Week of January 22nd

Monday, January 30th  6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting
With the start of the VA General Assembly’s 2023 Legislative Session, there will be a lot to discuss! Along with Special Elections, WofA’s New Primary Endorsement Policy, Guest speakers Holly Hazard from 4 PublicEducation & Pat Hynes from Stand and Deliver VA will educate you on the issues facing us currently: public vs.charter, policies about gender, prohibition of transgender youth from playing sports, and banned books to name a few.
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89663258227

Updated Calls to Action

Updated!!! Contact Your Senator – Vote YES on Safe Storage SB1139: Take Action This Weekend
-Firearms recently became the number one cause of death for children in the United States, surpassing motor vehicle deaths and those caused by other injuries.
-Safe storage practices can help to keep children safe, deter gun theft, and avoid preventable gun-related deaths and injuries. 
-Those who store their firearms locked or unloaded, or both, were less likely to commit suicide by firearms. Click Here to Take Action Questions: Kathleen Murray, kamwjm@gmail.com

Call to Action: Stop Open Carry of Assault Firearms in Public Areas: Take Action This Weekend
Ask select members of the VA Senate to Vote YES on SB1192.
Mass public shooting injuries and death were significantly reduced when the Federal Assault Weapons Ban was in place between 1994-2004. Tell your VA Senator to prioritize public safety by stopping the open carry of assault firearms in public areas. Click Here to Take Action Questions: Contact Joanne Collins, jcpalmer030@gmail.com

CALL TO ACTION – Stand-Up for the 4th Amendment & Against Race-Based Policing: Take Action This Weekend
Protect evidence-informed criminal justice reform progress. Tell Members of the Senate Judiciary Committee to strongly oppose SB 875 and SB 1010 that seek to weaken 4th Amendment protections against arbitrary and often race-based police pretextual stops. Click Here to Take Action Questions: Contact Kelly Haywood, mskhaywood@gmail.com

CRITICAL 1-Click Email CTA. It’s not too late to Stop Dominion’s Unconscionable Revenue Grab: Deadline Sun., Jan. 29  
NOTE:  Hearing postponed and CTA glitch has been fixed! Click here for Combined CTA to ask the full Senate Com. & Labor Committee to protect consumers AND Climate and Clean Energy Laws (both bills headed to full Commerce and Labor Committee, not yet scheduled on the docket):(1) VOTE YES for the Affordable Energy Act (SB1321, McClellan), to restore SCC oversight authority to lower utility rates when Virginians will be overcharged. Since 2009, Dominion has overcharged us by over $1.9 BILLION – and there is nothing the SCC can do about it. This bill fixes that.
(2) VOTE NO for Dominion’s so-called retail competitiveness bill (SB1265, Saslaw) that seeks to substantially increase guaranteed profit margin to please Wall Street investors, retain special cost riders and keep a huge chunk of customer overcharges. This bill will raise costs to all Virginians and fuels the false narrative proffered by Dominion and Republicans that the rise in costs result from climate legislation – the VCEA and RGGI.
Questions:  Contact Sharon Shutler, shutlersharon@gmail.com

URGENT 1-Click Email CTA on Mega-Data Center Mega-Problem: Deadline Sun., Jan. 29  
Click here for CTA. Data centers are taking over vast swathes of northern Virginia without any state limits or guidance. In fact, Va. offers tax incentives encouraging this growth, and Gov. Youngkin and Amazon have recently announced a massive $35 billion investment in new mega-data centers, with huge tax breaks to Amazon. These centers use massive amounts of energy and water without creating job. Sen. Petersen’s SB 1078 prohibits the siting of data centers within one mile of a national park, e.g. Manassas Battlefield, while his SJ 240 asks the Assembly to study this issue and come up with reasonable limits on this development. Sen. Petersen & Del. Roem explainer is here. Questions: Contact Meredith Haines, mhainesva@gmail.com, and Amy Bergner, abbergner@gmail.com

Public Education: CALLS TO ACTION – Take Action This Weekend
• Increase compensation of school employees – One Click Action
• Diversion of school funds – One Click Action
Questions: Contact Marianne Burke, marianne.vagrassrootscoalition@gmail.com

Week of January 15th

2023 Virginia General Assembly is Now In Session!
With the General Assembly now in session, please keep your eye out for upcoming Calls to Action (CTA’s). Although the General Assembly is very divided, with your action we WILL see the passage of “Good Bills”! What’s Up WofA will be publishing current CTA’s (bottom of page) For up to the minute updates on current legislation and Calls to Action, please see the Virginia Grassroots Coalition 2023 Priority Legislation Here 

Wednesday, January 18th, 7pm
BigMoneyOutVA  Advocacy Training 
Heidi Drauschak will provide an overview of the General Assembly, how it works, key dates to follow, as well as best practices when engaging with legislators (in-person and virtually). Register HERE.

Wednesdays, January 18 – February 15th, 3:00-5:00pm
Phonebank for CD4 Special Election (Jennifer McClellan)
We are calling Black voters in Virginia’s 4th Congressional District for the Special Election on February 21st. Register Here

Wednesdays, January 18th – Feb 1, 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Better Framed Democratic messages!
Please join the Central Communications Committee (C3) of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee for a series of three Zoom workshops aimed at the practice (with a little theory for context) of framing better Democratic messages. The program is based on the teachings of George Lakoff, author of the “The Little Blue Book: The Essential Guide to Thinking and Talking Democratic”. Sign Up Here: https://www.mobilize.us/fairfaxdems/event/545753/

Thursday, January 19th, 6:30pm
January Climate Action Call
Join us to learn about our fight in Virginia against Mountain Valley Pipeline and the fossil fuel industry. This action hour will be led by David Washington our VA Organizing Manager and Freeda Cathcart, Mothers Out Front Roanoke Team Leader. We will discuss the facts behind MVP, and how you can make a difference virtually or in person all in under an hour! RSVP here

Thursday, January 19, 7pm
BigMoneyOutVA  Advocacy Training 
Nancy Morgan will discuss key campaign finance legislations introduced this year, the key legislative players and committees involved, and an overview of the LIS portal (used to monitor the status of bills). Register here.

Thursday, January 19, 6:30 PM
Write letters for affordable energy!
During the 2023 General Assembly, legislators will consider bills that could make electric bills more affordable and stop water and power shutoffs for unpaid bills during crisis or dangerous weather conditions. You can help make sure these bills get a fair shot by writing a Letter-to-the-Editor (LTE) to your local paper on these important issues! New to writing an LTE? Join us to learn how to publish a letter in your local paper on this topic. LTEs are an impactful way to educate community members AND show legislators that you care about these issues.  This event is organized by Appalachian Voices, Clean Virginia, Virginia Interfaith Power & Light and Virginia Organizing. Register for the Zoom here: https://us02web.zoom.us/…/tZMpdemvpjoiHdcJ-O5…

Friday, January 20th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Monday, January 23rd
Virginia Reproductive Equity Alliance Advocacy Day
Join us to lobby your legislators, be recognized as spectators in the General Assembly, learn from our reproductive justice partners about how abortion advocacy goes beyond the legislative session, and connect with a community of pro-abortion advocates and supporters. RSVP here

Tuesday, January 24th
Democracy Day Rally in Richmond
More info and RSVP here

Thursday, January 26th, 9:00am – 1:30pm
Energy Burden Coalition Day of Action for Affordable Energy Registration
In person in Richmond with Virtual lobby training on Wed 25th. Transportation assistance and lunch. More info and RSVP here

Sunday, January 29, 2023, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
The Janes Repro Rights Program, featuring Heather Booth
Discuss The Janes with Heather Booth and Rabbi Hannah Goldstein.  The Janes details first-hand accounts from the women who helped 11,000 women obtain abortions prior to Roe v. Wade. RSVP: HERE

Monday, January 30th  6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting  
With the start of the VA General Assembly’s 2023 Legislative Session, there will be a lot to discuss! Along with Special Elections, WofA’s New Primary Endorsement Policy, Guest speakers Holly Hazard from 4 PublicEducation & Pat Hynes from Stand and Deliver VA will educate you on the issues facing us currently: public vs.charter, policies about gender, prohibition of transgender youth from playing sports, and banned books to name a few. (Complete Zoom details at bottom of page)
Zoom Link to join meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89663258227 ID: 896 6325 8227

Wednesday, February 15, 5:30pm
Virginia Redress Network’s Monthly Meeting
Learn what progress Virginians are making on restitution and the many issues relating to racial and social justice. RSVP HERE

WofA Business

WofA Membership Meetings Change – New Dates! 
So as not to conflict with NAACP and other organizations, WOFA has moved our monthly membership meeting to the 4th Monday of every month.

NEW!!! WofA’s Primary Endorsement Policy
WofA’s executive committee has decided to introduce a new policy and process regarding WofA endorsements for primary candidates in 2023.  In the past WofA has not endorsed primary candidates because we have not wanted to divide the membership.  Instead, our members as individuals have supported candidates in primaries, and endorsements by WofA as a group have been restricted to general elections.  However, primary competitions have become very important,  particularly in light of the recent redistricting which will pit several Democratic candidates against each other. Please see complete document for further details, HERE

Important Actions & Calls to Action

Support Jennifer McClellan for Congress!
Take action HERE

Money Out
Please send a message right now to key members of the legislative committees who will be reviewing common sense campaign finance reform bills next week.  Use our letter writing tool to make a statement about the importance of getting big money out of politics.  Just click here and in one minute send a message to key legislators All of our voices together can make a difference and the time is NOW! Click Here to Take Action

More CTA’s: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/legislation-VA-2023.php

Week of January 8th

Thursday, January 12th, 7:30-8:30pm
Troublemaker Training: How To Be A Media Rockstar!
You are making waves and bringing change to your community — are you ready to up your game? It’s time to become a media rockstar! How do you build relationships with reporters, successfully navigate interviews and bring attention to your efforts? Join Red, Wine and Blue to learn what you need to know about interacting with the media. RSVP here

Thursday, January 12th, 8:00pm
Virginia Special Election Briefing – Center for Common Ground
Due to the sudden death of Congressman McEachin, Virginia’s 4th Congressional District is holding a special election on February 21st. We have just launched campaigns to turn out voters for this historic election; it could be Virginia’s chance to send its first Black woman to Congress. Join us this Thursday to learn more about this critical election. RSVP here

Friday, January 13, 12:00pm
Press Conference with Personality
The Virginia Grassroots Coalition will invite priority bill sponsors to share the importance of their legislation and discuss strategy for the 2023 legislative session. RSVP here

Monday, January 16 2:00pm – 5:00pm
30^th annual MLK Vigil & Advocacy Day for Gun Violence Awareness
Please join fellow GVP advocates on Monday, January 16, for the in Richmond, Virginia from 2:00-5:00 p.m.  The vigil will take place at the Bell Tower on the Capitol Grounds from 2:00-3:00 pm and then we will all head inside the Pocahontas building to advocate for good bills and against bad ones from 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Bus Details
There are several buses heading to Richmond from around Virginia.  Check the scheduled arrival time and you may decide you want to pack a lunch rather than go to a restaurant when you arrive in Richmond.  It might also be a good idea to bring snacks for the bus ride home.
From Charlottesville:  For information on the bus from Charlottesville and to sign-up please click here:  http://evite.me/DUfpPfTc93
From Hampton Roads:  For information on the Hampton Roads buses (2), please contact Kaye Tice at kaye.tice@gmail.com 
From Northern Virginia:  For information on the bus leaving from the Occoquan commuter lot off 95 and to sign-up, please click here:  https://www.mobilize.us/brady/event/546275/
From Roanoke: For information on the bus from Roanoke, please contact Catherine Koebel at cmkoeb@gmail.com  

January 19th, 6:30pm
January Climate Action Call
Join us to learn about our fight in Virginia against Mountain Valley Pipeline and the fossil fuel industry. This action hour will be led by David Washington our VA Organizing Manager and Freeda Cathcart, Mothers Out Front Roanoke Team Leader. We will discuss the facts behind MVP, and how you can make a difference virtually or in person all in under an hour! RSVP here

Monday, January 23rd
Virginia Reproductive Equity Alliance Advocacy Day
Join us to lobby your legislators, be recognized as spectators in the General Assembly, learn from our reproductive justice partners about how abortion advocacy goes beyond the legislative session, and connect with a community of pro-abortion advocates and supporters. RSVP here

Tuesday, January 24th
Democracy Day Rally in Richmond
More info and RSVP here

Thursday, January 26th, 9:00am – 1:30pm
Energy Burden Coalition Day of Action for Affordable Energy Registration
In person in Richmond with Virtual lobby training on Wed 25th. Transportation assistance and lunch. More info and RSVP here

Monday, January 30th  6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting
Details to follow!

Wednesday, January 18th 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Better Framed Democratic messages!
Please join the Central Communications Committee (C3) of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee for a series of three Zoom workshops aimed at the practice (with a little theory for context) of framing better Democratic messages. The program is based on the teachings of George Lakoff, author of the “The Little Blue Book: The Essential Guide to Thinking and Talking Democratic”.
Sign Up Here: https://www.mobilize.us/fairfaxdems/event/545753/

Week of January 1st

Thursday- January 5th – 7:00-8:00 pm
Training & Prep Zoom Call with Aaron Rouse Campaign Field Director for Special Election Canvassing Weekend 
Join Aaron Rouse Campaign’s Field Director for a training and preparation meeting for the VA State Senate Special Election canvassing weekend in Virginia Beach.  Learn about the most important issues to voters in this area, get the latest updates on the campaign & more – all you need to make your canvassing most efficient! Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83445691347?pwd=bS8xcUZiWHV4QlZsei85OENvOW9ndz09
Meeting ID: 834 4569 1347 – Passcode: 876954
One tap mobile    +16469313860,,83445691347# US

Friday, January 6, 12:00pm
Fired Up PINK & Ready to Win in 2023
RSVP here

Saturday – Sunday January 7th & 8th
Canvassing Weekend – Aaron Rouse for Virginia Senate – Special Election 
Join Virginia Grassroots Coalition volunteers heading down to Virginia Beach on Jan. 7-8, 2023 to flip a critical Virginia Senate seat which is highly winnable. This Jan 10 special election could well make the difference on whether we retain or lose women’s right to choose in Virginia in the upcoming legislative session! Read here for the many reasons why this special election is SO CRITICAL!   Ultra-high-impact canvassing on the weekend right before the election in under-the-radar race where few voters will show up! Aaron Rouse is a fantastic candidate!  He has the experience having been on the Virginia Beach City Council for many years;  he has the name and the popularity as he is a former NFL football star;  he has local community support big time – and he would bring more diversity to the Virginia Senate which still needs so much of! We will canvass out of her Dems Virginia Beach Headquarters on Jan 7-8.  Senate District 7 includes a small section of Norfolk and the Western part of Virginia Beach, approx. 3.5-hour drive from DC.  Free volunteer housing is available, as well as carpools.  More information, contact Chris LeMenestrel at cslemenestrel@gmail.com. All information about hotel group rates and dinner HERE. SIGN UP HERE

Saturday, January 7th, 1:00pm – 2:30pm
Coastal Community Meeting
Virginia LCV in partnership with BlueGreen Alliance, Common Defense and Climate Action VA will be hosting a live community discussion in the Hampton Roads area to discuss regional issues and how federal investments in climate can benefit the community. This event will serve as an opportunity to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and other federal legislation, educate the public on federal climate investments, and amplify local perspectives and resident concerns on climate action. More info and RSVP here

Saturday, January 7th, 5:00pm
Campaign Kickoff for Adele McClure
Join us to meet Adele McClure, who is running for the new VA House District 2 in Arlington. Reconnect with your Arlington neighbors and hear how Adele plans to represent us in the coming years. Special Guests include: Congressman Don Beyer, House Leader Don Scott, Senator Barbara Favola, Delegate Patrick Hope and County Board Member Matt de Ferranti. RSVP here

Monday, January 16th , 2:00pm – 5:00pm
30th Anniversary – MLK Vigil and Advocacy Day for Gun Violence Awareness
Please join us on Monday, January 16, for the 30^th annual MLK Vigil & Advocacy Day for Gun Violence Awareness in Richmond, Virginia from 2:00-5:00 p.m.  The vigil will take place at the Bell Tower on the Capitol Grounds from 2:00-3:00 pm and then we will all head inside the Pocahontas building to advocate for good bills and against bad ones from 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Bus Details
There are several buses heading to Richmond from around Virginia.  Check the scheduled arrival time and you may decide you want to pack a lunch rather than go to a restaurant when you arrive in Richmond.  It might also be a good idea to bring snacks for the bus ride home.
From Charlottesville:  For information on the bus from Charlottesville and to sign-up please click here:  http://evite.me/DUfpPfTc93
From Hampton Roads:  For information on the Hampton Roads buses (2), please contact Kaye Tice at kaye.tice@gmail.com 
From Northern Virginia:  For information on the bus leaving from the Occoquan commuter lot off 95 and to sign-up, please click here:  https://www.mobilize.us/brady/event/546275/

New WofA Policy on Primary Endorsements
WofA’s executive committee has decided to introduce a new policy and process regarding WofA endorsements for primary candidates in 2023.  In the past WofA has not endorsed primary candidates because we have not wanted to divide the membership.  Instead, our members as individuals have supported candidates in primaries, and endorsements by WofA as a group have been restricted to general elections.  However, primary competitions have become very important,  particularly in light of the recent redistricting which will pit several Democratic candidates against each other.  For a more in depth explanation, please see HERE .

Monday, January 9th, 7:30pm
Culture Wars and Weaponization of Critical Race Theory
Former VA Secretary of Education Atif Qarni will explain the origins and historical context of Critical Race Theory (CRT), how the CRT discourse was shaped over the last 2 years, and how the CRT debate influences education. Sponsored by 4 Public Education, NAACP Fairfax, and the Hamkae Center. Please register to get the zoom link. https://www.4publiceducation.org/events
Also please consider addressing this call to action: https://hamkaecenter.org/historysol/

Friday, January 13, 12:00pm
Press Conference with Personality
The Virginia Grassroots Coalition will invite priority bill sponsors to share the importance of their legislation and discuss strategy for the 2023 legislative session. RSVP here

Tuesday, January 24th
Democracy Day in Richmond
More Info & RSVP Here: https://www.vademocracyday.com

Thursday, January 26th, 9:00am – 1:30pm
Energy Burden Coalition Day of Action for Affordable Energy Registration
In person in Richmond with Virtual lobby training on Wed 25th. Transportation assistance and lunch. More info and RSVP here

Monday, January 30th  6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting
Details to follow!

Additional Opportunities for Primaries:

Support Candidate Holly Seibold – HD35! 
Sign up on Holly’s website to volunteer to help the campaign: https://www.hollyseibold.com/volunteer.html
Canvassing opportunities on the weekends
Tuesday and Thursday phonebanks
Voting locations
Donate – https://secure.actblue.com/donate/hollyseibold

Support Candidate Jade Harris – HD24!
January 8, 2-4pm – Join Team McClellan as we make calls into the Shenandoah Valley to support Jade Harris’ historic campaign for delegate in HD24. An organizer and advocate, Jade Harris serves her community as Vice Mayor of Glasgow, Virginia.  Let’s show up for rural Democrats and help send Jade to Richmond! RSVP here
Donate – https://secure.actblue.com/donate/harris4va
Interview with the candidate, https://www.jadeharrisva.com/ 

New Policy on Primary Candidate Endorsements

Dear Members of WofA,
WofA’s executive committee has decided to introduce a new policy and process regarding WofA endorsements for primary candidates in 2023.  In the past WofA has not endorsed primary candidates because we have not wanted to divide the membership.  Instead, our members as individuals have supported candidates in primaries, and endorsements by WofA as a group have been restricted to general elections.  However, primary competitions have become very important,  particularly in light of the recent redistricting which will pit several Democratic candidates against each other.  

