Stop warrantless civil arrests
The House Judiciary barely approved S209 (No civil arrest in sensitive locations) and sent it to the floor for a vote. This bill would prevent ICE (and other law enforcement agencies) from arresting folks without a criminal warrant in hospitals, clinics, schools, polling places, social service centers, and places of worship. Vermonters should not be afraid to go to the doctor or the food pantry or school. It looks like the House will need a little push to do the right thing, so call the Sergeant-at-Arms (802-828-2228) and leave a message for your rep. They'll ask your name and town. Tell them to to vote YES on S209 - No civil arrests in sensitive locations. Don't know your rep? Ask the Sergeant or look here.
May membership meeting report
We talked about the big win in the legislature - H849 allowing Vermonters to sue law enforcement officers who violate the constitution will become law on July 1! If ICE abuses you, you will be able to sue for damages in state court. This is a novel legal strategy to gain some leverage in the ongoing battle for civil rights and a big win for our lobbying efforts! Congratulations and thanks to all who called and wrote - it worked!
We also did some brainstorming and wrote down a bunch of ideas for future activities, but did not discuss them in any detail. Stay tuned!
Our next meeting will be Monday June 1 in the New North End. Details coming soon.
ICE out Protest & Rally
Friday, May 8 | noon
Taylor Park | 36 N Main, St. Albans
We've joined up with the ICE Out Vermont Alliance to sponsor an action to pressure ICE to change their practices. Look for us at the rally.
Save the date for Story Slam!
Thursday, May 28 | 6:30 - 8:30 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)
Main Street Landing | 60 Lake St, Burlington
Back by popular demand, save the date for our 2nd Story Slam, hosted by Sue Schmidt, the evening of Thursday, May 28 at Main Street Landing. The story theme is, "The Long Haul." Bake Sale proceeds to benefit Migrant Justice. Come for the stories and the cookies and to fortify your resolve for Democracy! Ticket information coming soon.
Lean Left Phonebanking
Every Sunday | 4:00-6:00 PM
From your computer
Yahoo! Virginia redistricting wins! 51 to 49 percent. Kudos to our postcarders and phone bankers who helped make this happen! This is a clear example that these efforts work in close contests. We were part of a team that made over 1,000,000 calls! Critical midterm elections are approaching and many elections are won by tiny margins. Phone banking is one of the most effective actions we can take. The goal is helping folks register and vote - not pushing specific candidates. All you need is your computer. Training provided. Register here.
“The humanity of all Americans is diminished when any group is denied rights that others enjoy.” — Julian Bond
