Dear Activists,
I’ve spent the last day angry at the NFL’s new policy forcing players to stand for the national anthem. This is another way racism is manifesting itself in the Trump era. Billionaire owners and NFL executives want to profit off Black and Brown athletes while stifling their voices. We reject this new rule and hope that fans will stand up for the players and their right to protest everyday injustices.
– Ravi
AROUND THE STATE
Health care advocates in Rochester held a community town hall to bring attention to the New York Health Act. A panel of doctors, patients, and elected officials made the case for a single-payer system. The Health Act has passed the Assembly three consecutive years and is one sponsor short of a majority in the Senate.
Long Island Progressive Coalition, Make the Road New York, and other community allies protested Trump’s visit to Bethpage. Education organizer Blanca Villanueva called out Trump’s racist agenda and demanded real solutions to the problems facing Long Island residents.
Our Hudson Valley chapter held a town hall event with Lieutenant Governor candidate Jumaane Williams at John L. Edwards Elementary School.
THIS WEEK IN ACTIVISM HISTORY
On May 22nd, 1930, gay rights activist Harvey Milk was born. Milk became the first openly gay official in the state of California when he was elected in 1977. During his tenure on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, he helped to pass one of the strongest civil rights bills in the country, outlawing discrimination based on sexual orientation. Milk and Mayor George Moscone were assassinated in 1978 by another member of the Board.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Binghamton – Sunday, May 27th at 12 pm – Community Building Canvass and DJ Dance Party – Knock on doors and talk to voters, then circle back for a dance party at 3 pm. RSVP on Facebook
Albany – Tuesday, May 29th at 6:30 pm – Paid Sick Days Public Hearing – Show your support for paid sick days for Albany County workers. RSVP on Facebook
Rochester – Tuesday, May 29th at 7:30 pm – The Murder of Fred Hampton – Documentary on the murder of Black Panther leader Fred Hampton. RSVP on Facebook
Albany – Thursday, May 31st at 6 pm – Nixon & Williams Campaign Kickoff – Learn about these exciting candidates and help them get on the ballot. RSVP on Facebook
Utica – Thursday, May 31st at 6 pm – Energy 101: How We Can Transform Our Energy System – An introduction to our energy system and what it would take to change it. RSVP on Facebook
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