Our new policy regarding endorsements by WofA is driven by several considerations:  

• WofA endorsements are driven by the actions and passions of individual members.  Accordingly WofA will only endorse candidates who will be receiving significant support in the form of time and/or funding from individual WofA members (other than the candidates themselves).  Those proposing endorsement should have a track record of past action and/or participation as a WofA member.  
• The focus of endorsement should be meaningful action, not a group name on a list.  We envision that the number of endorsements will be limited.  Consistent with past WofA endorsements in general election races, a WofA endorsement will mean that the person who requested the endorsement can mobilize volunteers as a WofA group.  Due to WofA’s 501(c)4  status, any fundraising activities will be referred to as “Friends of WofA” and not “WofA” or “We of Action”.   Please note that proposals for endorsement should not be made with an assumption that the WofA executive committee members will take any lead in support. Those who propose endorsement will need to take responsibility for leading WofA efforts regarding the endorsed candidate.  
• The WofA executive committee wants to avoid divisiveness within its membership.  Accordingly, if WofA members are planning on providing significant support to two or more competing candidates in a primary, WofA will not endorse a candidate in that race, but rather encourage WofA members instead to provide such support as individuals.  
• WofA will focus time and effort on direct support to candidates, rather than on a time-consuming decision-making process regarding endorsements.  We want to maintain a “light touch” on the endorsement process and avoid bureaucracy or elaborate formalities. Accordingly, WofA members can propose candidates for endorsement by submitting this google form, based on their own plans and commitments for supporting these candidates. After vetting the proposal, the Executive Committee may publicize the proposed endorsement through What’s Up WofA, with a 10 day deadline for feedback.  The WofA executive committee will make the final decision regarding the endorsement after taking into account any feedback, including proposals to support another candidate in that race, and publicize its decision in What’s Up WofA.  

WofA positions will remain nimble.  We will start with a January 14th deadline for initial proposals from members for endorsements, and then repeat the process as needed no more than once a month. 
We look forward to seeing you in 2023!
Sincerely,
WofA Executive Committee
Micaela Pond
Jessica Mott
Nancy Broff
Amy Bergner
Eden Brown
Julie Hanson
Rose Fabia
Kathleen Murray

Week of December 11th

…
VIP – Special Elections & More Special Elections!!

Support Candidate Aaron Rouse – SD7! 

• Canvassing January 7-8th – Sign up Here for the Grassroots Canvassing GOTV Weekend
• Canvassing opportunities EVERY weekend
• Daily Phonebanks
• Postcards – Sign up here: postcards4va.com 
• Sign up for one-on-one meeting with Field Director, Tonianne Beals: https://calendly.com/tateamrouse/30min, 917-921-8099
• Donate – https://secure.actblue.com/donate/rouseforsenate

Support Candidate Holly Seibold – HD35! 

• Sign up on Holly’s website to volunteer to help the campaign: https://www.hollyseibold.com/volunteer.html
• Canvassing opportunities on the weekends
• Wine Wednesday Phonebanks, Tuesday and Thursday phonebanks
• Postcards – Sign up here: postcards4va.com 
• Donate – https://secure.actblue.com/donate/hollyseibold

Interested in strategizing about the Special Elections?  Sign up to meet on December 18th at 2pm.  Email Jim McBride with agenda items and questions: jimmcbride13@gmail.com

Up to the Minute Calls to Action and Election Information 
If  you have questions about the upcoming special elections or calls to action, please check out the Virginia Grassroots Coalition’s website – there is a trove of information and one click calls to action! https://www.virginiagrassroots.org

Thursday, December 15 – 6:30 PM – Arlington
Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia (PPAV) Holiday House Party
Please join Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia (PPAV) for our holiday house party fundraiser in Arlington! Enjoy holiday cheer, provided food and drink, and great company to help support PPAV’s organizing efforts in the Commonwealth. At the home of Home of Matt de Ferranti and Brooke Tansill de Ferranti. Special Guests: Congressman Don Beyer, Delegate Hope, & Delegate Lopez
RSVP Here: https://www.weareplannedparenthoodaction.org/a/arlington-holiday-house-party

Thursday, December 15th, 4:00pm
Virtual Education Caucus with Delegate Kaye Kory
I have been hearing from many constituents with grave concerns about the current state-mandated assessments/tests for elementary and middle school students. Join me to share your thoughts.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89321612354?pwd=a0FkSk1TYzZMQmYxem1Wa3pRSHcxQT09 

Friday, December 16th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch – RSVP here

Monday, December 19th, 7:00pm
Climate & Clean Energy Working Group virtual meeting – Guest Speaker, Sen. Chap Petersen.
Mark your calendars for the next meeting of the Climate & Clean Energy Working Group. Our guest speaker will be Senator Chap Petersen (D-Fairfax), Chair of the Senate Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources Committee. Sen. Petersen has years of experience in climate and clean energy policy and law, and under his leadership, the Committee has thwarted attempts to undermine some of Virginia’s key climate and clean energy laws. He’ll share his views on the upcoming session, including some new proposals he’s considering.  

Register here (zoom link will be provided upon registration)

Monday, January 9th, 7:30pm
Culture Wars and Weaponization of Critical Race Theory
Former VA Secretary of Education Atif Qarni will explain the origins and historical context of Critical Race Theory (CRT), how the CRT discourse was shaped over the last 2 years, and how the CRT debate influences education. Sponsored by 4 Public Education, NAACP Fairfax, and the Hamkae Center. 
Please register to get the zoom link. https://www.4publiceducation.org/events
Also please consider addressing this call to action: https://hamkaecenter.org/historysol/

Monday, Jan 16, 2-5 PM
Honor MLK
Please plan to join the Virginia Center for Public Safety, its partners, and the Virginia Community as we honor the memory and teachings of a great civil rights leader who was killed by gunfire.  We will also honor the lives of all Virginians killed by gun violence and we invite you to commit to reducing gun violence by raising your voice for responsible gun laws. From 2-3 pm, there will be a vigil at the Bell Tower on the Capitol Grounds and from 3-5 pm we will advocate for better gun laws by speaking with legislators in the Pocahontas Building. A flyer is attached. Please share this with your community and faith groups.  Also attached is a sign-up flyer for a bus to Richmond from Charlottesville. More details including information on buses from Roanoke, Hampton Roads, and NoVA, will come in a later announcement

CALLS TO ACTION

CALL TO ACTION: Sign Petition in Support Teaching the Truth in Virginia History Classes
Please support the teaching of complete and true history and social science in Virginia’s elementary and secondary schools by supporting the History and Social Science Standards of Learning and Curriculum presented to the Virginia Board of Education in August 2022. Details of the issue can be found in the petition linked here. Please consider signing it. https://chng.it/h7w4tDtKgp.  Contact Marianne with any questions, marianne.vagrassrootscoalition@gmail.com

CALL TO ACTION: Stop Manchin’s Dirty Deal – ASAP
Manchin is now trying to amend must pass legislation with the “Building American Energy Security Act” that would gut environmental protections and push through harmful fossil fuel projects. 
Call your Senators at (888) 997-5380  
Call your House Member: (917) 791-2257
Use this easy portal to send an email to your members of congress https://tinyurl.com/WriteCongress1222
Please share this social media post to encourage others to join you:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0wUBjD3BUtUnHdteXyrvX28QLUJgmTyYPhN3q7LXT6XRgT7pnNTf924CGHTFMmbpXl&id=100064705657225&mibextid=Nif5oz#=
Questions: Contact Freeda Cathcart, contactfreeda@gmail.com

What’s Up WofA will be back at the start of 2023 – until then, have a Peaceful & Healthy Holiday Season!

Week of December 4th

Wednesday, December 7th  6:00pm – 7:00pm
So You Want to Run for School Board – Training
Join the National Democratic Training Committee on Wednesday, December 7th for a special So You Want to Run for Office all about running in a school board race. More info and sign-up at the NDTC.

Wednesday, December 7th, 6:30pm
RASR Presents Racial Equity & Justice in Emerging Marijuana Industry in VA
RASR Presents a discussion on marijuana and how it impacts the minority communities, to include legalization, growing, and the impact on minority communities. Our guests include Virginia State Senator Adam Ebbin, who has advocated for the decentralization and legalization of marijuana for many years and has also proposed legislative changes; JM Pedini, Development Director of NORML and continues to work on establishing a fair and equitable adult-use cannabis regulatory structure prioritizing consumer safety; and Paul McLean, Executive Director for the Virginia Minority Cannabis Coalition working to achieve social equity through economic development. RSVP here

Sunday December 11th, 7am – 5pm
Canvass for Aaron Rouse SD7 in VA Beach – VIP Special Election!
Senate Democratic Campaign Chairman Senator Scott Surovell is procuring a bus to transport canvassers to and from Virginia Beach on Sunday, December 11, 2022 to canvass for Aaron Rouse who is a candidate for the 7th Senate District in a special election on January 10, 2023. Breakfast and dinner will be provided. Please sign up to commit to come so we can make arrangements. At this time, we hope to leave around 7 am and leave Virginia Beach around 5 pm to return to NOVA around 9 pm. Spots are limited to 50 people. Sign up for the bus HERE.

Wednesday, December 14, 10:00am – 11:30am
10^th ANNUAL NEWTOWN ANNIVERSARY VIGIL AT THE NRA
Join your fellow #GunSafety advocates  in commemorating the 26 victims on the 10^th anniversary of the Sandy Hook massacre – the impetus for the monthly protests that have been held in front of the NRA headquarters in Fairfax without fail, every single month since.  This event will feature many guest speakers and the involvement of faith leaders. Please plan to attend this important event in front of the NRA HQ at 11250 Waples Mill Rd, Fairfax to remind the gun lobby and Congress that we have not gone away and we are still demanding better laws to protect our children and all of the people in our country from gun violence.  Please see the attached graphic and share it broadly on social media.  We are hoping for a very large turnout.

Wednesday, December 14th, 5:30pm
Solar & Energy Happy Hour
Caboose Commons, Fairfax, sponsored by CCAN, Virginia Interfaith Power & Light, Clean Virginia and others RSVP here

Thursday, December 15 – 6:30 PM – Arlington
Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia (PPAV) Holiday House Party
Please join Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia (PPAV) for our holiday house party fundraiser in Arlington! Enjoy holiday cheer, provided food and drink, and great company to help support PPAV’s organizing efforts in the Commonwealth. At the home of Home of Matt de Ferranti and Brooke Tansill de Ferranti.
Special Guests: Congressman Don Beyer, Delegate Hope, & Delegate Lopez
RSVP Here: https://www.weareplannedparenthoodaction.org/a/arlington-holiday-house-party

Friday, December 16th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch. RSVP here

Tuesday, January 24th – Richmond
VA Democracy Day
More Info HERE.

Thursday, January 26th, 9:00am – 1:30pm
2023 Day of Action for Affordable Energy
More info and RSVP here.

CALLS TO ACTION

Call to Action: Sign Petition in Support Teaching the Truth in Virginia History Classes
Please support the teaching of complete and true history and social science in Virginia’s elementary and secondary schools by supporting the History and Social Science Standards of Learning and Curriculum presented to the Virginia Board of Education in August 2022. Details of the issue can be found in the petition linked here. Please consider signing it. https://chng.it/h7w4tDtKgp.  Contact Marianne with any questions, marianne.vagrassrootscoalition@gmail.com

ACTION ALERT ON CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM – Act by December 11th
The clock is ticking to influence campaign finance reform in Virginia. The Sub-Committee on Campaign Finance Reform has unexpectedly convened, meeting scheduled for Dec 12th,  and the House chair has kicked off many of the previous members who supported reform.   This is the time for you to take easy action. 
1) Send a letter to the 10 members of the Sub-Committee expressing your support for campaign finance reform. Just click here and send a pre-written message which goes directly to all 10 members as well as Rules chairs, Senator Mamie Locke and Del. Todd Gilbert.. 
2) Provide written testimony to the Sub-Committee.  Intimidated?  Don’t be. Click here and you will find lots of messages from which you can mix and match.  Just cut and paste them into the link to provide comments.  
3) If you still have energy to click, go to the Grassroots Coalition ACTION ALERTS or campaign finance reform.  Click here and you  can send a message to your Virginia elected legislators. Meanwhile, groups are encouraged to sign onto our advocacy letter. 
THANKS! Questions, contact me. nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com

Week of November 27th

Friday, December 2nd, 12:00pm
Power Lunch. RSVP here

Saturday, December 3, 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Meet the Fabulous Bob Shippee, Running for New District 57, Henrico County
Join Amy Bergner, Sharon Shutler, Kathie Hoekstra, & Meredith Haines for a very special Meet-and-Greet.  Bob Shippee, a longtime Virginia activist and chair of the VA state Sierra Club’s legislative Committee, is running for delegate in the brand new 57th District.  Bob will be a great advocate, and strong defender of the climate, abortion rights, public schools and voting rights – all of which are under attack by Governor Youngkin and the House Republicans.  We’ve worked with Bob for years & can vouch that he’s good folks. And he’s experienced! He already knows how to work with the General Assembly.  Sign up HERE to attend in person or by zoom.
Please consider donating whether you attend or not HERE
For more information, contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com or Kathie Hoekstra at 391deltacharlie@gmail.com

Volunteering for Warnock, Seibold (HD35) and Rouse (SD7) Campaigns

• Help support Candidate Holly Seibold in the special election for HD35!  Volunteer here. Website – https://www.hollyseibold.com/, FB – https://www.facebook.com/HollySeiboldVA, IG – https://www.instagram.com/hollyseiboldva/, Twitter – https://twitter.com/HollySeiboldVA, Donate – https://secure.actblue.com/donate/hollyseibold 
• Help support Candidate Aaron Rouse in the special election for SD7! Volunteer here. Website – https://rouseforsenate.com/, Events – https://rouseforsenate.com/volunteer/, FB – https://www.facebook.com/AaronRouseVB, IG – https://www.instagram.com/aar0n_rouse/, Twitter – https://twitter.com/aaronrousevabch, Donate – https://secure.actblue.com/donate/rouseforsenate
• Support Rev. Warnock in the December 6th Runoff!  Lots of volunteer options here.

Indivisible has financial assistance available for folks who want to travel to Atlanta to canvas. They are reimbursing for travel and meals, and providing hotel accommodations.

2 Weeks of November 13th & 20th

GEORGIA

VIRTUAL PHONE BANKS FOR THE GEORGIA RUN-OFF ELECTION
Join Call 4 Change for Virtual phone banks as we call Democrat voters in Georgia and get them out to vote for Raphael Warnock! Sign up at: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/543627/ 
Writing Postcards:
• Activate America has launched their GA postcarding effort. Sign up here. (You must supply your own postcards.)
• Center for Common Ground/Reclaim Our Vote has 879,000 addresses of consistent/reliable Black voters in Georgia available. YOU NEED TO USE THEIR CARDS so build in time to order them. The postcards need to be mailed by November 23. To get background and sign up to write postcards go here.
• Postcards To Voters now has a writing camp aign for Warnock in GA.If you are an approved writer text HELLO to (484) 275-2229 or message HELLO to Abby the Address Bot or send an email to: Request@AbbyAddresses.org. Not yet approved and ready to join Postcards To Voters? Text JOIN to (484) 275-2229 or send an email to: Join@TonyTheDemocrat.org (You must supply your own postcards.)

Wednesday, November 16, 7:00PM
Dem Workshop on Revamping our Communication
Wednesday evening’s Fairfax Dems presentation/workshop will focus on how we Dems can revamp the way we communicate. It’ll be via Zoom at 7pm. Click on the link below to register. I believe it’s never been more crucial to communicate & morally brand as effectively as possible. Questions? Text Federico Cura at (202) 841-2749. 
Sign up HERE.

Wednesday, November 16th
Looking Back, Moving Forward
Join NOPE as we review the results of the 2022 midterm elections and discuss how we move forward toward a more just, equitable, and democratic future for our country.   As a DC-based group with a national network of activists and donors, we’ve been defending democracy one election at a time since 2016. Our work is certainly not done. However, before we start looking ahead to 2024, we need to wrap up the 2022 election cycle, and that means winning the US Senate seat in GA. Learn more about the GA Senate run-off and how you can support the organizations that will be knocking on doors to encourage GA voters to re-elect Senator Warnock on December 6. Our featured speaker on this important topic will be Christine White, the Executive Director of the Georgia Alliance for Progress (GAP). GAP is an umbrella progressive group that channels contributions to grassroots organizations throughout the state, based on their ability to take effective action and deliver results. RSVP here

Friday, November 18th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Saturday, November 19th, 9:00am to 5:00pm
Running for Office 101 Training
The Fairfax County Democratic Committee is excited to host its first-ever candidate training! There are over 50 offices on the ballot in next year’s pivotal local and state elections, and the FCDC is committed to preparing Democratic candidates with the skills they need to effectively run their campaigns. The training will consist of discussion sessions led by notable current and former elected officials and campaign staff. Discussion session topics include: 1) Setting up your campaign committee, 2) Qualifying for the ballot, 3) Political fundraising, 4) Messaging …and much more!  Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get your campaign off to a great start! First-time candidates are encouraged to attend. If you were elected to your first term in 2020 or 2021, you are welcome to attend this training. Coffee and lunch will be provided. A social hour at a nearby venue will follow the event.
Location: Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035. RSVP here

Monday, November 28th, 7:00 pm 
Climate & Clean Energy Working Group Zoom Meeting – Guest Sen. Jennifer McClellan
Join the Virginia Grassroots Coalition’s Climate & Clean Energy Working Group for our General Assembly kickoff meeting. If you’re concerned about climate and Virginia’s path forward on clean energy (or if you’re just interested), you’ll want to attend this zoom meeting. Learn how we leverage our campaign support into specific policy advocacy. We will highlight our key priorities for the upcoming legislative session and discuss how you can make a difference!  Our special guest speaker, Sen. Jennifer McClellan is a climate and clean energy champion, and we are really excited to hear about her plans for the 2023 General Assembly. Questions?  Contact Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com or Meredith Haines at mhainesva@gmail.com 
Join Zoom Meeting November 28 at 7 pm
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89386016695?pwd=UWNOUDJtOTlLZllzTm5wMFdYN1Jrdz09
Meeting ID: 893 8601 6695
Passcode: 080547
One tap mobile
+13017158592,,89386016695#,,,,*080547# US (Washington DC)
+13092053325,,89386016695#,,,,*080547# US

Wednesday, December 7, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Racial Equity & Justice in emerging Marijuana Industry in VA
Please join RASR for a discussion on the changing legal landscape relating to marijuana laws, farming, and business opportunities in the context of racial equity. Register HERE.

Wednesday, December 14, 10:00am – 11:30am
10^th ANNUAL NEWTOWN ANNIVERSARY VIGIL AT THE NRA
Join your fellow #GunSafety advocates  in commemorating the 26 victims on the 10^th anniversary of the Sandy Hook massacre – the impetus for the monthly protests that have been held in front of the NRA headquarters in Fairfax without fail, every single month since.  This event will feature many guest speakers and the involvement of faith leaders. Please plan to attend this important event in front of the NRA HQ at 11250 Waples Mill Rd, Fairfax to remind the gun lobby and Congress that we have not gone away and we are still demanding better laws to protect our children and all of the people in our country from gun violence.  Please see the attached graphic and share it broadly on social media.  We are hoping for a very large turnout.

Monday, Jan 16, 2-5 PM
Honor MLK
Please plan to join the Virginia Center for Public Safety, its partners, and the Virginia Community as we honor the memory and teachings of a great civil rights leader who was killed by gunfire.  We will also honor the lives of all Virginians killed by gun violence and we invite you to commit to reducing gun violence by raising your voice for responsible gun laws. From 2-3 pm, there will be a vigil at the Bell Tower on the Capitol Grounds and from 3-5 pm we will advocate for better gun laws by speaking with legislators in the Pocahontas Building. A flyer is attached. Please share this with your community and faith groups.  Also attached is a sign-up flyer for a bus to Richmond from Charlottesville. More details including information on buses from Roanoke, Hampton Roads, and NoVA, will come in a later announcement

Week of November 6th

HIGHEST PRIORITY
Now – Nov 8th
Elaine Luria
• Help call and text DC volunteers to get them to commit to GOTV. Sign up here.
• Help with vote tripling! Vote Tripling is asking people who’ve just voted if they will call or text three friends or family members to remind them to vote. Sign up here.
• If you are not available to canvas, help phonebank from 11/6 – 11/8. Sign up here.
• All Canvass & Phonebank Options for Luria here: https://www.mobilize.us/luriaforcongress

Now – Nov 9th
Phonebank to Cure Ballots
Join Democrats in Virginia to play a vital role in ensuring every vote counts. Call Virginia voters whose ballots have been rejected to help them cure their ballot so that their voices are heard. Phonebank time slots are available November 6 through November 9.  Sign up here.

