The third action of the Women’s March 10 Actions in 100 Days is to generate “a wave of thousands of grassroots-led protests, actions, and meetings directly engaging members of congress during the President’s Day week.”
This call to action kicked off with a Tele-Town Hall conference call on Wednesday evening, February 15th. Moderator Jordan Brooks of the United State of Women introduced those calling in. Among those who joined were Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal of Washington, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, Senator Patty Murray of Washington, Cecile Richards of Planned Parenthood, Leah Greenberg of Indivisible, leaders of the United State of Women, Women’s March co-chairs Bob Bland and Carmen Perez, and lots of women and men interested in taking social action across the United States.
Leah Greenberg of Indivisible started the conversation by promoting a basic principle: “Trump’s agenda doesn’t depend on Donald Trump—it depends on whether your elected representatives support him or not in the years to come.” And to determine that, she emphasized the importance of local activism and local pressure, especially during this upcoming week when representatives are returning home for breaks.
The call started with some powerful remarks from notable leaders. Cecile Richards explained how eight years (and more) of progress is on the line currently. “Good news is [that]this activism and organizing is working,” she said. That is evident in the decision made by Congress to delay their efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
Congresswoman Jayapal stressed how the repeal of the Affordable Care Act would disproportionately burden women of color. Senator Gillibrand emphasized the importance of telling your story and communicating to Congress what the repeal of Affordable Care Act would mean for YOU.
Senator Gillibrand made an ask to those listening in on the call: this week, commit to taking one action to stop the repeal of the Affordable Care Act. She suggested calling your representative in the House or the Senate, going to District Members’ offices with friends, and/or sharing your story on social media. “Change only happens in Washington when regular people stand up and take action.”
Finally, the call ended with questions from concerned and motivated individuals from around the country. In the words of Senator Patty Murray, “It is important to remember this is a marathon, not a sprint.” So let’s keep showing up and let’s have our voices heard!
If you are willing and able to take up this call to action, find a town hall event near you, bring a friend, and post on social media.
Don’t forget to use #fordhamgss when posting!
Previous Actions
Madeleine Lee MSW Student
