From Barricades to Banned Books: The New Playbook for Community Protection

Thank goodness for these awesome American patriots!

As we find our bearings this week amidst the current political turbulence, the unwavering grassroots resistance is still a reliable compass. People are responding to local uncertainty and pouncing on any possibility they see around them to weaken Trump’s hold on their communities.

Their ingenuity and passion never fails to inspire me, and I’d like to share that with you.

So, without further ado, let’s get to it!

LA builds community protection in third spaces.

As Trump orchestrates an environment of isolation and distrust, Angelenos are doing just the opposite. This week, the L.A. Times ran an article highlighting three library spaces operated by people whose mission is to fill in civic gaps and foster a sort of subversive togetherness.

Their patrons are coming together to share resources, have conversations, and grow local protective actions for their neighbors. Food giveaways, self-defense classes, banned book readings, and block parties interweave their monthly schedules. And now, organizing against ICE abductions is an essential mainstay.

Chicago steps up civics, in practice and proactive education.

Neighbors are showing up for one another in incredible ways in the Albany Park neighborhood in Chicago. Just about one month ago, ICE agents tried to conduct a raid when two residents coming home from brunch sounded the alarm, knocking on doors and yelling warnings up and down the block. Residents flooded the streets in bathrobes and bare feet, dropping everything to come out, form barricades, and film masked agents. After more than a little force against civilians, ICE left.

Then, last week, two apartment buildings owned by and housing many Hispanic immigrants, went up in flames. Everything material was lost, including legal documentation for the people living there. Now, the city is stepping up to help displaced residents get back on their feet.

There is a GoFundMe and more information about how to help here.

At the same time some in Chicago are getting a hands-on lesson in everyday civic action, community leaders and organizations are inviting residents to connect and learn about it at a city-wide event.

The annual event called Chicago City Civics will take place on November 15th, and it promises to be uniquely relevant to the political climate hitting the Windy City now. Learn more here.

Creative Michiganders display corruption via Thanksgiving tables.

Last week, a cohort of activists set up a symbolic Thanksgiving table that showcased the misplaced priorities and loyalties of Michigan’s politicians. The exhibit, titled “Shamesgiving” features cardboard cutouts of elected leaders on one side of the table with abundant food, and skeletons sitting on the opposite “working-class” end, with a scanty share.

Creators say it is drumming up conversation about the current political and economic conditions in the state. They hope it will be one of many actions that puts pressure on those who support Trump to change course. See more here.

DC gatherings normalize communal resistance.

In the city surrounded by constant reminders of the Orange Menace, citizens are hosting events all over to foster solidarity against his always-offensive actions. One particularly cute embodiment of this effort was Rhizome DC’s poster-making get together last Saturday.

The group said in its announcement of the event:

“As ICE, federal law enforcement, and the National Guard continue their monthslong presence in DC, it’s important for us to remember that it’s up to us to keep each other and our neighbors safe.”

What does this spark in you?

It doesn’t take an act of Congress to make a difference. Everyday Americans are making waves that ripple far and wide, and anyone can do it.

Just like the patriots highlighted here, always remember your power. What possibility do you see where you live to bring people together to defend our democracy?

With love and hope for the future,

Stephanie

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What local action do you see making a difference in your neck of the woods?