Tuesday, Nov 8th, 7:00pm – 10:00pm
WofA Election Night Watch Gathering
Come join the WofA Potluck Watch Party at The Ponderosa (1618 N Adams St, Arlington). For planning purposes, please RSVP to Micaela at: Micaela.pond@gmail.com

Send texts. Swipe Blue provides an app that is easy to use. Texting apps are a way to reach rural voters as well as urban voters. Swipe Blue does NOT store your contacts in any way, shape or form. Sign up here.

Reach out to friends and family. Many Democrats are not aware of the upcoming election or, due to re-districting, the record of their representative. Send a text or give them a call. 

Social Media Monitors will identify voters posting on social media about problems voting, and connect them to resources and support. Additionally, you’ll be catching and reporting vote-related misinformation and disinformation. This was a big problem in 2020 and we’re already seeing it continue in 2022, so your support here will be a huge help. Register for a Social Media Monitor Training >>

Week of October 30th

Just one more week until Election Day!
Still time & plenty of ways to GOTV!

Now – November 8
Abigail Spanberger Canvass
Join us canvassing for Abigail Spanberger – every day until the election!  Many people are working from home, so weekday canvassing is a great option!  Prince William County – Dumfries: Team Spanberger GOTV! · Abigail Spanberger for Congress.
Details here: https://www.mobilize.us/spanbergerforcongress/event/522936/

Tuesday, November 1, 7:30
Rally Your Squad to Vote w/ Heather Cox Richardson
Exactly one week from Election Day, Heather Cox Richardson will remind us that defeating extremism IS possible–but not without a fight. We have it in us. History is watching. Join Heather and Red Wine and Blue for this highly interactive event where Heather will answer our most pressing questions as we rally our friends to vote. Bonus: For every 10 friends you contact about voting, RWB will donate $50 to women in critical need of access to abortion services. It only takes 2 mins to set up your dashboard at https://go.redwine.blue/vote or by texting RALLY to 59868. RSVP here

Thursday, November 3rd, 6:30pm
2022 General Election Virtual Phone Bank with New Virginia Majority
(multiple dates and times)
Join New Virginia Majority this fall as we phone bank to get out the vote for the November General Election. No phone banking experience is required, all volunteers will receive a brief training before they begin making calls.  This event will take place over Zoom. The Zoom link and instructions to join will be sent out before each phone bank. RSVP here

Thursday, November 3rd, 6:00pm – 9:00pm
DMV “The Last Weekend” Action Night (Phone/Text/Friend Banking)
Join Blue Victory 2022 and Northern Virginia For Biden’s “Keep Virginia Blue” Outreach Crew for a DC/MD/VA Get-Out-The-Vote Action Night Rally to support Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger in Prince William County (VA-7) and Congresswoman Elaine Luria in Virginia Beach (VA-2) as part of Swing Left’s campaign to mobilize inside-the-beltway volunteers on “The Last Weekend” before Election Day! More details and RSVP here

Friday, November 4th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch – RSVP here

Friday, November 4th, 6:30pm
DARK MONEY – Online Screening
The film takes viewers to Montana and analyzes the influence of corporate money on government officials and elections. Dark money, directed by Kimberly Reed, follows John S. Adams of the Montana Free Press, who plays a crucial role as an investigative reporter that has been “chasing the money” and investigating state politics for several years. The story describes how the 2010 ruling of Citizens United v. FEC Supreme Court, a vital supreme court decision regarding finance laws, has impacted corporate interests in the political scene of Butte, Montana, and is now a rising source of national concern. As Montana’s former attorney general, Steve Bullock, tries to stop the supreme court rule and the spread of dark money from being applied in the state, the people of Montana find themselves at the forefront of the fight. Please join us online on November 4th at 6:30 PM PST for a screening of the film followed by a community discussion with guest speaker Cindy Black. RSVP here

Saturday, November 5th, 7:30am to 9:00pm
DMV Bus Trip to VA-2 with Swing Left!
Join Northern Virginia For Biden’s “Keep Virginia Blue” Outreach Crew and other Swing Left volunteers to knock doors for VA-2, Elaine Luria!
Reserve your spot on the bus here: https://tinyurl.com/DC2VASwingLeftBusTrips

Saturday, November 5th, 10:00am
Team Wexton GOTV Canvass Launch with Tim Kaine – RSVP here

Sunday, November 6th, 9:30am to 8:00pm
DMV Bus Trip to VA-7 with Swing Left!
Join Northern Virginia For Biden’s “Keep Virginia Blue” Outreach Crew and other Swing Left volunteers to knock doors for VA-7, Abigail Spanberger! Reserve your spot on the bus here: https://tinyurl.com/DC2VASwingLeftBusTrips

Sunday, November 6th, 3:00pm
2022 General Election Virtual Phone Bank with New Virginia Majority
(multiple dates and times)
Join New Virginia Majority this fall as we phone bank to get out the vote for the November General Election. No phone banking experience is required, all volunteers will receive a brief training before they begin making calls.  This event will take place over Zoom. The Zoom link and instructions to join will be sent out before each phone bank. RSVP here

Monday, November 7th, 6:00pm – 9:00pm
DMV “The Last Weekend” Action Night (Phone/Text/Friend Banking)
Join Blue Victory 2022 and Northern Virginia For Biden’s “Keep Virginia Blue” Outreach Crew for a DC/MD/VA Get-Out-The-Vote Action Night Rally to support Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger in Prince William County (VA-7) and Congresswoman Elaine Luria in Virginia Beach (VA-2) as part of Swing Left’s campaign to mobilize inside-the-beltway volunteers on “The Last Weekend” before Election Day! More details and RSVP here

Tuesday, November 8
Save the Date! Election Watch Party 
Details to Follow!

Saturdays at 10:30 am (Some Sundays at 1 pm)
Canvass for Bethany Sutton-School Board & Matt de Ferranti-Arlington County Board 
Please email\ Campaign Manager, Mark Teel at Mark@mattforarlington.com to sign up.

Wednesday, November 9th, 7:00pm
How Political Fundraising Impacts Virginia Business
Is our Free-Market Business Environment at Risk Due to Money in Politics? What can you do as a Virginia Business Owner? JOIN US and the experts for a timely conversation! Patti Morrissey, leads Global Foresight Strategies and was a two-time candidate for the Va House of Delegates. John P. McCrea, Mgr, American Promise National Business Network. Nancy Morgan, Coordinator, Virginia Chapter of American Promise. David Black, Retired Pres & CEO, Harrisburg, PA Regional Chamber & CREDC with expertise in economic development & politics. RSVP here

CANVASSING, PHONEBANKING, TEXTING and BALLOT CURING

• Luria Volunteer Opportunities: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-calls-to-action.php?type=Volunteer&location=VA&lname=Luria
• Spanberger Volunteer Opportunities: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-calls-to-action.php?type=Volunteer&location=VA&lname=Spanberger
• Wexton Volunteer Opportunities: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-calls-to-action.php?type=Volunteer&location=VA&lname=Wexton 
• Gothard Campaign – Nick Gothard is running for Loudoun County School Board, Broad Run District. He is getting attacked and could really use support on the doors. Sign up to volunteer at nickgothard.us/volunteer. Nick is on the ballot with Wexton.
• Virginia Ballot Curing Phonebank – focused on Luria, Spanberger and Wexton.  Sign up here.

ENSURE SAFE VOTING

• Poll Greeting in Arlington and Loudon – Arlington: Sign up here for election day poll greeting.  Sign up here for early voting poll greeting.  Loudoun: sign up for election day poll greeting in the Algonkian District.
• Poll Monitors support voters at the polls in-person, answering questions but also connecting voters denied the ballot to legal resources. This is a great way to directly assist voters and be our eyes and ears at the polls, making sure every valid registered voter gets to exercise their rights. Register for a Poll Monitor Training >>
• Social Media Monitors will identify voters posting on social media about problems voting, and connect them to resources and support. Additionally, you’ll be catching and reporting vote-related misinformation and disinformation. This was a big problem in 2020 and we’re already seeing it continue in 2022, so your support here will be a huge help. Register for a Social Media Monitor Training >>

CALLS TO ACTION:

Set the record straight – Democrat’s Economic Impact
The Dems have a proven record of being better on the economy. It’s important to amplify the truth and not let the GOP distract with their lies and spin.   
CTA 1: Share this article explaining how the Dems policies and recent legislation are helping people and how the GOP voted against helping people. Share on Facebook and retweet with the following message:
The Dems have a proven record of being better on the economy. #VoteBlue2022
CTA 2: Use this digital toolkit to find more memes and articles to share on social media to counter the GOP lies and spin. Questions: Contact Freeda Cathcart, contactfreeda@gmail.com

Raise your voice and ask your legislators to support campaign finance bills.
Show your support for campaign finance reform by:
1) Sending a letter to your Virginia legislator. It will go to your Virginia Delegate, Senator, and the Governor. Just click and send.
2) Signing a petition to be shared with committees and legislators.
3) If you are a group or a business, signing onto our advocacy letter.
Contact Nancy Morgan with any questions: nancyruthmorgan@ahwwp1309

Rideshare2Vote – Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator
Rideshare2Vote is again offering free rides to the polls for Democrats in Virginia.  We will try to service any voter from any area of the state, but our primary focus is in Northern Virginia (Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria etc. on down to Fredericksburg), the Charlottesville area, Richmond and surrounding counties, and the Hampton Roads area (City of Hampton, City of Norfolk, and City of Virginia Beach primarily).  We had many more ride requests than we had drivers in these areas in 2021 and want to be fully prepared to drive every voter in November 2022.  In addition to driver volunteers, we have other work-from-home volunteer opportunities as well (phone bankers and dispatch operators primarily).  We provide training to drivers on our smartphone app that connects drivers and voters and directs the drivers to the correct pickup and voting locations – trainings are held online throughout the summer, and we may, depending upon demand, need specialty drivers willing to drive wheelchair accessible vehicles which we rent.  We will drive for at least 1 week of early voting plus election day, November 8.  Please help us make sure no Democratic voter gets left behind!  Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator at: https://rides2vote.com/volunteer-application/ You can use this flyer for recruiting.  Contact: Tracy Scott – 713.922.0955. Tracy.Scott@RideShare2Vote.com

Week of October 23rd

14 Days Until Election Day –
Still time to Make A Difference!

October 29 – 30 (1 or 2 days)
URGENT: Elaine Luria Canvass, VA Beach
The following has been passed on to us from our friends at VADF:
“Just to let you know, the campaign called on Friday urging me to bring down as many volunteers as possible. Their internal poll shows Elaine tied 45-45 with her opponent. So, if you have any ability to come on down, please do so! (more info below)
Google Sign Up Link:  https://bit.ly/GFormLuriaOct29
Mobilize Link:  https://bit.ly/MobLuriaOct29

• Join the Grassroots Canvas October 29-30 – Join a coalition of grassroots groups for a canvassing event in Virginia Beach on Oct. 29-30 to help hold Elaine Luria’s seat.  We will launch from her headquarters on Sat. morning.  For those who can stay overnight, we will have a group rate at the Hilton Garden Inn in Virginia Beach Center and dinner nearby.  We will also provide, to the extent available, accommodations at host families.  We will arrange for rides, but drivers will be needed.  More information is on the Google Sign Up Link. Google Sign Up Link:  https://bit.ly/GFormLuriaOct29; Mobilize Link:  https://bit.ly/MobLuriaOct29 (Remember to checkmark Oct. 29/30 rather than what is pre-filled now.) Contact: Annette.lang1231@gmail.com
• CCAN is doing vote tripling in Luria’s district. It’s an actually fun and effective tactic. RSVP for Tuesdays and Saturdays here.  If people need transportation and housing support contact Zander (zander@chesapeakeclimate.org) and Jamie (jamie@chesapeakeclimate.org). We would love to get people down to CD2 and want to help if money is a barrier.
• Luria Volunteer Opportunities: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-calls-to-action.php?type=Volunteer&location=VA&lname=Luria

Update on Luria campaign
WofAs have helped our adopted candidate Elaine Luria in many ways & there are still many opportunities listed in this week’s What’s Up, with Election Day right around the corner. Here’s a recap of our support, for which the campaign is most grateful: 
• Our fundraising over $20,000 provided the initial funding for over $1 million of paid canvassing, which has resulted in over 700,000 doors knocked, and more on the way
• WofAs led the first of three NOVA/DC organization canvass trips to Virginia Beach and have participated in other canvasses there. Still time to sign up for the weekend of October 29-30 (see sign up links above)
• WofAs wrote & sent 6000 postcards to voters in the newly redistricted 2nd CD

Wednesday, October 26th, 12:30pm – 1:00pm
TikTok Training with Jessica Craven 
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OMidokK8QgKsAhH7wRVGqA

Wednesday, October 26th, 7:00pm
Domestic Violence Awareness Month with Moms Demand Action Virginia Beach-Norfolk
Join us as we welcome our Community Partner, Samaritan House. Samaritan House provides services to our community for victims of domestic and sexual violence, and human trafficking. We’ll be learning more about the new Virginia Substantial Risk Order law and how gun violence intersects with domestic violence.  Virtual on Zoom. RSVP by 10/24.  RSVP here: https://click.everyaction.com/k/52516076/372525626/-1788630963

Friday, October 28th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch RSVP here

Sunday, October 30th, late morning
Roe the Vote on Lake Barcroft
We will wear pink super hero capes and costumes. We will use SUP, kayaks, pontoon boats and other floating devices. If you are interested in joining, please connect with Stair at 703 203 8510 for the details.

Thursday, November 3rd, 6:30pm
2022 General Election Virtual Phone Bank w/ New Virginia Majority (multiple dates & times)
Join New Virginia Majority this fall as we phone bank to get out the vote for the November General Election. No phone banking experience is required, all volunteers will receive a brief training before they begin making calls.  This event will take place over Zoom. The Zoom link and instructions to join will be sent out before each phone bank. RSVP here

Friday, November 4th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Sunday, November 6th, 3:00pm
2022 General Election Virtual Phone Bank with New Virginia Majority (multiple dates & times)
Join New Virginia Majority this fall as we phone bank to get out the vote for the November General Election. No phone banking experience is required, all volunteers will receive a brief training before they begin making calls.  This event will take place over Zoom. The Zoom link and instructions to join will be sent out before each phone bank. RSVP here

Saturday, November 19th, 9:00am to 5:00pm
Running for Office 101 Training
The Fairfax County Democratic Committee is excited to host its first-ever candidate training! There are over 50 offices on the ballot in next year’s pivotal local and state elections, and the FCDC is committed to preparing Democratic candidates with the skills they need to effectively run their campaigns. The training will consist of discussion sessions led by notable current and former elected officials and campaign staff. Discussion session topics include: 1) Setting up your campaign committee, 2) Qualifying for the ballot, 3) Political fundraising, 4) Messaging …and much more!  Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get your campaign off to a great start! First-time candidates are encouraged to attend. If you were elected to your first term in 2020 or 2021, you are welcome to attend this training. Coffee and lunch will be provided. A social hour at a nearby venue will follow the event. Location: Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035. RSVP here

Now – November 3
Early Voting!!!
For more information on times/locations: https://iwillvote.com/

MORE CANVASSING, TEXTING & BALLOT CURING

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION/OPPORTUNITIES

• Gothard Campaign – Nick Gothard is running for Loudoun County School Board, Broad Run District. He is getting attacked and could really use support on the doors. Sign up to volunteer at nickgothard.us/volunteer. Nick is on the ballot with Wexton.
• Relational Organizing – 80% of Youngkin’s margin was by party switchers. Check out great resources and upcoming trainings in Jim’s presentation slides – https://tinyurl.com/VGCSocialSlides
• Swipe Blue – The app is really easy to use. Texting apps help us reach rural voters as well as urban voters.  You can use it to text locally or nationally! Swipe Blue does NOT store your contacts in any way, shape or form. https://swipeblueapp.app.link/demcast_22
• #PinktheVote – check out the great graphics on the coalition’s website and post them to social media! https://virginiagrassroots.org/
• Education Working Group: Take action on Youngkin’s transgender policy, see details below. Check out Marianne’s slides here.
• Gas and Pipelines Working Group – We won a significant battle in September. Tim Kane is planning to continue fighting. A big push will be needed after the election. Stay tuned. Link to talking points on how to counter the Manchin’s bill lies: https://priceofoil.org/2022/09/08/mvp-myth-press-release/
• Campaign Finance Reform Group – There is currently one bill that has a strong chance in the 2023 Legislative Session, Favola’s “sunshine” bill. Join the group’s weekly Tuesday Meetings. And save the date for Democracy Day in Richmond on January 24^th.
• New Virginia Majority is recruiting Election Day Peacekeepers.  Learn more here. 
• Arlington Dems are recruiting for poll greeters.  Sign up here for election day poll greeting.  Sign up here for early voting poll greeting.
• Virginia Ballot Curing Phonebank.  Sign up here.

ENSURE SAFE VOTING

• Poll Greeting in Arlington and Loudon – Arlington: Sign up here for election day poll greeting.  Sign up here for early voting poll greeting.  Loudoun – Algonkian District, early voting at Ridgetop Circle in Sterling. 
• New Virginia Majority is recruiting Election Day Peacekeepers.  Learn more here. 
• Poll Monitors support voters at the polls in-person, answering questions but also connecting voters denied the ballot to legal resources. This is a great way to directly assist voters and be our eyes and ears at the polls, making sure every valid registered voter gets to exercise their rights. Register for a Poll Monitor Training
• Social Media Monitors will identify voters posting on social media about problems voting, and connect them to resources and support. Additionally, you’ll be catching and reporting vote-related misinformation and disinformation. This was a big problem in 2020 and we’re already seeing it continue in 2022, so your support here will be a huge help. Register for a Social Media Monitor Training

Tuesday, November 8
Save the Date! Election Watch Party 
Details to Follow!

CALL TO ACTION: Make a Public Comments AGAINST Youngkin’s new Transgender Policy – by October 26th
4Public Education strongly condemns the recent policy directive of Governor Youngkin’s Department of Education to reverse guidelines to protect and respect transgender youth. The new mandatory policy is designed to interfere with family dynamics, further harass, intimidate and undermine teachers and staff, and to place some of our most vulnerable children at greater risk. It is anti-family, anti-children, and anti-public school. This policy has the potential to damage long-developed relationships between families and schools during times when families and students need support. This is done to further the false narrative that schools are trying to take away parents’ rights. CTA – Simply saying “I strongly oppose this action” will contribute to this effort. If you like you can add additional language from the 4PE statement or a personal story how this impacts your family. Click here for details on how to make a public comment: https://www.4publiceducation.org/act.  Make a comment here: https://townhall.virginia.gov/L/GDocForum.cfm?GDocForumID=1953 

CALL TO ACTION: Take Immediate Action to Stop Gov. Youngkin from Unlawfully Removing Virginia from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) – by October 26th
Passed in 2020, RGGI lowers greenhouse gas emissions from electric utilities through a formula that decreases emissions over time.  In the interim, the utilities must pay Virginia for emissions. By law, proceeds are allocated to local communities to address climate change induced floods and to weatherize homes in low income communities – which reduces energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions.  In the first year, Virginia communities received over $228 million from RGGI.  Submit your commits to the Virginia Townhall Website using this link provided by Appalachian Voices no later than October 26: https://bit.ly/3F3lLKu

Saturdays at 10:30 am (Some Sundays at 1 pm)
Canvass for Bethany Sutton for School Board and Matt de Ferranti for Arlington County Board 
Please email Campaign Manager, Mark Teel at Mark@mattforarlington.com to sign up.

