Longer-Term Actions You Can Take to Protect Democracy
Engage with ESD Action Teams
ESD activism is manifested via several organized teams working at both national and state/local levels. During the national election years, our focus is on voter registration, getting out the vote, and countering voter suppression from those who are intent on destroying our democracy. During non-election years, our focus shifts to combating government corruption, fascism, and disinformation.
Partner with Local Community Groups
Long-term actions are often facilitated by groups or individuals like yourself working at the community level. Staging a local rally in support of immigrants. For such efforts, one big challenge is in finding others in the community who might join in. One promising alternative is to seek out your local Indivisible chapter, whose members are frequently active in a wide range of actions. Other local groups in your community may be found using the online app Mobilize, which provides a searchable list of community events by date, location, and action. Start by selecting Filters to take this path. Results should provide contact information for groups working in your local area.
Canvas Commercial District to Post Flyers in Store Windows
Many volunteers have been successful in canvassing their community’s commercial district, asking stores to post flyers in their store windows. Indivisible has launched such a program, and one can sign up and obtain flyers supporting immigrants here.
Stage Personal Rallies
Personal local rallies can be staged for a host of reasons. Still, you’ll generally need a local support group, a clear message of democracy, a suitable location, and signs/posters that effectively communicate that message. As noted above, Indivisible and Mobilize can be used to find local support. For location, try to find a street with wide sidewalks, moderate traffic, and a fair number of pedestrians. Generally, weekly farmers' markets are a great opportunity. For posters, reference actions on Mobilize for ‘poster making parties.’
Build or Join a “Sanctuary Community”
A “sanctuary” is a place of welcome, safety, and mutual care. Across the country, caring neighbors are coming together to support immigrants and others facing intimidation or hardship—offering friendship, protection, and a sense of belonging. You can be part of this circle of care by joining or helping to start a local sanctuary community through We Are Sanctuary Communities.
Demand City Council Resolutions
As a general rule, city council meetings start with an ‘open comments’ section when members of the community can make a brief statement. No council response is generally given, but it provides an opportunity to demand that an action be taken or a resolution be made. For example, city councils might be asked to affirm their support for free speech at street rallies and/or oppose the militarization of city streets, which would likely censor free expression (see example here).
Post & Distribute Pro-Democracy Flyers
In some commercial districts and at various public locations, we can post and distribute flyers that convey a pro-democracy message. These flyers should provide internet addresses or QR codes that readers can use to access a wealth of information. For example, this action toolkit might serve as such a flyer.
Write Letters to the Editor
Several organizations currently guide writing letters to the editor, including RepresentUs and Indivisible. Many local groups also support letter-writing campaigns, particularly focused on our public schools. Such LTE efforts, including letter content, can be found as actions documented by Mobilize.