Americans of Conscience Checklist: Week of June 26, 2018

By Jen Hofmann
This checklist features clear, well-researched actions for Americans who value democracy, equality, voting, and decency. We also practice gratitude, self-care, and celebration to stay engaged.
Click HERE for past checklists.

I value equality.

Stand with your rainbow of neighbors from every religion, race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, economic status, age, and ability. Out of many, we are one.

 

Action: Stand with people with pre-existing conditions.

Call: Your House rep, red or blue, and two senators (look up).

Script: Hi. I’m from [ZIP], calling about the Affordable Care Act. I oppose any effort to strip away protections for people with pre-existing conditions. The ACA ended this discrimination for 52 million Americans, but the current administration wants to bring it back. Please assure me that [name] wants to protect all their constituents from discrimination.

Action: Stand with seniors, families, and people with high medical expenses.

Call: Your two senators (look up).

Script: Hi. I’m from [ZIP] calling to express my concern about HUD’s continuing plan to explore rent hikes. This would put housing security at risk for already economically vulnerable people including seniors, families with children, and people with high medical expenses. I want my tax dollar to support my neighbors in need. I am asking [name] to defend our vulnerable citizens and oppose efforts to strip funding from this essential program.

Acts of Gratitude
Get out your stamps, postcards, and sparkle markers for some gratitude mail.

Thank “First Person,” PBS Digital Studios’ digital exploration of gender identity and sexuality, “What it’s like to be queer and undocumented.” I appreciate you telling these important stories. Thank you.

Address: Public Broadcasting Service, 2100 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202

 

Thank Rep. Joe Kennedy (D-MA) for spearheading the effort in Congress to debunk misinformation about transgender military service members. Your level-headed, science-based understanding of the medical needs of transgender persons honors the patriotism and sacrifice of all who serve. Thank you.

Address: 29 Crafts Street, Suite 375, Newton, MA 02458

-Submitted by Judy Sullivan, USH Social Justice Chair