Be a Poll Observer!
Poll observers are the eyes and ears for the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Voter Protection Team at polling locations across the state. You will help us ensure that eligible Virginians are able to successfully cast their ballot, which makes poll observing the single most important thing you can do to guarantee a strong, healthy democracy. Info and Sign-up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjqUsFR5WDK5TC5wT-7x6jZoCvLWIFM2mABRfwLh0SI4sAjQ/viewform

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM Eastern
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

Week of October 16th

URGENT – Action Needed: Reject Youngkin’s Harmful Trans Guidelines
Demand the state Department of Education revoke Gov Youngkin’s harmful Trans Policy guidelines and that individual school districts also reject the proposed changes. The new guidelines are set to take effect in Virginia after a 30-day public comment period that began on Monday and ends Oct. 26. So far, more than 18,000 comments have been submitted.Submit your comments here: https://townhall.virginia.gov/L/comments.cfm?GDocForumID=1953. More info here

Thursday, October 19, 1:00pm (new time)
Memorial Service for Susan Landfield
Temple Micah, Social Hall – 2829 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
As many have heard, our dear WofA member and World Activist, Susan Landfield, passed away last week. We have just received information on her memorial service and are passing this on to the many who have inquired. Our thoughts are with Susan’s family and many friends.
From Susan’s Family:
We are having a memorial service to celebrate a remarkable, independent, loving, active, gentle, spirited, smart, dedicated woman, Susan Landfield. I hope you can come to the in person service at Temple Micah (2829 Wisconsin Ave, NW, just north of Glover Park), at 1 pm on Wednesday, October 19. There will be a reception afterward with a light lunch. If you prefer to attend virtually, please use the Zoom link below. I hope to see you on the 19th. Please feel free to share this information with other friends of Susan’s.
Warmly, Katharine (Susan’s cousin)
Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86927824677… 
Meeting ID: 869 2782 4677  – Passcode: Landfield

October 29 – 30
VA Beach Canvass for Elaine Luria
Join a coalition of grassroots groups for a canvassing event in Virginia Beach on Oct. 29-30 to help hold Elaine Luria’s seat.  We will launch from her headquarters on Sat. morning.  For those who can stay overnight, we will have a group rate at the Hilton Garden Inn in Virginia Beach Center and dinner nearby.  We will also provide, to the extent available, accommodations at host families.  We will arrange for rides, but drivers will be needed.  More information is on the Google Sign Up Link. 
Google Sign Up Link:  https://bit.ly/GFormLuriaOct29; 
Mobilize Link:  https://bit.ly/MobLuriaOct29 (Remember to checkmark Oct. 29/30 rather than what is pre-filled now.) 
Contact: Annette.lang1231@gmail.com

Now – November 9th
Phone Bank to Help Cure Ballots
Join Democrats in Virginia to play a vital role in ensuring every vote counts! We will be calling Virginia voters whose ballots have been rejected to help them cure their ballot so that their voices are heard!Info and Sign Up here: https://www.mobilize.us/dccc/event/523916/

Now – November 3
Early Voting!!!
For more information on times/locations: https://iwillvote.com/
Vote Early yard signs available! If you live on a well traveled street, please consider placing a “Vote Early” sign in your front yard. These have been designed to be re-used for subsequent elections (will only need a sticker to change the month/number date). If interested, please contact Kathleen Murray for pick up information at: kamwjm@gmail.com.

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION/OPPORTUNITIES

Saturdays at 10:30 am (Some Sundays at 1 pm)
Canvass for Bethany Sutton for School Board & Matt de Ferranti for Arlington County Board 
Please email\ Campaign Manager, Mark Teel at Mark@mattforarlington.com to sign up.

Join Team Spanberger! Canvass; Phone; Text  and other opportunities!
Canvassing:  Sign up HERE
Texts: Sign up HERE
Phones: Sign up HERE
Sample Balloting in PWC: Sign up HERE
Poll Observer Training: Sign up HERE

Make 3.5 million calls to Black voters this fall! Right now, they are calling voters in Virginia and Georgia. More info here: Join the Center for Common Ground

Week of October 9th

Monday, October 10th, 2022, 6:45 – 8:00
WofA Membership Meeting
Please join us at the last membership meeting before the November Elections. We will be hearing from ACPS Board Member, Mary Kadera on Youngkin’s harmful Trans Policy. Ja’Scotta Jefferson, VA Dems, Voter Protection Director, will provide updates on the many paths we can take to protect our vote. For more information on Voter Protection, please see here: https://vademocrats.org/voprovolunteer/
WofA Memb Meeting Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88901510334

Tuesday, October 11 – 4:15
Voting & Vino –  Courthouse Plaza – 2100 Clarendon Blvd (meet on front steps). Vote early with your WofA friends! After voting, we will stroll over to Verre Wine Bar’s outdoor patio (2415 Wilson Blvd) bar for a Social Hour!

Saturday, October 15 – 10:00am and 12:00pm
Canvass for Democracy Day of Action for Abigail Spanberger 
Join Network NOVA and the Virginia Grassroots Coalition this Saturday October 15, 2022. The big kickoff event will be the Rally in PWC at 10am and then additional canvasses throughout the district starting at 12pm. I hope you and your group/committee members will join the Rally and one of the canvasses throughout the day. Please share. Thank you!
October 15, 10am – Rally and Canvass for Democracy in Prince William County with Congresswoman Spanberger
October 15, 10AM + 12PM – Canvass Launches in Stafford County 
October 15, 10:30AM – Canvass Launch in Fredericksburg City 
October 15, 10AM + 12PM – Canvass in Spotsylvania County 
October 15, 12pm – Canvass with Team Spanberger in Southern Prince William County – Dumfries

Thursday, October 13, 8:00am – 9:30am
DemBiz Breakfast with Emily Cain, Executive Director of  EMILY’S LIST
EMILY’S LIST is the pre-eminent organization seeking to put pro-choice Democratic women into local, state and national offices to make significant contributions to education, health care, voting rights, and economic equality. Join us for an engaging and timely conversation! Refraction in Valo Park at Tyson’s Corner (7950 Jones Branch Rd, McLean) Get tickets and more info here

Saturday, October 15 – 12:00 PM
Don Beyer, Matt de Ferranti & Bethany Sutton Canvass Launch 
1618 N Adams St (ThePonderosa!) 
Join WofA and Friends as we  hear from and launch our 2022 Democratic candidates in Arlington: Congressman Don Beyer, County Board Member Matt de Ferranti, and School Board Candidate Bethany Sutton.  RSVP & Info: https://mobilize.us/s/L5q0hQ

Monday, October 17
Last day to Register/Update your Voter Registration
To register/update go here: iwillvote.com

Tuesday, November 8
Save the Date! Election Watch Party 
Details to Follow!

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION/OPPORTUNITIES

Luria Phonebank Opportunities
Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays: Sign up HERE
Wednesdays: Sign up HERE

Canvassing Conversations – for new and veteran canvassers! Watch on your own and share with friends this great new training video on Canvassing from 31st Street Swing Left and Turn PA Blue. The 28-minute video is well worth your time, demystifying everything from key terms (MiniVan, high-potential voters, turf) to having deep conversations and the different types of encounters you may have during canvassing.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8SzuTKD8BA

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION/OPPORTUNITIES

DemCast Democracy Briefing -biweekly
Basic Twitter Skills for Social Storming (Field Team 6) – biweekly
Smart Politics Conversational Practice & Support Group – weekly
“Meme Team” Workshop – biweekly
“Words That Win” Training – recording

Week of October 2nd

Sat/Sun, Oct 8-9 (you can sign up for either day or both)
Grassroots Canvass for Elaine Luria
Please come out and help the grassroots re-elect Elaine Luria!  A 20-year Naval Officer and former small businesswoman, Elaine has been an outstanding Congresswoman for CD-2, including serving on the Jan. 6 Committee.  Elaine is one of the most vulnerable incumbents in the country because last year’s redistricting shifted her already “toss-up” District five points to the right.  VADF, We of Action, NOPE Neighbors, and Alexandria’s Dems to Go have teamed up to lead a group down south.  No incumbent in Virginia needs our canvassing support as much as Elaine.
WHERE:  5600 Virginia Beach Blvd, Suite 106, Virginia Beach.
OTHER:  Rides will be provided for those needing them.  We will also work to get housing in host family homes.  And, there will be a hotel option(s).  We will have a group dinner on Saturday night.
GOOGLE FORM TO SIGN-UP AND LET US KNOW YOUR PREFERENCES: LINK HERE
MOBILIZE LINK TO USE:  https://www.mobilize.us/alexdems/event/502391/

Saturday, October 8 10:30 AM
Canvass for Bethany Sutton for School Board and Matt de Ferranti for Arlington County Board 
When: Every Saturdays at 10:30 am. Some Sundays at 1 pm. Please email\ Campaign Manager, Mark Teel at Mark@mattforarlington.com to sign up.

Saturday, October 8th, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge
Join Team Spanberger as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Sunday, October 9th, 12:00pm – 3:30pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Team Spanberger to canvass in Prince William County to #SpanThe7th! We are so excited to talk to voters about Abigail and get them ready for this year’s election. Training, literature, and water will be provided. RSVP here

Monday, October 10th, 2022, 6:45 – 8:00
WofA Membership Meeting
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88901510334

Recurring Social Media Messaging Meetings/Trainings
DemCast Democracy Briefing -biweekly
Basic Twitter Skills for Social Storming (Field Team 6) – biweekly
Smart Politics Conversational Practice & Support Group – weekly
“Meme Team” Workshop – biweekly
“Words That Win” Training – recording

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION/OPPORTUNITIES

Canvass for Bethany Sutton for School Board and Matt de Ferranti for Arlington County Board 
When: Every Saturdays at 10:30 am. Some Sundays at 1 pm. 
Please email\ Campaign Manager, Mark Teel at Mark@mattforarlington.com to sign up.

Join Team Spanberger! Canvass; Phone; Text  and other opportunities!
Canvassing:  Sign up HERE
Texts: Sign up HERE
Phones: Sign up HERE
Sample Balloting in PWC: Sign up HERE
Poll Observer Training: Sign up HERE

Luria Phonebank Opportunities
Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays: Sign up HERE
Wednesdays: Sign up HERE

Canvassing Conversations – for new and veteran canvassers! Watch on your own and share with friends this great new training video on Canvassing from 31st Street Swing Left and Turn PA Blue. The 28-minute video is well worth your time, demystifying everything from key terms (MiniVan, high-potential voters, turf) to having deep conversations and the different types of encounters you may have during canvassing.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8SzuTKD8BA

Be a Poll Observer!
Poll observers are the eyes and ears for the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Voter Protection Team at polling locations across the state. You will help us ensure that eligible Virginians are able to successfully cast their ballot, which makes poll observing the single most important thing you can do to guarantee a strong, healthy democracy. Info and Sign-up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjqUsFR5WDK5TC5wT-7x6jZoCvLWIFM2mABRfwLh0SI4sAjQ/viewform

Week of September 25th

Thursday, September 29th, 4:00 – 6:00pm
Spanish for Activists
Do you speak Spanish AND want to reclaim our democracy? This two-hour workshop for canvassers and phone bankers will teach you strategies for engaging in meaningful conversations with voters who are most comfortable speaking Spanish. We’ll include strategies to help you navigate the critical first 30 seconds of a conversation, including phrases that communicate respect and help you earn voters’ trust. This interactive, intermediate-level class will be conducted mostly in Spanish, and will be co-taught by Mayela Galindo, a native Spanish-speaking language instructor, and Elizabeth Chur, an experienced canvasser and phone banker. Some experience with canvassing or phone banking preferred but not required. Enrollment is limited. RSVP Here: Spanish for Activists

Thursday, September 29th, 6:30pm
2022 General Election Virtual Phone Bank with New Virginia Majority
Join New Virginia Majority this fall as we phone bank to get out the vote for the November General Election. No phone banking experience is required, all volunteers will receive a brief training before they begin making calls.  This event will take place over Zoom. The Zoom link and instructions to join will be sent out before each phone bank. RSVP here

Friday, September 30th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch. RSVP here

October 1-2
Canvass for Luria with 31st Street Swing Left
Sign up to join us!  You will be invited to a Zoom briefing/strategy session on the Thursday evening before the canvass.  Questions, contact: Michelle Hainbach, m.hainbach@gmail.com. RSVP here

Saturday, October 1st, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge
Join Team Spanberger as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Sunday, October 2nd, 12:00pm – 3:30pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Team Spanberger to canvass in Prince William County to #SpanThe7th! We are so excited to talk to voters about Abigail and get them ready for this year’s election. Training, literature, and water will be provided. RSVP here

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION/OPPORTUNITIES

Luria Highest Priority Actions/Events:  
HERE

Luria Postcards
ATTENTION WofA Postcard writers!  
We have Get-out-the-Vote postcards for Elaine Luria. Please order your GOTV postcards here.

Tell the Democrats and Majority Leader Senator Schumer you want the Senate to vote on the ERA before the midterm elections.
• TWEET NOW: https://secure.everyaction.com/sruMcbR8EU-fGaHXXegGxw2
• WRITE NOW: https://secure.everyaction.com/38fFoRnJmkubNxKfA9OcKQ2 and https://bit.ly/3DCCHXy
• CALL NOW: “Hello, my name is YOUR NAME and I live in YOUR ADDRESS. It is past time for the Senate to take action on the Equal Rights Amendment. I am calling to urge the Senator’s support of a floor vote on the ERA before the midterm elections. Thank you.” You can call Senator Tim Kaine at (202) 224-4024 and Senator Mark Warner at (202) 224-2023. Senate Majority Leader Schumer should also hear from you, call him at (202) 224-6542.

Join the Center for Common Ground to make 3.5 million calls to Black voters this fall! Right now, they are calling voters in Virginia and Georgia.

Week of September 18th

Another WofA in Action! 
WofA’s Nancy Broff’s LOE, regarding the Washington Post September 18th piece on Youngkin restricting the rights of Virginia’s transgender youth, is spot on! LOE’s and LTE’s can be very powerful tools – please consider voicing your opinion – it matters! Scroll down this page in The Washington Post’s Opinion section to read Nancy’s LOE.

Wednesday, September 21st, 6:30pm
Poll Observer Training – Team Elaine (multiple dates available)
Join Team Elaine to play a vital role in protecting the vote by becoming a Poll Observer! Poll Observers ensure that every eligible voter can cast a ballot at polling places across the district during Early Voting and on Election Day. Poll Observers must attend a training to review Virginia election law, the reporting structure for Observers, and tips and tricks to being a good Poll Observer. At this training, we will give you all of the information and resources you’ll need to be a Poll Observer in VA-02. Elaine Luria staff will work with you to assign you to a polling locatio n that meets your needs as well as the community’s needs. Sign up now to defend democracy! RSVP here

Wednesday, September 21st, 6:30pm
Poll Observer Training – Team Spanberger (multiple dates available)
Join Team Spanberger to play a vital role in protecting the vote by becoming a Poll Observer! Poll Observers ensure that every eligible voter can cast a ballot at polling places across the district during Early Voting and on Election Day.  Poll Observers must attend a training to review Virginia’s election law, the reporting structure for Observers, and tips and tricks to being a good Poll Observer. At this training, we will give you all of the information and resources you’ll need to be a Poll Observer in that district.  Team Spanberger staff will work with you to assign you to a polling location that meets your needs as well as the community’s needs.  Sign up now to defend democracy! RSVP here

Thursday, September 22, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
The FCDC National Affairs Committee Forum, “A Republic, If You Can Keep It”
Featured speakers will include Dr. Drew Westen, John Flannery II, and David Pepper. They will explore the increasing threats to our democracy posed by Republicans at the federal and state levels and what Democrats can do to fight back.
More details and RSVP here

Friday, September, 23rd, 12 noon
Power Lunch – RSVP here.

Saturday, Sept. 24 – Sunday, Sept. 25
Luria Canvass – with Beyond Arlington, Veterans and Military Families Caucus &LGBTQ+ Democrats of VA 
Join in this huge joint Weekend of Action – come out to knock on doors across Virginia Beach to talk to voters about Elaine, find out what issues are most important to them, and identify Elaine voters. Details HERE.

Saturday, September 24th at 3:30 pm
Rally and Canvass Launch with Rep. Abigail Spanberger and Sen. Mark Warner!
Join Congresswoman Spanberger and Senator Mark Warner for a rally to kick off early vote in Prince William County! We will hear remarks from Senator Warner and Congresswoman Spanberger, receive training GOTV best practices, and get out on doors to engage voters about the election! RSVP here

Saturday Sept. 24 – Sunday, Sept. 25th – various times (see below)
Weekend of Action – Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge! RSVP Here

Saturday, September 24th, 9:00am to 3:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
Get inspired, learn and network with experts and advocates from around the Commonwealth! We aim to ensure our public schools stay public as we strive for equity and an exceptional education for every child. Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228. RSVP here

Tuesday, September 27th, 6:30pm
Poll Observer Training – Team Spanberger (multiple dates available)
Join Team Spanberger to play a vital role in protecting the vote by becoming a Poll Observer! Poll Observers ensure that every eligible voter can cast a ballot at polling places across the district during Early Voting and on Election Day.  Poll Observers must attend a training to review Virginia’s election law, the reporting structure for Observers, and tips and tricks to being a good Poll Observer. At this training, we will give you all of the information and resources you’ll need to be a Poll Observer in that district.  Team Spanberger staff will work with you to assign you to a polling location that meets your needs as well as the community’s needs.  Sign up now to defend democracy! RSVP here

Week of September 11th

WofA Armchair Fundraiser
for Elaine Luria is still open!
To donate click HERE

Saturday, September 17, 10:30am
Canvass – Matt de Ferranti for Arlington County Board and Bethany Sutton for Arlington School Board
Mark Teel’s Home in Arlington – Contact Mark at:  Mark@mattforcountyboard.com for further details.

Sunday, Sept. 18 from 11 am to 2 pm 
Arlington Blue Families
Come join Arlington Dem’s Blue Families’ annual family-friendly potluck picnic, this year featuring Rep. Abigail Spanberger!  Details to come on their FB page HERE.

https://www.facebook.com/events/s/arlington-blue-families-potluc/750373576182223/

Saturday, September 17th, 1:30pm
Sunday, September 18th, 11:00
All In To Win Canvass for Democracy – Elaine Luria
Knock doors or write postcards to go ALL IN TO WIN FOR ELAINE! We are challenging volunteers, democratic party & advocacy leaders, elected officials, and 2022 & 2023 candidates to sign up! Even better, you can form your own team of Elaine supporters by asking friends, constituents, & lovers of democracy to join you!  For those not able to knock doors, we will have a postcard writing station ready for you to write to Elaine voters.Team Elaine will provide a full training before you go out to knock on doors, & provide you with a script & info on Elaine’s positions to make sure you’re prepared to have conversations with voters!
September 17th RSVP here
September 18th RSVP here

Saturday, September 17th, 2:00pm
Demystifying Dobbs: A #ConstitutionDay Event
The clouds have entered the sky and these are certainly very stormy times for #women and pregnant people, so join us to break it all down, to learn, and to vent with Professors Anne Coughlin & Bonnie Gordon from University of Virginia #Roe.  Join us for a virtual panel you won’t want to miss hosted by #VirginiaNOW & NOW chapters statewide!  RSVP here

Sunday, September 18th, 3:00pm
Blue Victory 2022 War Room: National GOTV Strategy Session 
Grassroots discussion of DNC Meeting/Netroots Nation as well as DNC, Swing Left and other national campaign events/resources

Sunday, September 18th, 4:00pm
Blue Victory 2022 War Room: Virginia GOTV Strategy Session 
Grassroots discussion of VA Women’s Summit and Virginia campaign events/resources

Sunday, September 18th, 8:00pm
Blue Victory 2022 Social Ambassador Kickoff 
Grassroots discussion of strategies, tactics and resources for friend-to-friend, social media outreach and other forms of relational engagement with voters/volunteers

Tuesday, September 20th, 7pm – 9pm
An Evening in Support of Virginia’s Congresswomen
Please join Frances Craig and Peter Hapworth, Barbara and Jim Tombros, and special guest, Senator Tim Kaine in supporting guests Elaine Luria, Abigail Spanberger & Jennifer Wexton! RSVP here

Tuesday September 20th 6:30pm-9pm
Outdoor Evening Reception for Congressman Gerry Connolly & Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger
Please join host Sue Langley for an Outdoor Evening Reception / Fundraiser for Congressman Gerry Connolly (CD11) and Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (CD07) to support their reelection campaigns.  Our support is essential to ensure their return to the House of Representatives. RSVP here 

Friday, September 23rd
Early Voting Begins!
October 17th – Deadline to Register or Update an Existing Registration. More Details Here

Enjoy the Women’s Summit in Virginia Beach this weekend!

