Weekly Steps of Activism

Experiencing Donald Trump as President of the United States has been a scary and horrific thing for many of us. He and his cabinet, full of unqualified and unsuitable candidates, threaten civil rights, voter rights, climate control, health care, public education, social security, the first amendment, foreign relations, free press, and the values of most good and decent people everywhere. We must resist his actions to destroy the fabric of democracy and the security of our citizens. In an effort to do that, each week I share some acts of resistance and steps of activism you can take. Here are this week’s:

Call your senators and urge them to vote “no” on Neil Gorsuch for Supreme Court justice. “Neil Gorsuch has proven himself repeatedly to be anti-labor and pro-corporate interests. He has close ties to, and support from, the Federalist Society and Heritage Action for America, both Koch-funded, pro-corporate, deeply conservative organizations. Further, Gorsuch’s record shows a strong tendency to fight for businesses over individuals. His appelate court record shows him siding with insurance companies seeking to deny disability benefits, with employers wanting to cut pension benefits, and with employers defending against payment of employment discrimination claims.”

Here are sample scripts, dependent on your senator’s party:

What to Say to Democrats

I’m [NAME], a constituent. I’m calling to let [Senator’s NAME] know that I want Democrats to block Judge Gorsuch’s nomination by any means necessary, including supporting a filibuster.

What to Say to Republicans, Option 1

I’m [NAME], a constituent. I’m calling to let [Senator’s NAME] know that I strongly oppose the use of the so-called “nuclear” option to end a potential filibuster on the Gorsuch confirmation vote. Filibuster is an essential function of checks and balances, and it would set a dangerous precedent to do away with a requirement for bipartisan consensus on Supreme Court confirmations.

What to Say to Republicans, Option 2

I’m [NAME], a constituent. I’m calling to let [Senator’s NAME] know that I do not support Neil Gorsuch’s nomination. I’m concerned that Gorsuch is a Constitutional originalist with radical views on issues like gun rights, reproductive freedom, and environmental protections. His ultra-conservative ideals do not reflect the views of the majority of Americans.

Also: April 15th, coming up in less than two weeks, is Tax Day and there are marches planned all over the country to urge Trump to release his tax returns and show again just how big the resistance is. Find a march in your area here and go!