Dear Activists,
Like many of you, I’m still reeling from the latest mass shooting. We need more from our elected officials than thoughts and prayers. There have been 45 mass shootings since 2011. They’ve happened in schools, offices, supermarkets, churches, airports, movie theatres, cafes, and car washes. Any elected official who values their NRA contributions more than the lives of their constituents should be voted out.
– Ravi
AROUND THE STATE
On the 50th anniversary of the Memphis sanitation workers strike, the Fight for $15 announced it would be joining with the new Poor People’s Campaign to fight for strong unions and an end to racism and poverty wages. Our chapters in Capital District and Rochester joined local workers for this major announcement.
Albany, NY (State Capitol)
Rochester, NY
Citizen Action and Black Lives Matter of Greater NY held a march to demand justice for Andrew Kearse, a Bronx man who died in police custody in Schenectady. Kearse was denied medical assistance after telling the officers, “I can’t breathe.”
THIS WEEK IN ACTIVISM HISTORY
On February 11th, 1990, Nelson Mandela was freed after serving 27 years in prison for organizing against apartheid in South Africa. He spent the first 18 years of his sentence in Robben Island Prison, where he was confined to a small cell without a bed. He was only allowed to meet with a visitor once a year and mail a letter once every six months.
UPCOMING EVENTS
New York City – Tuesday, February 20th at 5 pm – The Revolution Will Be Localized: The Campaign for Bail Reform – Learn about the campaign to close Rikers Island and other justice reforms advocates are fighting for. RSVP on Facebook
Kingston – Wednesday, February 21st at 3:30 pm – Press Conference Following Police Commission Meeting – A press conference in support of Kingston residents who have been victims of excessive force at the hands of KPD. RSVP on Facebook
Rochester – Wednesday, February 21st at 6 pm – Solar Sip & Sun – A fundraiser in support of Metro Justice. For each solar signup, a donation will be made to Metro Justice. RSVP on Facebook
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