Update from Planned Parent Advocates of VA’s Political Director, Han Jones. Please see the following link for updates; resources and information on the latest developments since SCOTUS overturned Roe v Wade: PPAV Update

Week of September 4th

Monday, September 12th, 6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Monthly Membership Meeting 
First monthly meeting after our summer break!  We’ll kick off our fall push for Congresswoman Elaine Luria’s re-election with an update from one of our WofA-supported Luria campaign organizers, and unveil new opportunities to help. In the meantime, please contribute to our WofA armchair fundraiser for her. https://secure.actblue.com/donate/luriawofa Zoom Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81115481733

ACTION & EVENTS

Wednesday, September 7th 
Defend Reproductive Freedom 
Please join the Virginia Reproductive Equity Alliance in defending our reproductive freedom from anti-abortion extremists on September 7th during Youngkin’s special session to seek a 15-week abortion ban. Buses from NoVA and Hampton Roads to Richmond. More Info and RSVP here

Thursday, September 8th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
The Fight for Pennsylvania with Senate Candidate John Fetterman
Join NOPE’s September meeting to learn all about PA!  Speakers include:  John Fetterman, Dem candidate for the U.S. Senate and current PA Lt. Governor. John is running against Republican Mehmet Oz (“Dr. Oz”) for the seat vacated by retiring Republican Pat Toomey, having won the Democratic primary in all of PA’s Congressional districts.Strong voter turnout for John will not only give the Democrats another Senator, but also help PA Democratic gubernatorial candidate Josh Shapiro, PA Democratic candidates for Congress, and candidates in potentially flippable state legislature districts win their races.  Jamie Perrapato, Executive Director of NOPE’s grassroots partner, Turn PA Blue. An activist who’s a champion for voting rights and dedicated to getting progressive candidates elected at every level of government, Jamie will tell us about Turn PA Blue’s strategy for those “down-ballot” races.  Two members of CASA in Action — Executive Director Alonzo Washington and PA State Director Daniel Alvalle. CASA in Action is the foremost Latino and immigrant organization in the mid-Atlantic region and a national leader in supporting immigrant families and ensuring that all individuals have the core supports necessary for full participation in society. 

Thursday, September 8th, 5:00pm
No MVP Rally (in DC)
Third Act Event to support Appalachian Resistance.  Rally with other groups to protest the Mountain Valley Pipeline.  There will be lobbying during the day that will be done by front line communities and those directly affected by the Pipelines.  Hoping to have 500 for the rally that starts at 5 pm. Here is an article that explains the damage already done and the risks this pipeline will have to an entire region: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/aug/26/joe-manchin-west-virginia-mountain-valley-pipeline. RSVP for the rally here: https://tinyurl.com/nodirtydeal

Friday, September 9th, noon
Power Lunch – RSVP here.

Saturday, September 10th, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge
Join Team Spanberger as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Monday, September 12th, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room
Weekly briefing on upcoming actions and resources from DNC, VA Campaigns/Groups. RSVP here

Tuesday, September 13th, 7:00pm
Fundraiser for 2 premier Black-led voter mobilization groups in NC
Governor Roy Cooper as keynote Governor Cooper is the keynote because the fundraiser is deemed so important.  Sponsored by DC Ward 3 Dems and 7 other groups. See videos:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57vVnuv_TPg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ewdgxw3kb18bv04/NC%20APREF%20Video%20D3.mp4?dl=0
RSVP and donate:   https://secure.actblue.com/donate/get_out_the_vote_in_nc?refcode=Ward_3_Dems. Contact Anne at annecau@gmail.com with any questions

Sunday, Sept. 18 from 11 am to 2 pm
Blue Families 
Come join Arlington Dem’s Blue Families’ annual family-friendly potluck picnic, this year featuring Rep. Abigail Spanberger!  Details to come, more info HERE.

Saturday, September 17, 1:30pm
All-In-To-Win Canvass for Democracy – Elaine Luria
Knock doors or write postcards to go ALL IN TO WIN FOR ELAINE! We are challenging volunteers, democratic party & advocacy leaders, elected officials, and 2022 & 2023 candidates to sign up! Even better, you can form your own team of Elaine supporters by asking friends, constituents, & lovers of democracy to join you!  For those not able to knock doors, we will have a postcard writing station ready for you to write to Elaine voters.Team Elaine will provide a full training before you go out to knock on doors, & provide you with a script & info on Elaine’s positions to make sure you’re prepared to have conversations with voters! RSVP here

Saturday, September 17th, 2:00pm
Demystifying Dobbs: A #ConstitutionDay Event
The clouds have entered the sky and these are certainly very stormy times for #women and pregnant people, so join us to break it all down, to learn, and to vent with Professors Anne Coughlin & Bonnie Gordon from University of Virginia #Roe.  Join us for a virtual panel you won’t want to miss hosted by #VirginiaNOW & NOW chapters statewide!   RSVP here

Tuesday, September 20th, 7pm – 9pm
An Evening in Support of Virginia’s Congresswomen
Please join Frances Craig and Peter Hapworth, Barbara and Jim Tombros, and special guest, Senator Tim Kaine in supporting guests Elaine Luria, Abigail Spanberger & Jennifer Wexton! RSVP here

Tuesday September 20th 6:30pm-9pm
Outdoor Evening Reception for Congressman Gerry Connolly & Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger
Please join host Sue Langley for an Outdoor Evening Reception / Fundraiser for Congressman Gerry Connolly (CD11) and Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (CD07) to support their reelection campaigns.  Our support is essential to ensure their return to the House of Representatives. RSVP here 

Thursday, September 22, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
The FCDC National Affairs Committee Forum, “A Republic, If You Can Keep It”
Featured speakers will include Dr. Drew Westen, John Flannery II, and David Pepper. They will explore the increasing threats to our democracy posed by Republicans at the federal and state levels and what Democrats can do to fight back. More details and RSVP here

Saturday, Sept. 24 – Sunday, Sept. 25
Luria Canvass – Veterans and Military Families Caucus & LGBTQ+ Democrats of VA 
Join in this huge joint Weekend of Action – come out to knock on doors across Virginia Beach to talk to voters about Elaine, find out what issues are most important to them, and identify Elaine voters here.

Saturday, September 24th, 9:00am to 3:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
Get inspired, learn and network with experts and advocates from around the Commonwealth! We aim to ensure our public schools stay public as we strive for equity and an exceptional education for every child. Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228 RSVP here

Monday, October 17th
Deadline to Register to Vote or Change Your Address!
More Information Here: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot/calendars-schedules/upcoming-elections.html

CALL TO ACTION

Call to Action – Inflation Reduction Act & Mountain Valley Pipeline’s Deception
The Inflation Reduction Act was passed after a deal was made with Sen. Manchin to greenlight legislation on reducing natural gas pipeline permit regulations. This deal was based on Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP)’s deception. Any deal based on lies must be cancelled. Learn more about the deal and amplify this Blue Virginia article Stop MVP’s Lies and FERC’s Negligence From Destroying Our Country’s Environment. 

CTA 1 
Use this easy portal to send emails to your members of Congress. Help spread the word by using this Truth Tour digital toolkit (still under construction) and encourage others to contact Congress by sharing this social media post.

CTA 2
Contact your DNC representatives to support Resolution 16 that will be voted on at the Sept. 8 DNC meeting. Contact Freeda Cathcart if you have the emails for Elaine Kamarch, Levar Stoney and  Dave Leichtman. This Google doc will be updated with their contact information. Emails for some of them: dleighman@gmail.com, joshua@jgcole.org, elizabethguzmanfordelegate@gmail.com, info@atimafordnc.com, dcmays@va-aflcio.org Twitter handles for some of them and tweet you can retweet to them: @EKamarck, @LevarStoney, @atima_omara, @dleichtman, @guzman4virginia, @JoshuaCole

CTA 3
Show up on Sept. 8 to support the Stop MVP and People vs Fossil Fuels Rally in DC! Go here for more information and help to spread the word!!!

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION/OPPORTUNITIES

Luria Phonebank Opportunities
https://www.mobilize.us/luriaforcongress/event/442115/
Other Luria Opportunities:  
https://www.mobilize.us/luriaforcongress/

Luria Postcards
ATTENTION WofA Postcard writers!  
We have Get-out-the-Vote postcards for Elaine Luria. Please order your GOTV postcards here.

Update from Planned Parent Advocates of VA’s Political Director, Han Jones. Please see the following link for updates; resources and information on the latest developments since SCOTUS overturned Roe v Wade: PPAV Update

Canvassing Conversations – for new and veteran canvassers! Watch on your own and share with friends this great new training video on Canvassing from 31st Street Swing Left and Turn PA Blue. The 28-minute video is well worth your time, demystifying everything from key terms (MiniVan, high-potential voters, turf) to having deep conversations and the different types of encounters you may have during canvassing.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8SzuTKD8BA

Be a Poll Observer!
Poll observers are the eyes and ears for the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Voter Protection Team at polling locations across the state. You will help us ensure that eligible Virginians are able to successfully cast their ballot, which makes poll observing the single most important thing you can do to guarantee a strong, healthy democracy. Info and Sign-up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjqUsFR5WDK5TC5wT-7x6jZoCvLWIFM2mABRfwLh0SI4sAjQ/viewform

Week of August 28th

Luria Postcards
ATTENTION WofA Postcard writers!
We have Get-Out-The-Vote postcards for Elaine Luria. Please order your GOTV postcards here!

Update from Planned Parent Advocates of VA’s Political Director, Han Jones. Please see the following link for updates; resources and information on the latest developments since SCOTUS overturned Roe v Wade: PPAV Update

Tuesday, August 30th, 6:00pm
MoneyOut: Campaign Finance Reform Meeting
The agenda includes: 1) Lessons in effective advocacy: Let’s learn from recent legislative testimony from Wyoming. 2) Review and planning for upcoming legislator meetings. 3) Outreach: Women’s Summit in Virginia Beach, Providence Dems, 4) Revisiting our advocacy documents. 5) What’s up (or not) with the Joint Sub-Committee on Campaign Finance reform? Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89983440649?pwd=aEZRZm1URkNtK1ptWENWNlFkRnN4UT09

Tuesday, August 30th, 8pm ET
State Power Series Virtual Panel Event // co-hosted by Sister District & Vote Save America
Please join Sister District and Vote Save America on Tuesday, August 30 for the State Power Series Event 2: The Insurrection will be Decentralized – Election Subversion: The Role of State Legislatures in the Fight for our Democracy. This is part of our virtual event series to build narratives around the growing importance of building progressive state power.  Panelists: Brian Beutler, Crooked Media editor-in-chief and host of the podcast Positively Dreadful, Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, Pennsylvania State Representative for the 181st Legislative District, and Dahlia Lithwick, senior editor at Slate and host of the podcast Amicus. Moderators: Sister District Co-founder Gaby Goldstein and Crooked Media Senior Political Director Shaniqua McClendon. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/sisterdistrict/event/464892/ 

Wednesday, August 31st, 8:00pm ET
Progressive Democrats of America National Congressional Liaison Meeting – Stop the Mountain Valley Pipeline
We will be organizing to oppose the Manchin “Side Deal” legislation that is designed to weaken or strip environmental oversight regulations that protect frontline communities, and the environment in general. One of the main Manchin side deal goals is to fast track the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) in Virginia. PDA is working with Food and Water Watch on this. Email Stephen Spitz for the Zoom link: stephenlspitz@icloud.com

Thursday, September 1st, 6:30pm
Virginia Political Update – Understanding Virginia’s Political Landscape in a Post-Roe World
In the post-Roe world, state-level politics are more important than ever.  Join PPAV for a webinar ahead of Youngkin’s upcoming Special Session to learn more about how the Virginia state legislature operates, the state of abortion in Virginia right now and how PPAV is mobilizing to keep abortion legal and accessible across the Commonwealth.  RSVP here: https://bit.ly/VAUpdROE 

Friday, September 2nd, 12:00pm
Power Lunch RSVP here

Saturday, September 3rd, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge
Join Team Spanberger as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Sunday, September 4th, 12:00pm – 3:30pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Team Spanberger to canvass in Prince William County to #SpanThe7th! We are so excited to talk to voters about Abigail and get them ready for this year’s election. Training, literature, and water will be provided. RSVP here

Monday, September 5th, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room
Weekly briefing on upcoming actions and resources from DNC, VA Campaigns/Groups. RSVP here

September 8, 7:00 PM
NOPE Neighbors zoom with John Fetterman – Democratic candidate for Senate from Pennsylvania
Learn more about the state of play in nearby Pennsylvania from the incomparable John Fetterman, and hear from activists at Turn PA Blue and CASA in Action about how we win in this battleground state in November.  Sign up here 

September 17-18
Weekend of Action for Elaine Luria – save the date
Join Mom’s Demand, Young Democrats and others (and if you’re attending the Women’s Summit in Virginia Beach, so convenient) 

Sister District & Partners Phonebanks
Republicans start at the top of the ticket and vote all the way down. Democrats start at the top and often “roll off” before getting to state and local races. States are where the action is, from abortion to guns to education. Join Sister District and 20+ partners to clean voter data, identify supporters, and recruit local volunteers for state house candidates in AZ, GA, MI, NC, NV, PA, and WI.   Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/sisterdistrict/event/387377/

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Week of August 14th

ACTION & EVENTS

Thursday, August 18th, 5:00pm
Early Voting Working Group Meeting
Join fellow activists to plan our outreach strategies for Early Voting.
Zoom link:https://georgetown.zoom.us/j/93433128624 

Thursday, August 18th, 1:00pm
Briefing: How the Inflation Reduction Act will Cut Prescription Drug Costs, Lower Health Insurance Premiums and Expand Coverage Special Guests Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services Andrea Palm
RSVP:https://pitc.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_LfSsDsUVTxuSV5WvT-2qHQ

Thursday, August 18th, 3:00pmBriefing: How the Inflation Reduction Act will benefit Rural Americans
RSVP:https://pitc.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_58SjeyOvS-SLh_4bkHK9zQ

Saturday August 20-Sunday August 21
Weekend of Action for Abigail Spanberger in Montclair, VA
More than ever we need to knock on doors to energize our base, inspire our independents and convert our moderate republicans to vote for Abigail Spanberger, a person of trust and integrity.  #SpanThe7th
Sign up here https://mobilize.us/s/kgrjhf

Saturday, August 20, 10:00 am-noon
Virtual Summit on Reproductive Rights
Register here
Join us for a virtual Reproductive Rights Summit. The summit will focus on how to support local direct, practical assistance needed for those seeking abortion care, and on political advocacy for reproductive justice. Panelists  include representatives from the New River, Blue Ridge, and DC Abortion Funds, Sen. Barbara Favola, Rev. Andrea Vassell of SACRED, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia, and Andrea Miller of the Center for Common Ground. Sponsored by Rock Spring Congregational Church in Arlington.

August 27
Grassroots Canvass for Democracy – Loudoun County
SIGN UP NOW! Join Team Wexton at our big Weekend of Action Canvass for Democracy kickoff in Leesburg for the ’22 election cycle! Partnering with the Loudoun County Democrats and Loudoun Grassroots Coalition we will be joined by local elected officials, guest speakers and Rep. Jennifer Wexton.  We have all seen the news recently: gun violence in our schools and communities, the ongoing and very serious threat to our democracy, and now the stripping away of a woman’s right to control her own body and healthcare.  Now more than ever, canvassing is critical for engaging with voters and sharing Jennifer’s vision for the VA10 so we can fight back and win. We cannot do it without you.
RSVP here

Monday, September 12th, 6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Monthly Membership Meeting – SAVE THE DATE
First monthly meeting after our summer break!  We’ll kick off our fall push for Congresswoman Elaine Luria’s re-election with an update from one of our WofA-supported Luria campaign organizers, unveil new opportunities to help. In the meantime, please contribute to our WofA armchair fundraiser for her. https://secure.actblue.com/donate/luriawofa

September 17-18
Weekend of Action for Elaine Luria – save the date
Join Mom’s Demand, Young Democrats and others (and if you’re attending the Women’s Summit in Virginia Beach, so convenient) 

Saturday, September 24th, 9:00am to 3:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
Get inspired, learn and network with experts and advocates from around the Commonwealth! We aim to ensure our public schools stay public as we strive for equity and an exceptional education for every child. Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228 RSVP here

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION

Planned Parenthood’s Post-Roe Update: Kansas Elections – Successes and Takeaways
Thank you to Planned Parenthood’s, Han Jones, for providing this thorough update: https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/planned-parenthood-advocates-virginia-inc/press-releases/statement-on-kansas-election-results-voters-support-abortion-rights-and-are-watching

Week of August 7th

Sign up to help share information on early voting and purchase “Vote Early” yard signs: https://forms.gle/4ej3VA4JCFJtjGo17

Wednesday, August 10, 8:00pm
Engage Black Voters
Participate in the upcoming NOVA voter education and registration planning session as we discuss voter behavior and strategies to engage Black voters in the Northern Virginia Region. 

Thursday, August 11, 7:00 pm
Intro to Canvassing with Indivisible Waterfront
Our friends at Indivisible Waterfront invite us to join their zoom intro to canvassing this Thursday evening. Perfect for those new to canvassing or needing a refresher.  Sign up here

Friday August 12 – Saturday August 13th
Women’s Summit
Link to RSVP and More Info Here: https://networknova.org

Saturday, August 13, 10:00 AM
Canvass for Rep. Abigail Spanberger in Woodbridge VA (CD-7)
Join Indivisible Waterfront , WofA’s and others to canvass for Rep Spanberger’s re-election in nearby Woodbridge (address upon registration).   To hold the U. S. House, we must ensure Abigail returns to Congress.  Here are a few reasons why she’s good for Virginia and the nation. She

• Doesn’t accept corporate PAC donations.
• Is Vice Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus.
• Introduced a bill to ban Members of Congress and their spouses from buying, trading, and selling individual stocks.
• Introduced the bipartisan “Strengthening Supply Chains Through the Truck Driver Incentive Act” to help Virginia trucking companies recruit and retain drivers.
• Introduced the “Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act” to cut costs at the gas pump and grocery store and more. The bill recently passed the U.S. House.
• Voted to support the Chips and Science Act to boost semiconductor manufacturing in Virginia and in the U.S. 
  To register: https://forms.gle/QJYwehdAX6yoeEEZ7

Monday, September 12th, 6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Monthly Membership Meeting
Save the Date – details to follow!

Saturday, September 24th, 9:00am to 3:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
Get inspired, learn and network with experts and advocates from around the Commonwealth! We aim to ensure our public schools stay public as we strive for equity and an exceptional education for every child. Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228RSVP here

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION

Rideshare2Vote – Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator
Rideshare2Vote is again offering free rides to the polls for Democrats in Virginia.  We will try to service any voter from any area of the state, but our primary focus is in Northern Virginia (Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria etc. on down to Fredericksburg), the Charlottesville area, Richmond and surrounding counties, and the Hampton Roads area (City of Hampton, City of Norfolk, and City of Virginia Beach primarily).  We had many more ride requests than we had drivers in these areas in 2021 and want to be fully prepared to drive every voter in November 2022.  In addition to driver volunteers, we have other work-from-home volunteer opportunities as well (phone bankers and dispatch operators primarily).  We provide training to drivers on our smartphone app that connects drivers and voters and directs the drivers to the correct pickup and voting locations – trainings are held online throughout the summer, and we may, depending upon demand, need specialty drivers willing to drive wheelchair accessible vehicles which we rent.  We will drive for at least 1 week of early voting plus election day, November 8.  Please help us make sure no Democratic voter gets left behind!  Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator at: https://rides2vote.com/volunteer-application/ You can use this flyer for recruiting.  Contact: Tracy Scott – 713.922.0955. Tracy.Scott@RideShare2Vote.com

Week of July 31st

High Priority
August 1st – 3rd (due by TODAY Wednesday 1)
We are reaching out to draw your attention to a dangerous “Don’t Say Gay” effort taking place in our state at this very moment, and to ask you to take just a few minutes to take action against it.  Please also share with friends who would be allies in this effort.  Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed into law SB 656, a Republican bill that takes aim at eliminating materials from schools that the state deems “sexually explicit.” These efforts are eerily similar to the Florida Don’t Say Gay bill that has forced Florida educators to remove Safe Space stickers from classroom doors and created a widespread chilling effect among openly-LGBTQ+ staff. Virginia’s version of the “Don’t Say Gay” bill has been signed into law—but you have a chance to impact how those rules are implemented in our schools. Virginia’s Department of Education is in the process of developing a Draft Guidance document based on the vague definitions of “sexually explicit content” already existing in Virginia state law and they’re taking public comment until 11:59 PM on August 3rd.  Once finalized, this document could be used to make LGBTQ+ students and staff in Virginia feel fearful and invisible. We need you to make your voices heard during this process.
ACTION: To make a public comment on SB 656, please click the link here (if you get an error, please copy and paste the whole link in your browser):
https://townhall.virginia.gov/L/comments.cfm?GDocForumID=1881&fbclid=IwAR3mFKSt6g8NDkp32018zVqzHtBblth_dhou8FfQugBX2hC2v1q1nIjrN2M
Sample Comments 1 and Sample Comments 2
Thanks for all of your work supporting Virginia’s LGBTQ+ community! Please let me know if you have any questions. Courtney Thomas (she/her), for the New River Valley Indivisible Education Working Group, dr.courtney.thomas@gmail.com 

Friday, August 5th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch. RSVP here

Saturday, August 6  12:00pm – 2:00pm
Exploring Careers in Politics for Girls WebinarExploring Careers in Politics for Girls Webinar introduces girls ages 12 to 17 to a range of professional opportunities available in the political sector. Students also learn about ways to gain invaluable experience in the political arena through internships, page programs and volunteering. The class culminates with a 20 minute Q & A about working in the political sector. Looking for more events?  Register Here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/girlsinpoliticsinitiative/732991/
View our 2022-2023 schedule at https://buytickets.at/girlsinpoliticsinitiative

Saturday August 6th, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge
Join Team Spanberger as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Sunday, August 7th, 12:30pm – 3:30pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Team Spanberger to canvass in Prince William County to #SpanThe7th! We are so excited to talk to voters about Abigail and get them ready for this year’s election. Training, literature, and water will be provided. RSVP here

Monday, August 8th, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room
Weekly briefing on upcoming actions and resources from DNC, VA Campaigns/Groups.
RSVP here

Monday, September 12th, 6:45pm – 8:00pm
WofA Monthly Membership Meeting
Save the Date – details to follow!

Saturday, September 24th, 9:00am to 3:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
Get inspired, learn and network with experts and advocates from around the Commonwealth! We aim to ensure our public schools stay public as we strive for equity and an exceptional education for every child.
Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228 RSVP here

CURRENT/ONGOING CALLS TO ACTION

Rural Voter Messaging Fundraiser
Help us purchase billboards and other means to get messaging out to rural high potential voters in Virginia’s  2nd CD – funds will be used to support a layered effort that supports rural Democrats in communicating to their neighbors in areas outside of the campaigns reach. This is a critical district to hold and we need to engage as many voters as possible. For maximum effect, we are planning to have billboards in place by late August. Host in-person and/or virtual event to raise funds to reach these rural voters. Donate here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/billboardcd2

VOTER PROTECTON Positions – URGENT!
Sign up to be an Election Day Fairfax County Election Officer – 1st Deadline August 12th. Fairfax is the largest county in Virginia and needs people to work 5 AM to approximately 9 PM on Election Day – November 8th. Training is provided, and you can receive $175 for the day’s work. Anyone who will be 18 by November 8, 2022 is eligible. Please see the following link to sign up: https://www.vote4fairfax.com/ElectionOfficerApplication.aspx#!hash

Fairfax County Elections Office is HIRING for Election season – Deadline extended to Fri. Aug 5th!
The Office of Elections is currently hiring about 100 individuals to help prepare for the November 2022 election! Positions range from 1 week in length to the full election season and include opportunities to work at early voting locations, process absentee mail ballots, process voter registration applications, help with HR or IT, work as a Rover, research provisional ballots, or generally work in our office. For more information and to apply, visit the application form: https://form.jotform.com/FairfaxElections/seasonal-positions-application

Week of July 17th

Rep. Elaine Luria Campaign Update!
Several WofAs joined other Activists from NoVA & DC in Virginia Beach for a weekend of action for Elaine Luria, organized by WofA’s Sharon Shutler. We knocked doors of Independents, Undecided and some Republican voters to engage in conversations about what issues are of most importance to them now, and whether they’d consider supporting Rep. Luria. It was heartening to have these conversations and find common ground, particularly for those of us feeling discouraged or alarmed about our current sate of politics (including some of us who dislike canvassing!). It was also amazing to be together with other activists, to hear Rep. Luria, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, and Virginia state lawmakers. Also, WofAs have completed over 2500 postcards introducing Rep. Luria to voters who are new to her district. We expect another round of GOTV postcards later in the election cycle. And finally, if you can watch or listen to the January 6th Committee hearing this Thursday evening, July 21, you’ll get to see Congresswoman Luria helm the panel as they cover the “187 minutes” of Trump’s inaction during the takeover of the Capitol.
Luria Phonebank Opportunities – Highest Priority!
https://www.mobilize.us/luriaforcongress/event/442115/

UPCOMING EVENTS/CALLS TO ACTION

Wednesday, July 20th, 6:30pm 
5th Annual Interfaith Eid Celebration – Break Bread with Friends and Neighbors
Join us for the 5th Annual Interfaith Eid Celebration Wednesday at Lubber Run Community Center! Featuring: Inspirational messages from leaders of three faith traditions, free traditional Halal meal, live music and entertainment, food donation station for Arlington Food Assistance Center, voter registration table…and more!!! RSVP: https://fb.me/e/3yHZbT83o

Friday, July 22nd, 12:00pm
Power Lunch. RSVP here

Sunday, July 24th, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge
Join Team Spanberger as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Sunday, July 24th, 12:30pm – 3:30pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Team Spanberger to canvass in Prince William County to #SpanThe7th! We are so excited to talk to voters about Abigail and get them ready for this year’s election. Training, literature, and water will be provided.
RSVP here

Sunday, July 24th, 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Rural Ground Game Fundraising Event – Solidarity Bash
Join us to support Rural Congressional candidates in CD-1, CD-5, CD6 and CD-9.  This Shenandoah Valley event will celebrate the power of rural voters and our fabulous rural candidates with music and food – You do not need to attend in person to show your solidarity in supporting candidates. These candidates need our show of support – all funding will be divided equally among the candidates unless specified.  
Donate and RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/ruralgroundgame/event/475575/

Wednesday, July 27th, 8:30 p.m.
Zoom with  Cheri Beasley, Democratic US Senate Candidate for North Carolina
Volunteer recruitment event sponsored by Beyond Arlington, Together We Elect, others.
RSVP here:  https://www.mobilize.us/togetherweelect/event/476478/

July 30-31st
Beyond Arl/Blue Families Bucks County, PA Canvassing
Join Beyond Arlington and Blue Families for a weekend of door-knocking in Bucks County, PA.  Bucks is ground zero for saving democracy: this swing suburban county just north of Philadelphia needs to vote big for
-John Fetterman for US Senate (so we can flip Toomey’s old seat and pick up the two seats we need to end the filibuster)
-Josh Shapiro for Governor (so we can defeat certified fascist lunatic Doug Mastriano and prevent a coup in 2024)
-Ashley Ehasz for US House (so we can flip a swing seat and help hold the House)
-Not to mention state house and senate races– remember, some states actually combine federal and state elections!
We’re planning on leaving Friday evening and returning Sunday afternoon.  For mortals not named Kip or Steve, that translates to 2 canvassing packets Saturday and one on Sunday morning.  But of course you can come later or leave earlier.  We will also be obtaining volunteer housing and defraying the cost of gas and meals for those who need it, and we’ll be bonding with a group dinner in beautiful Doylestown, PA on Saturday night.  We look forward to seeing everyone soon. Sign Up Here

CURRENT/ONGOING

Luria Phonebank Opportunities – Highest Priority!
https://www.mobilize.us/luriaforcongress/event/442115/

Rural Voter Messaging Fundraiser
Help us purchase billboards and other means to get messaging out to rural high potential voters in Virginia’s  2nd CD – funds will be used to support a layered effort that supports rural Democrats in communicating to their neighbors in areas outside of the campaigns reach. This is a critical district to hold and we need to engage as many voters as possible. For maximum effect, we are planning to have billboards in place by late August. Host in-person and/or virtual event to raise funds to reach these rural voters. Donate here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/billboardcd2

Help bring Campaign Finance Reform to Virginia!
Push VA Legislators & the Governor to convene the Joint Subcommittee on Campaign Finance Reform to review the Commonwealth’s laws and promote reform. ACTION: Click here to email Committee Chairs, Governor Youngkin, and your VA legislators.

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

Join “Hear Our Voice”, an informal group of singers
Are mere words not enough to express your feelings about the recent assaults on our rights? Consider joining “Hear Our Voice”, an informal group of singers being formed to express our outrage in song, and contribute the power of music to the progressive movement. The group will attend demonstrations and sing both old and new protest songs as our way of raising our voices. No experience necessary, just a willingness to sing in public. Contact Emily Haines at persephoneunderground@gmail.com to join, or just to find out more!

Week of July 12th

UPCOMING EVENTS/CALLS TO ACTION

Friday, July 14th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP here

July 16-17, Virginia Beach
Canvass for Elaine Luria – Courageous Congresswoman on the January 6 Commission. Join WofA, NOPE Neighbors and VADF to canvass for Elaine in Virginia Beach.  Now, more than ever, we need this talented Congresswoman to continue to represent Virginia. Virginia Dems have always known that Elaine Luria is the real deal.  And, as a member of the January 6 Commission, her capabilities and moral fiber have been displayed before the entire country.  Nevertheless, Elaine needs our help!  After the Virginia redistricting, she is one of the most endangered Dems in the US House of Representatives, and her Republican opponent, Delegate Jennifer Kiggins, is a formidable candidate. Her campaign has reached out to us to help with early canvassing.   Sign up to join the grassroots fun!
For more information, contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com
Saturday, July 16th, 6pm-9pm

Monday, July 18th
NAACP – Arlington Branch Monthly Meeting
Join Commonwealth’s Attorney, Parisa Dehghani-Tafti, at the NAACP’s monthly meeting. Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvdu-gpzkpE9XJn5vI3Fy-LO6f1r0qli7V

Monday, July 18th, 7:00pm
You and the 34%: How to Have Meaningful Conversations with High-Potential Voters  (Part of the Women’s Summit Online Events)
In 2020, 34% of eligible voters didn’t vote. In this training, you will learn how to make “I don’t vote” the beginning of the conversation, not the end. Dr. Jacqueline Tulsky and Elizabeth Chur share stories of success, and give you tools drawn from Motivational Interviewing to help you draw out “high-potential voters,” elicit their desires for change, and turn them into voters. Whether you’re new to canvassing and phone-banking or have been doing it for years, this interactive training is designed for you. There is still time to get a ticket to the Women’s Summit at https://networknova.org. Online events are included with all the in-person events. 

Monday, July 18th, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room
Weekly briefing on upcoming actions and resources from DNC, VA Campaigns/Groups. RSVP here

Tuesday, July 19th, 1:00pm
Statehouse Futures: Progressive Policy and Strategy Summit
I’m writing to invite you or a member of your staff to join us for Statehouse Futures, a progressive policy and strategy summit for a new generation of leaders, co-hosted by the Ballot Initiative Strategy Center, Run for Something Action Fund, and the Democracy Policy Network. With our federal government at a destructive standstill, the states are as important as ever. That’s why we’re organizing a virtual forum for state legislators, candidates, staff, and organizers from across the country to engage with the movement’s leading policy experts and champions like yourself. Our full schedule and the growing list of speakers are available at www.StatehouseFutures.org. RSVP HERE TO ATTEND (Registration is free)

Wednesday, July 20th, 6:30pm 
5th Annual Interfaith Eid Celebration – Break Bread with Friends and Neighbors
Join us for the 5th Annual Interfaith Eid Celebration Wednesday at Lubber Run Community Center! Featuring: Inspirational messages from leaders of three faith traditions, free traditional Halal meal, live music and entertainment, food donation station for Arlington Food Assistance Center, voter registration table…and more!!! RSVP: https://fb.me/e/3yHZbT83o

Sunday, July 24th, 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Rural Ground Game Fundraising Event – Solidarity Bash
Join us to support Rural Congressional candidates in CD-1, CD-5, CD6 and CD-9.  This Shenandoah Valley event will celebrate the power of rural voters and our fabulous rural candidates with music and food – You do not need to attend in person to show your solidarity in supporting candidates. These candidates need our show of support – all funding will be divided equally among the candidates unless specified.  
Donate and RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/ruralgroundgame/event/475575/

July 30-31st
Beyond Arl/Blue Families Bucks County, PA Canvassing
Join Beyond Arlington and Blue Families for a weekend of door-knocking in Bucks County, PA.  Bucks is ground zero for saving democracy: this swing suburban county just north of Philadelphia needs to vote big for
– John Fetterman for US Senate (so we can flip Toomey’s old seat and pick up the two seats we need to end the filibuster)
– Josh Shapiro for Governor (so we can defeat certified fascist lunatic Doug Mastriano and prevent a coup in 2024)
– Ashley Ehasz for US House (so we can flip a swing seat and help hold the House)
– Not to mention state house and senate races– remember, some states actually combine federal and state elections!
We’re planning on leaving Friday evening and returning Sunday afternoon.  For mortals not named Kip or Steve, that translates to 2 canvassing packets Saturday and one on Sunday morning.  But of course you can come later or leave earlier.  We will also be obtaining volunteer housing and defraying the cost of gas and meals for those who need it, and we’ll be bonding with a group dinner in beautiful Doylestown, PA on Saturday night.  We look forward to seeing everyone soon. Sign Up Here

CURRENT/ONGOING

Rural Voter Messaging Fundraiser
Help us purchase billboards and other means to get messaging out to rural high potential voters in Virginia’s  2nd CD – funds will be used to support a layered effort that supports rural Democrats in communicating to their neighbors in areas outside of the campaigns reach. This is a critical district to hold and we need to engage as many voters as possible. For maximum effect, we are planning to have billboards in place by late August. Host in-person and/or virtual event to raise funds to reach these rural voters. Donate here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/billboardcd2

Rideshare2Vote – Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator
Rideshare2Vote is again offering free rides to the polls for Democrats in Virginia.  We will try to service any voter from any area of the state, but our primary focus is in Northern Virginia (Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria etc. on down to Fredericksburg), the Charlottesville area, Richmond and surrounding counties, and the Hampton Roads area (City of Hampton, City of Norfolk, and City of Virginia Beach primarily).  We had many more ride requests than we had drivers in these areas in 2021 and want to be fully prepared to drive every voter in November 2022.  In addition to driver volunteers, we have other work-from-home volunteer opportunities as well (phone bankers and dispatch operators primarily).  We provide training to drivers on our smartphone app that connects drivers and voters and directs the drivers to the correct pickup and voting locations – trainings are held online throughout the summer, and we may, depending upon demand, need specialty drivers willing to drive wheelchair accessible vehicles which we rent.  We will drive for at least 1 week of early voting plus election day, November 8.  Please help us make sure no Democratic voter gets left behind!  Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator at: https://rides2vote.com/volunteer-application/ You can use this flyer for recruiting.  Contact: Tracy Scott – 713.922.0955. Tracy.Scott@RideShare2Vote.com

Help bring Campaign Finance Reform to Virginia!
Push VA Legislators & the Governor to convene the Joint Subcommittee on Campaign Finance Reform to review the Commonwealth’s laws and promote reform. ACTION: Click here to email Committee Chairs, Governor Youngkin, and your VA legislators.

Sister District & Partners Phonebanks
Republicans start at the top of the ticket and vote all the way down. Democrats start at the top and often “roll off” before getting to state and local races. States are where the action is, from abortion to guns to education. Join Sister District and 20+ partners to clean voter data, identify supporters, and recruit local volunteers for state house candidates in AZ, GA, MI, NC, NV, PA, and WI.   Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/sisterdistrict/event/387377/

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

Join “Hear Our Voice”, an informal group of singers
Are mere words not enough to express your feelings about the recent assaults on our rights? Consider joining “Hear Our Voice”, an informal group of singers being formed to express our outrage in song, and contribute the power of music to the progressive movement. The group will attend demonstrations and sing both old and new protest songs as our way of raising our voices. No experience necessary, just a willingness to sing in public. Contact Emily Haines at persephoneunderground@gmail.com to join, or just to find out more!

Week of July 3rd

Rideshare2Vote – Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator
Rideshare2Vote is again offering free rides to the polls for Democrats in Virginia.  We will try to service any voter from any area of the state, but our primary focus is in Northern Virginia (Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria etc. on down to Fredericksburg), the Charlottesville area, Richmond and surrounding counties, and the Hampton Roads area (City of Hampton, City of Norfolk, and City of Virginia Beach primarily).  We had many more ride requests than we had drivers in these areas in 2021 and want to be fully prepared to drive every voter in November 2022.  In addition to driver volunteers, we have other work-from-home volunteer opportunities as well (phone bankers and dispatch operators primarily).  We provide training to drivers on our smartphone app that connects drivers and voters and directs the drivers to the correct pickup and voting locations – trainings are held online throughout the summer, and we may, depending upon demand, need specialty drivers willing to drive wheelchair accessible vehicles which we rent.  We will drive for at least 1 week of early voting plus election day, November 8.  Please help us make sure no Democratic voter gets left behind!  Register to volunteer as a driver, phone banker, or dispatch operator at:  https://rides2vote.com/volunteer-application/  Thank you for your support!!!

Let’s Advocate Early for Campaign Finance Reform  
ACTION 1) Send your legislator a message requesting him/her to support campaign finance reform.Just click and send. Legislators say they don’t hear from their constituents. Let’s change this. 
ACTION 2) Are you a group? Please sign onto our letter advocating for campaign finance reform. It will be used to lobby with legislators, the Governor, the Bipartisan Caucus, and the Joint Subcommittee on Campaign Finance Reform.  We only have 14 groups signed on to-date.   Questions: Contact nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com.

ACTION – Now: Postcards for Reps Elaine Luria & Abigail Spanberger – through Arlington Blue Families
For more information: https://arlingtondemocrats.org/start-making-difference-now/blue-families/postcards/?fbclid=IwAR2XSUkH-fTmsekNJ4eZfVbYWLPx-n5ERuGfAWLGU6ACX5Kd1TyIPu_Ib9k

Join “Hear our Voice,” an informal group of singers
Are mere words not enough to express your feelings about the recent assaults on our rights? Consider joining “Hear Our Voice”, an informal group of singers being formed to express our outrage in song, and contribute the power of music to the progressive movement. The group will attend demonstrations and sing both old and new protest songs as our way of raising our voices. No experience necessary, just a willingness to sing in public. Contact Emily Haines at persephoneunderground@gmail.com to join, or just to find out more!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday, July 8th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch RSVP here

Saturday, July 9th, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Grassroots Canvass for Rep Abigail Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Indivisible Waterfront, Beyond Arlington, WofA, Blue Families and DC Ward 6 Dems to canvass for Rep. Abigail Spanberger!  Whether experienced or a first-time activist, join us for a welcome and canvassing orientation 7/7 at 7 PM. Joe Tennant, Spanberger’s Field Organizer for Prince William County, will join us. If you can’t canvass on the 9th, come to the orientation anyway.  Register to help us figure out potential carpooling and to receive more detailed information.  To register for either click: https://forms.gle/yZQdxwhkeqeMw3C97

Monday, July 11th, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room Weekly briefing and discussion of organizing/messaging strategies and tactics that grassroots democrats can use to coordinate with Virginia campaigns. RSVP here

July 16-17, Virginia Beach – WofA sponsored event!
Canvass for Elaine Luria – Courageous Congresswoman on Jan. 6th Commission
Hey WofAs – Virginia Dems have always known that Elaine Luria is the real deal.  And, as a member of the January 6 Commission, her capabilities and moral fiber have been displayed before the entire country.  Nevertheless, Elaine needs our help! After the Virginia redistricting, Elaine became one of the most endangered Dems in the US House of Representatives, and her Republican opponent, Delegate Jennifer Kiggins, is a formidable candidate. The Luria campaign has reached out to us to help with early canvassing.  Please join WofA, NOPE Neighbors and VADF to canvass for Elaine in Virginia Beach.  Now, more than ever, we need this talented Congresswoman to continue to represent Virginia.  Click HERE to sign up.  For more information, contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com

Wednesday, July 20th, 6:30pm 
5th Annual Interfaith Eid Celebration – Break Bread with Friends and Neighbors
Join us for the 5th Annual Interfaith Eid Celebration Wednesday at Lubber Run Community Center! Featuring: Inspirational messages from leaders of three faith traditions, free traditional Halal meal, live music and entertainment, food donation station for Arlington Food Assistance Center, voter registration table…and more!!!
RSVP: https://fb.me/e/3yHZbT83o

RECURRING Canvassing and Phonebanks

Sister District & Partners Phonebanks
Republicans start at the top of the ticket and vote all the way down. Democrats start at the top and often “roll off” before getting to state and local races. States are where the action is, from abortion to guns to education. Join Sister District and 20+ partners to clean voter data, identify supporters, and recruit local volunteers for state house candidates in AZ, GA, MI, NC, NV, PA, and WI.  
Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/sisterdistrict/event/387377/

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state.
RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats in the House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way.Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

Week of June 26th

ACTION – Roe v Wade:

DMV Abortion Practical Support Network (DAPSN) for a few years now are holding a virtual training for new volunteers on Thursday, July 7, at 6 PM EST. The group provides all around support for patients including housing, rides, companionship at the clinic, etc. Requests picked up noticeably after the new restrictions in Texas and will certainly skyrocket again now.  DAPSN has had an unprecedented number of volunteers applying, they ask that you fill out the google form and be patient! Volunteer here: https://dapsn.wordpress.com/volunteer-with-dapsn/?fbclid=IwAR3FEqZQFqEThPcVQp4wv49-jtuvqBPsL5geL1LU_T6TLKnNM1ma-Zaj3vI

REPRO Action (https://reproaction.org/)–formerly NARAL Virginia–is looking for volunteer drivers to pick up patients and get them to clinics here in VA.  Their website does not have a sign up form, but reach out–they will provide training too. Sometimes the pick up is at an airport, sometimes it is somewhere else–because they are coordinating rides all the way from SW Virginia.

The Reproductive Rights Action Center, located at arlingtondemocrats.org/roe, aims to provide community members, volunteers, and campaigns with the resources they need to take immediate action to protect and expand abortion access in the Commonwealth. It includes information on Virginia-based reproductive justice organizations, abortion funds, volunteer opportunities, and events to attend. It also features fact sheets on state and federal abortion law, how to talk about abortion with voters, and information on receiving abortion care in Virginia.

Donate to Abortion Funds in Virginia to support women who cannot afford the costs to get an abortion: Blue Ridge Abortion Fund, New River Abortion Access Fund, Richmond Reproductive Freedom Project, Hampton Roads Reproductive Justice League, and Access to Reproductive Care and Health (ARCH).

CALLS TO ACTION

Stop Dominion From Gouging Virginians on  Electricity – Easy 1-click no later than June 30th.
Dominion Energy charges some of the highest electricity bills in the country, and now is asking regulators to raise our bills by up to $24 a month at a time when inflation and skyrocketing gas prices are hurting Virginians.  WHY?  Dominion wants to pass along costs to us for its failure to transition away from fossil fuels. The utility could have listened to the experts ages ago by investing in energy efficiency and locally produced clean energy. Now that it is too late, Dominion is asking Virginians to shoulder the burden of fossil fuel volatility alone, leaving executive pay and shareholder dividends untouched.
ACTION: Please sign this petition to the Virginia State Corporation Commission, Dominion’s primary regulator.  For more information, contact Sharon Shutler, shutlersharon@gmail.com 

Thank Your Reps for Passing Gun Violence Prevention Legislation
Gun Violence Prevention legislation has finally passed both houses of Congress for the 1st time in decades! Let’s thank our reps who voted for this legislation, while reminding them that we still have more to do – particularly:
1. Ban Assault Weapons. 
2. Ban high capacity magazines.
3. Raise the age to buy military-style rifles to 21.
4. Ban bump stocks and ghost guns.
5. Require that all gun owners be licensed.
Contact your reps here: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/urge-your-senators-to-vote-for-hr-7910-protecting-our-kids-act

EVENTS

Tuesday, June 28th, 8:00pm
State Power Series – After Roe: Reproductive and Civil Rights Move to States
This panel is planned for the week we expect the Dobbs decision to be published. After Dobbs, abortion access will likely fully fall within the purview of states. Abortion access has never been universally guaranteed, and this development, as with prior restrictions, will disproportionately impact low income people, Black, Latino and Indigenous people, young and LGBTQ+ folks and people in rural areas. After decades of failed policies rooted in systemic racism and oppression, these folks will disproportionately lack the resources necessary to cross the expanding abortion desert to seek care. On the other hand, states including CO, CA, CT, and VA have expanded and enshrined the right to abortion services into state law. This panel will explore the conservative jurisprudential goal of narrowing federal protections and reverting civil and human rights issues back to states, and consider whether the end of Roe v. Wade is an example of how we may be experiencing the death of the ‘rights revolution.’ The panel will explore these trends and discuss what can be done to bring the civil and reproductive rights (and justice) revolution to our states.
Panelists: Erin Ryan, host of Crooked Media’s Hysteria podcast, Imani Gandy, Senior Editor of Law and Policy for Rewire News Group, and Leah Litman, Professor of Law at University of Michigan and host of Crooked Media’s Strict Scrutiny podcast. RSVP here

Friday, July 1st, 12:00pm
Power Lunch RSVP

ACTIONS

Become an Election Official or Poll Observer
Wondering how you can help with elections? Consider becoming an election official. This is why: Bannon is working to place far right election officials in election offices to help overturn elections so we need to sign up to be election officials. https://www.propublica.org/…/heeding-steve-bannons-call…
Info on How to Become an Election Official: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/officer-of-elections/
Become an Election Official in Arlington:
https://vote.arlingtonva.us/Elections/Apply-to-be-an-Election-Official
Become a Poll Observer (VA link currently not available – will update soon!)

Week of June 19th

Wednesday, June 22nd, at 6pm ET
Words to Win Our Future with Anat Shenker-Osorio
We’ll be joined by communications researcher and campaign consultant Anat Shenker-Osorio to delve into what motivates currently reluctant folks to vote and how to persuade swing voters toward progressive policy preferences. Anat will share both high level principles for persuasion and mobilization as well as concrete examples of empirically backed messages, ads and memes for issue and electoral wins. RSVP here

Friday, June 24^th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch. RSVP here

Friday and Saturday, June 24th – 25th
6th Annual Women’s Summit
Our theme for the 6th Annual Women’s Summit is ALL IN TO WIN. Every year, we do something new, different, and unexpected at the Women’s Summit. This year, we recognize that it’s time to invest in a blue foundation for organizing and maintaining the grassroots. You can choose to join the festivities in-person and/or virtually. More info and buy tickets

Saturday, June 25th, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturday or Sunday, June 25th and 26th, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Rep. Abigail Spanberger’s campaign is holding its first Sunday canvass in Prince William County! “I was born into a world where women were no longer dying from back-alley abortions. As were my three daughters. This leaked draft opinion indicates that after decades, that may all soon change. We voted to codify Roe in the House, and the Senate needs to take it for a vote.” Abigail Spanberger, May 2. Abigail’s race is rated as a “Toss Up” and she needs your help! RSVP here

Sunday, June 26th, 1:00pm – 8:00pm
Loudoun Pride sponsored by Equality Loudoun
The biggest and most colorful pride to come to Northern Virginia is arriving this summer! Join us for our inaugural festival filled with live performances, community vendors, food, music, and more! Loudoun Pride will take place on June 26 at Claude Moore Park. The festival is open to all ages, so bring your friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy this day of love and unity! Get all the info at LoudounPride.org! RSVP here

 Monday, June 27th, 8:00p
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room
Weekly briefing and discussion of organizing/messaging strategies and tactics that grassroots democrats can use to coordinate with Virginia campaigns. RSVP here

Saturday, July 16th, 6pm-9pm
Dulles Area Democrats Evening Reception for Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton 
Join Dulles Area Democrats for an evening reception to support Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton at the beautiful Three Creeks Winery in Loudoun County
6:00 to 7:00 PM: VIP Meet & Greet with Private Winery Tour
7:00 to 9:00 PM: Evening Reception
RSVP: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dadeventwexton

CURRENT CALLS TO ACTION

URGENT Gun Violence Prevention Call to Action!
A Senate Committee just reached a deal on a bipartisan gun safety bill. Ten Democrats and ten Republicans signed a joint statement backing the deal. This is not as strong as the House bill (HR7910) that passed last week, but it is more likely to actually pass the Senate.
CTA: PLEASE SEND and SHARE this Call-to-Action w. Friends in other states. – https://actionnetwork.org/letters/urge-your-senators-to-vote-for-hr-7910-protecting-our-kids-act?fbclid=IwAR3Fi57NO7UrM-KdpVrvIDTiM0VaZsuAXGmYW3BzkMH3S_nNxJ3hCGNt4KQ
CTA: Also, please retweet!

Stop Environmental Injustice and Inequity on African American Communities
Please lend your support to request that Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine come personally visit the Brown Grove Community in Hanover County, Virginia, to help craft a solution to stopping the erasure of this historic African American community.  Click here to take action: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/stop-environmental-injustice-and-inequity-on-african-american-communities. Learn more here: Washington Post Article: The Community of Brown Grove vs. Wegmans

Campaign Finance Reform – Advocacy Begins 
In anticipation of influencing legislators and pushing for campaign finance reform in Virginia, our MoneyOut group is asking for early action to push for the timely convocation of the Joint Sub-Committee on Campaign Finance Reform. Take Easy Action by: 1) signing  our campaign finance petition if you are an individual (click here) and 2) if you are a group, please sign-on to our advocacy letter  (click here).  Want to be informed about our meetings which are held every Tuesday evening? Sign up here.  

RECURRING Canvassing, Phonebanks & Actions

Recruit Poll Observers for Wisconsin’s August Primary 
WisDems needs poll observers at key locations across the state and needs to train them to be ready for early vote in July.  Join a phonebank to reach out to friendly Dems around WI and nearby states. Phonebank, After-hours,
Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 5pm CT / Wednesdays at noon CT
More Info & RSVP Here: https://www.mobilize.us/dpw/event/458385/

Become an Election Official or Poll Observer
Wondering how you can help with elections? Consider becoming an election official. This is why: Bannon is working to place far right election officials in election offices to help overturn elections so we need to sign up to be election officials. https://www.propublica.org/…/heeding-steve-bannons-call…
Info on How to Become an Election Official: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/officer-of-elections/
Become an Election Official in Arlington:
https://vote.arlingtonva.us/Elections/Apply-to-be-an-Election-Official
Become a Poll Observer (VA link currently not available – will update soon!)

Planned Parenthood Updates & Actions
Han Jones, Political Director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of VA (PPAV), who spoke at last week’s Membership Meeting provided us with many updates and how we can work together to provide safe Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare for women throughout Virginia:
Thursday, June 23rd – 6:30 PM
NOVA Rally for Abortion Rights
Manassas, VA
RSVP: https://www.weareplannedparenthoodaction.org/a/nova-rally-abortion-rights
Sign UP with  PPAV  for their latest updates on efforts to provide safe Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare: https://www.weareplannedparenthoodaction.org/a/scotusteam
Contact Your PPAV Organizer!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfiYnP39YfhGSWsFpthDclLCeRqQiGmwflf6VrOttIXzaJk3w/viewform
Share Your Story to Fight for Sexual & Reproductive Health Care: https://www.weareplannedparenthoodaction.org/a/share-your-story-fight-sexual-and-reproductive-health-care

Sister District & Partners Phonebanks
Republicans start at the top of the ticket and vote all the way down. Democrats start at the top and often “roll off” before getting to state and local races. States are where the action is, from abortion to guns to education. Join Sister District and 20+ partners to clean voter data, identify supporters, and recruit local volunteers for state house candidates in AZ, GA, MI, NC, NV, PA, and WI.  Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/sisterdistrict/event/387377/

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state.
RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

Week of June 12th

Monday, June 13, 6:45 – 8:00
WofA Membership Meeting 
Join WofAs and friends as we receive an update from Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia & Planned Parenthood Virginia PAC (PPAV) Political Director, Han Jones, on the latest re: Roe v Wade and what WofAs can do to help; Joe Tennant from Rep Abigail Spanberger’s campaign will fill us in on how her race is shaping up and the needs of the campaign; updates from WofA’s Voting & Elections committee – on the various elections and actions we are taking throughout Virginia; and much more – please feel free to “bring” a friend! Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84819390602#success

Monday, June 13^th, 2:30pm
Discussion of Campaign Finance Bills with Patrick Llewellyn and Elizabeth Shimek, CLC. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88404325823?pwd=R29pMW8xMkJSajlMYmRuYThoVVRzQT09

Tuesday. June 14th, 12:00pm
Zoom Lobby w. Warner’s Staffers
Signup: https://novagrassroots.org/event-warner-lobby.php  

Friday, June 17th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Saturday, June 18^th, 10:00am
Poor People’s and Low-Wage Workers’ Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls
We Assemble and March on June 18, 2022 because any nation that ignores nearly half of its citizens is in a moral, economic and political crisis. There were 140 million people who were poor or one emergency away from economic ruin before the pandemic. Since March 2020, while hundreds of thousands of people have died, millions are on the edge of hunger and eviction, and still without health care or living wages, billionaire wealth has grown by over $2 trillion. More info here

June 18th – 19th
Juneteenth Gala! – NAACP, Arlington Branch
For many years, the Virginia Black History Month Association has worked alongside the NAACP and civil rights organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. They have extended an invitation to members of the NAACP and our community to attend this year’s annual Juneteenth, Father’s Day Gals. Over two days, the VaBHMA will host the Hybrid Gala. The hybrid gala will take place for two (2) days from Saturday (afternoon) 18 June 2022 to Sunday (evening) 19 June 2022. You can attend the gala on Sunday only or join for the entire weekend. Only 500 tickets are available for the gala. Tickets/Info Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-virginia-black-history-juneteenth-fathers-day-gala-tickets-170228182075

Saturday, June 18th, 9:30am – 4:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
4 Public Education, a newly formed grassroots organization is hosting their first state wide event in support of public education. This event features a keynote speaker and 3 break out sessions from dynamic speakers. Our goals for this symposium are to strengthen a statewide network of leaders around public education advocacy, develop a common understanding of the threats facing our schools, to identify the value, importance and success of public education, and to define strategy for educating parents, community members and voters around education issues. Location: Unitarian Universalist Church , 717 Rugby Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903. RSVP here

Monday, June 20th 7:00pm
NAACP – Arlington Branch Monthly Meeting
Register Here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvdu-gpzkpE9XJn5vI3Fy-LO6f1r0qli7V

Wednesday, June 22nd, at 6pm ET
Words to Win Our Future with Anat Shenker-Osorio
We’ll be joined by communications researcher and campaign consultant Anat Shenker-Osorio to delve into what motivates currently reluctant folks to vote and how to persuade swing voters toward progressive policy preferences. Anat will share both high level principles for persuasion and mobilization as well as concrete examples of empirically backed messages, ads and memes for issue and electoral wins. RSVP here

June 24th – 25th
6th Annual Women’s Summit
Our theme for the 6th Annual Women’s Summit is ALL IN TO WIN. Every year, we do something new, different, and unexpected at the Women’s Summit. This year, we recognize that it’s time to invest in a blue foundation for organizing and maintaining the grassroots. You can choose to join the festivities in-person and/or virtually. More info and buy tickets

Sunday, June 26th, 1:00pm – 8:00pm
Loudoun Pride sponsored by Equality Loudoun
The biggest and most colorful pride to come to Northern Virginia is arriving this summer! Join us for our inaugural festival filled with live performances, community vendors, food, music, and more! Loudoun Pride will take place on June 26 at Claude Moore Park. The festival is open to all ages, so bring your friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy this day of love and unity! Get all the info at LoudounPride.org! RSVP: HERE

July 16-17
Canvass for Elaine Luria in Virginia Beach
WofA is spearheading our first big Grassroots Canvass to protect Elaine Luria – scheduled for July 16-17 in Virginia Beach!  Join WofA, NOPE Neighbors and VADF to Canvass for Congresswoman Elaine Luria in Virginia Beach.  After the Virginia redistricting, Elaine became one of the most endangered Dems in the US House of Representatives.  A retired Navy Commander, and member of the January 6 Commission, Elaine desperately needs our assistance knocking on doors.  Earlier canvassing is better – it provides the campaign with feedback on issues relevant to voters and allows us to make the case that every vote counts. Because Virginia Beach lacks canvassing capacity, the campaign really needs our help, and we look forward to another fun weekend!  Click HERE to sign up.  For more information, contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com

ACTIONS

JUNE PRIMARIES
First day of in-person early voting at your local registrar’s office: Friday, May 6, 2022
Voter registration offices open for early voting: Saturday, June 11, 2022.
The last day of in-person early voting at your local voter registration office:  Saturday, June 18, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
See who is on your ballot by viewing the candidate lists.
Register to vote or apply for an absentee ballot online using the Citizen Portal.

CALLS TO ACTION

URGENT Call to Action on Gun Violence Protection. The House passed the Protecting Our Kids Act, which would: Ban high capacity magazines; Raise the age to buy military-style rifles to 21; Federal law/penalties on straw purchasing, gun trafficking; Promote safe storage; Ban bump stocks and ghost guns.  This is critical legislation that we must make sure is passed in the Senate.  
ACTION: Please use this link to contact each of your Senators, asking them to vote YES on HR7910.  We will need some Republican support too, so please also share this CTA with your friends and family in other states!  You can also retweet Don Beyer, or other legislators, to make sure info on HR7910 goes viral!

Stop Environmental Injustice and Inequity on African American Communities
Please lend your support to request that Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine come personally visit the Brown Grove Community in Hanover County, Virginia, to help craft a solution to stopping the erasure of this historic African American community.  Click here to take action: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/stop-environmental-injustice-and-inequity-on-african-american-communities
Learn more here: Washington Post Article: The Community of Brown Grove vs. Wegmans

CTA: Campaign Finance Reform – Advocacy Begins 
In anticipation of influencing legislators and pushing for campaign finance reform in Virginia, our MoneyOut group is asking for early action to push for the timely convocation of the Joint Sub-Committee on Campaign Finance Reform. Take Easy Action by: 1) signing  our campaign finance petition if you are an individual (click here) and 2) if you are a group, please sign-on to our advocacy letter  (click here).  Want to be informed about our meetings which are held every Tuesday evening? Sign up here.    Questions? Contact nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com 

Demand Climate Transparency
If you pay sales tax in Virginia, your money gets invested in companies that fund climate change. Now you can take action to require all U.S. companies to stop greenwashing and report on their climate risks, by submitting a comment to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) by June 17.
CTA: Use this easy one click action to submit a comment to the SEC. Share this social media post to encourage others to join you.

Mountain Valley Pipeline
Dominion Energy shareholders voted over 80% in support of a resolution to require Dominion to report on their climate risk for natural gas. Dominion’s contract with Mountain Valley Pipeline is an example of an unnecessary project that would hurt shareholders. Amplify the pressure on Dominion to exit their contract with MVP by going to this digital toolkit which will be updated with talking points for letters to the editor and other easy to use social media posts like the ones below in the CTA:
Retweet 1 @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP
Retweet 2 @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP
Facebook post @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP
Share the media’s coverage of the shareholder resolution with @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP: Virginia Mercury article: Shareholders ask Dominion for report on risk of stranded natural gas assets
Institute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis Dominion shareholders win vote for report on stranded gas asset risk

Of Note:
Voting & Elections Update. WofA’s Executive Committee has decided to focus our election activities in 2022 exclusively on Virginia — there’s so much at stake RIGHT HERE! In addition to supporting Jennifer Wexton and Elaine Luria with our own fundraisers and postcarding, and organizing/promoting canvasses for these two amazing Congresswomen and Abigai Spanberger, we urge you to support others running in Virginia, including Herb Jones (CD-01), Josh Throneburg (CD-05). If you’re interested in activities for candidates farther afield, good field work and other opportunities are available though 31st Street Swing Left and NOPE Neighbors. 

WofA Policy on Promotion of Fundraisers
“What’s Up WofA” is a newsletter to promote the events and actions that are priorities of WofA. Because the resources of our members are limited, WofA focuses on races that are happening in the current year. WofA will not promote fundraisers or events for candidates whose races are not in the current year. “What’s Up WofA” will promote only fundraisers that Friends of WofA are co-sponsoring. Any WofA member is welcome to host or promote a fundraiser for a candidate and may post about the event on the WofA Facebook page. In order to avoid confusion, members of the WofA Executive Board should not “like” or otherwise indicate support for a non-WofA related fundraiser on the WofA Facebook page. They may comment on the post in a positive manner, but should include a statement that they are commenting as a private person and not on behalf of WofA.

Week of June 5th

Tuesday, June 7^th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
NOPE Meeting – Winning the West
Winning the West in 2022  is key to holding Congress in 2022 and the White House in 2024. Join us to find out about NOPE’s plans for winning in Arizona and Nevada, critical battleground states in the midterm elections. Our featured speaker is Senator Mark Kelly of AZ. In a special election in 2020, Senator Kelly unseated Republican Martha McSally (who had been appointed to fill the late John McCain’s seat), winning by 2% of the vote.  We must hold this seat to hold the Senate. You’ll also hear from: Kim Rogers, Executive Director of the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State.  The AZ Secretary of State who stood firm against The Big Lie and protected Democratic wins in AZ is now running for Governor. We’ll hear about how we hold the Secretary of State seats in both AZ and NV.  Leo Murrieta, Director, Make the Road Nevada, and our longtime Organize for Democracy partner. Lee will talk about engaging and turning out immigrant and Latino voters in NV.  RSVP here

Tuesday, June 7^th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Confidence in Uncomfortable Conversations: Talking About Abortion
Join the Rural Ground Game to review the current status of abortion access both nationally and within Virginia. RSVP here

June 7^th – 10^th
Advocate on the Hill
Advocate for better gun laws on Capitol Hill during March for Our Lives Lobby Days. Sign up here: https://secure.everyaction.com/68265_YMwUWWEU-wo59Plg2?ms=website

Wednesday, June 8th at 3 pm ET / 12 pm PT
The Research Collaborative: Movement Briefing
January 6th Committee Chair Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Anat Shenker-Osorio (ASO Communications), Mike Podhorzer (AFL-CIO), and Ashley Allison (Turner Conoly Group). RSVP here

Thursday, June 9th, 7:00pm
Pro-Choice Virginia’s 20th Anniversary Gala
Join us in celebrating 20 years of protecting and expanding reproductive freedom in Virginia! The Gala will be in person at the Army Navy Country Club with indoor and outdoor space. Please feel free to share the RSVP link with your network. Contact: Jane Materna, jmm@orgcapacity.com, 202-669-9370. RSVP here

Friday, June 10th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Friday, June 10^th
Attend this Gun Violence Prevention Mobilization on the National Mall
Please join Brady, Team ENOUGH, March For Our Lives and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) for an activation on the National Mall on Friday, June 10. We will unveil a powerful demonstration about America’s gun violence epidemic with a clear message: The Senate’s inaction is killing our nation’s youth.  Here is the schedule:
– 10 am – Report time for anyone willing to volunteer to help set-up the display
– The action table will begin at 12 p.m. ET and run through 7 p.m. ET (The activation will include the opportunity for participants and passersby to write personal messages to senators, urging them for legislative action to save young lives)
– The display will be unveiled at 2 p.m. ET and run through 7 p.m. ET |
– Speaker’s program 4 p.m. ET
– An informal open mic will run from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. ET. and resume after the formal speaker’s program until 7 p.m. ET
Please join us as we stand together and demand that the U.S. Senate take action now. We will be located at Union Square, located near 3rd Street S.W., between Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., and Maryland Avenue, S.W. See map. LET US KNOW YOU WILL STAND WITH US: Take Action to Prevent Gun Violence and #FightForOurFuture | Brady (bradyunited.org)

Saturday, June 11^th
March for Gun Safety
Support our youth when March for Our Lives returns to Washington DC. Register to attend the March here: https://secure.everyaction.com/-zpZ45w3Ekyv-yL0Q9cIpQ2?ms=website

Saturday, June 11th, 3:00pm – 7:00pm
DC Pride Parade
For more information on Pride Parade and other DC Pride events throughout the week, please see here: https://www.capitalpride.org/event/parade/

Saturday, June 11th, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturday or Sunday, June 11th and 12th, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Rep. Abigail Spanberger’s campaign is holding its first Sunday canvass in Prince William County! “I was born into a world where women were no longer dying from back-alley abortions. As were my three daughters. This leaked draft opinion indicates that after decades, that may all soon change. We voted to codify Roe in the House, and the Senate needs to take it for a vote.” Abigail Spanberger, May 2. Abigail’s race is rated as a “Toss Up” and she needs your help!

RSVP here

Saturday, June 11
Canvass in Harrisburg – Beyond Arlington
Regardless of who the Republicans nominate, the statewide races are going to be competitive.  We especially want to avoid Pennsylvania electing a governor who would overturn the results of an election.  Harrisburg is only about a two-hour drive from the DC area.  If people want to stay over, we can help out, but they can also definitely come just for the day.  Parents might like to take their kids to Hershey Park on Sunday! Please email Richard Skinner, Chair of Beyond Arlington, if you or your group is interested – beyond@arlingtondemocrats.org

RECURRING Canvassing & Phonebanks

Saturdays, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturdays/Sundays, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM Eastern
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

CALLS TO ACTION

Wondering how you can help with elections? Consider becoming an election official. This is why: Bannon is working to place far right election officials in election offices to help overturn elections so we need to sign up to be election officials.  https://www.propublica.org/…/heeding-steve-bannons-call…

JUNE PRIMARIES
First day of in-person early voting at your local registrar’s office: Friday, May 6, 2022. Deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration: May 31, 2022.
Deadline to apply for a ballot to be mailed to you: June 10, 2022. Your request must be received by your local voter registration office by 5:00 p.m.
Voter registration offices open for early voting: Saturday, June 11, 2022.
The last day of in-person early voting at your local voter registration office:  Saturday, June 18, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
See who is on your ballot by viewing the candidate lists.
Register to vote or apply for an absentee ballot online using the Citizen Portal.

Stop Environmental Injustice and Inequity on African American Communities
Please lend your support to request that Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine come personally visit the Brown Grove Community in Hanover County, Virginia, to help craft a solution to stopping the erasure of this historic African American community.  Click here to take action: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/stop-environmental-injustice-and-inequity-on-african-american-communities. Learn more here: Washington Post Article: The Community of Brown Grove vs. Wegmans

Campaign Finance Reform – Advocacy Begins 
In anticipation of influencing legislators and pushing for campaign finance reform in Virginia, our MoneyOut group is asking for early action to push for the timely convocation of the Joint Sub-Committee on Campaign Finance Reform. Take Easy Action by: 1) signing  our campaign finance petition if you are an individual (click here) and 2) if you are a group, please sign-on to our advocacy letter  (click here).  Want to be informed about our meetings which are held every Tuesday evening? Sign up here.    You are also welcome to join our meeting tomorrow, Tuesday, June 7th, at 6 pm, we will be discussing state-wide outreach, a campaign to get legislators to sign MoneyOut pledges, and building partnerships. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89983440649?pwd=aEZRZm1URkNtK1ptWENWNlFkRnN4UT09. Questions? Contact nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com 

Demand Climate Transparency
If you pay sales tax in Virginia, your money gets invested in companies that fund climate change. Now you can take action to require all U.S. companies to stop greenwashing and report on their climate risks, by submitting a comment to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) by June 17.
CTA: Use this easy one click action to submit a comment to the SEC. Share this social media post to encourage others to join you.

Mountain Valley Pipeline
Dominion Energy shareholders voted over 80% in support of a resolution to require Dominion to report on their climate risk for natural gas. Dominion’s contract with Mountain Valley Pipeline is an example of an unnecessary project that would hurt shareholders. Amplify the pressure on Dominion to exit their contract with MVP by going to this digital toolkit which will be updated with talking points for letters to the editor and other easy to use social media posts like the ones below in the CTA.
CTA:
Retweet 1 @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP
Retweet 2 @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP
Facebook post @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP
Share the media’s coverage of the shareholder resolution with @DominionEnergy #ExitMVP: Virginia Mercury article: Shareholders ask Dominion for report on risk of stranded natural gas assetsInstitute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis Dominion shareholders win vote for report on stranded gas asset risk

Week of May 29th

Good news!  Governor Youngkin has signed the unamended version of HB1138, bringing a peaceful closure to his attempt to undermine the duly elected members of Loudoun’s locally elected school board. This is a victory for free and fair elections across the entire Commonwealth.

TODAY, May 31st Deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration

TODAY, May 31st
Rep Elaine Luria Postcard Order
Today is Final Day! ATTENTION WofA Postcard writers!  We have just 525 postcards left! Thank you to the WofAs that have already signed up for 1975 postcards! We have ordered postcards that introduce U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria to voters in the redrawn 2nd Congressional District. This postcard will let voters know that Elaine Luria is their new U.S. Representative that they need to re-elect to Congress!!!!  PLEASE MAKE YOUR REQUEST NO LATER THAN TODAY MAY 31 HERE.

Thursday, June 2nd
Commonwealth Attorney Parisa Tafti is hosting a fundraiser for Jennifer Carrol Foy*, who is running for the 2023 State Senate seat in VA District #33 against Hala Ayala*.
* We of Action (WofA) does not endorse Democrat Primary Candidates. https://secure.actblue.com/donate/jcfjune2

Friday, June 3rd, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch RSVP here

Saturday, June 4th, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturday or Sunday, June 4th and 5th, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Rep. Abigail Spanberger’s campaign is holding its first Sunday canvass in Prince William County! “I was born into a world where women were no longer dying from back-alley abortions. As were my three daughters. This leaked draft opinion indicates that after decades, that may all soon change. We voted to codify Roe in the House, and the Senate needs to take it for a vote.” Abigail Spanberger, May 2. Abigail’s race is rated as a “Toss Up” and she needs your help! RSVP here

Saturday, June 4, 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Wear Orange Community Gathering for Gun Violence Awareness Day
Friday, June 3rd will be recognized as the 8th National Gun Violence Awareness Day, followed by Wear Orange Weekend, June 4th-5th. During #WearOrange, everyone who believes we can and must solve the problem of gun violence in America, will take action and stand together in a bold statement of resilience and fortitude as we advance our efforts to prevent gun violence. Together we will recognize individuals and communities impacted by gun violence, elevate stories and successes in working to reduce gun violence in our country, and we will share our dedication and commitment to each other to take on the fights ahead. Please join us at the Billy Cox Pavilion at Ida Lee Park for this special event. We will have multiple guest speakers, including local elected officials, community partners, and student leaders. There will be kids and family crafts, entertainment, and a plethora of organizations tabling. You don’t want to miss this! And most importantly, please Wear Orange! Location: Ida Lee Park – Billy Cox Pavilion, 60 Ida Lee Dr NW, Leesburg, VA 20176 RSVP here

Monday, June 6, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room RSVP here

Thursday, June 9th, 7:00pm
Pro-Choice Virginia’s 20th Anniversary Gala
Join us in celebrating 20 years of protecting and expanding reproductive freedom in Virginia! The Gala will be in person at the Army Navy Country Club with indoor and outdoor space. Please feel free to share the RSVP link with your network. Contact: Jane Materna, jmm@orgcapacity.com, 202-669-9370 RSVP here

Friday, June 10th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch. RSVP here

Saturday, June 11
Canvass in Harrisburg – Beyond Arlington
Regardless of who the Republicans nominate, the statewide races are going to be competitive.  We especially want to avoid Pennsylvania electing a governor who would overturn the results of an election.  Harrisburg is only about a two-hour drive from the DC area.  If people want to stay over, we can help out, but they can also definitely come just for the day.  Parents might like to take their kids to Hershey Park on Sunday! Please email Richard Skinner, Chair of Beyond Arlington, if you or your group is interested – beyond@arlingtondemocrats.org

Monday, June 13th, 6:45 – 8:00
WofA Membership Meeting 
Join WofAs and friends as we receive an update from Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia & Planned Parenthood Virginia PAC (PPAV) Political Director, Han Jones, on the latest re: Roe v Wade and what WofAs can do to help; Joe Tenant from Rep Abigail Spanberger’s campaign will fill us in on how her race is shaping up and the needs of the campaign; updates from WofA’s Voting & Elections committee – on the various elections and actions we are taking throughout Virginia; and much more – please feel free to “bring” a friend! Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84819390602#success

June 18th – 19th
Juneteenth Gala! – NAACP, Arlington Branch
For many years, the Virginia Black History Month Association has worked alongside the NAACP and civil rights organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. They have extended an invitation to members of the NAACP and our community to attend this year’s annual Juneteenth, Father’s Day Gals. Over two days, the VaBHMA will host the Hybrid Gala. The hybrid gala will take place for two (2) days from Saturday (afternoon) 18 June 2022 to Sunday (evening) 19 June 2022. You can attend the gala on Sunday only or join for the entire weekend. Only 500 tickets are available for the gala. Tickets/Info Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-virginia-black-history-juneteenth-fathers-day-gala-tickets-170228182075

Saturday, June 18th, 9:30am – 4:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
4 Public Education, a newly formed grassroots organization is hosting their first state wide event in support of public education. This event features a keynote speaker and 3 break out sessions from dynamic speakers. Our goals for this symposium are to strengthen a statewide network of leaders around public education advocacy, develop a common understanding of the threats facing our schools, to identify the value, importance and success of public education, and to define strategy for educating parents, community members and voters around education issues. Location: Unitarian Universalist Church , 717 Rugby Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903. RSVP here

June 24th – 25th
6th Annual Women’s Summit
Our theme for the 6th Annual Women’s Summit is ALL IN TO WIN. Every year, we do something new, different, and unexpected at the Women’s Summit. This year, we recognize that it’s time to invest in a blue foundation for organizing and maintaining the grassroots. You can choose to join the festivities in-person and/or virtually. More info and buy tickets

Sunday, June 26th, 1:00pm – 8:00pm
Loudoun Pride sponsored by Equality Loudoun
The biggest and most colorful pride to come to Northern Virginia is arriving this summer! Join us for our inaugural festival filled with live performances, community vendors, food, music, and more! Loudoun Pride will take place on June 26 at Claude Moore Park. The festival is open to all ages, so bring your friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy this day of love and unity! Get all the info at LoudounPride.org! RSVP: RSVP here

July 16-17
Canvass for Elaine Luria in Virginia Beach
WofA is spearheading our first big Grassroots Canvass to protect Elaine Luria – scheduled for July 16-17 in Virginia Beach!  Join WofA, NOPE Neighbors and VADF to Canvass for Congresswoman Elaine Luria in Virginia Beach.  After the Virginia redistricting, Elaine became one of the most endangered Dems in the US House of Representatives.  A retired Navy Commander, and member of the January 6 Commission, Elaine desperately needs our assistance knocking on doors.  Earlier canvassing is better – it provides the campaign with feedback on issues relevant to voters and allows us to make the case that every vote counts. Because Virginia Beach lacks canvassing capacity, the campaign really needs our help, and we look forward to another fun weekend!   Click HERE to sign up. For more information, contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com

Sunday, July 17th, 2:00pm – 5:00pm, Williamsburg
Summer FUN-draiser for Herb Jones
Join us for a Fun-raiser to help elect Herb Jones to Congress representing Virginia’s First Congressional District!!!  We will start the afternoon with a line-up of wonderful Democrats speaking on behalf of Herb, including Senator Jennifer McClellan (the candidate Williamsburg JCC Indivisible endorsed for Governor in 2021), Delegate Mike Mullin, representing his District since 2016, former Chair of the Democratic Central Committee for VACD01 and School Board Member in Fredericksburg, Matt Rowe and current Chair of the Democratic Central Committee for VACD01 and Chair of the Gloucester Democrats, Dianne Carter de Mayo (Check back as we update this list closer to the event). The speaker portion of this event will conclude with our Candidate himself, Herb Jones.  What food best represents summer? HOTDOGS The fare at this event will be provided by Dominion Dogs, a gourmet hotdog vendor that will, no doubt, have a topping to tickle your fancy. And don’t worry vegans and vegetarians, we have you covered! There will be limited seating outside for dining. More Info and RSVP here

JUNE PRIMARIES
• 1st day of in-person early voting at local registrar’s office:
   Fri, May 6, 2022
• Deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration:
   May 31, 2022.
• Deadline to apply for a ballot to be mailed to you: June 10, 2022.
   Request must be received at the local voter registration office by 5:00 p.m.
• Voter registration offices open for early voting:
   Saturday, June 11, 2022. 
• The last day of in-person early voting at your local voter registration office:
   Saturday, June 18, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
• See who is on your ballot by viewing the candidate lists.
• Register to vote/Apply for an absentee ballot using the Citizen Portal.

ACTION

Roe v Wade
At Monday evening’s WofA Membership Meeting, we discussed the upcoming decision on Roe v Wade – it will most likely be delivered by the end of June, beginning of July. We plan on having a rep from Planned Parenthood speak and find out what actions we can take.  In the meantime, many of us would like to do “something” now. A great organization is:  ABORTION FUNDS – grassroots organizations developed to support the specific needs of their communities.Whether it’s funding procedures, abortion pills, transportation and lodgingwhen travel is required, childcare, doula and emotional support, or other needs voiced by people seeking abortions, funds are finding innovative and compassionate ways to get people the abortions they want and need. For more information and to donate, please see: https://abortionfunds.org/

Week of May 22nd

May 24 – May 31
ATTENTION WofA Postcard writers – Elaine Luria!
We have ordered postcards that introduce U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria to voters in the redrawn 2nd Congressional District. This postcard will let voters know that Elaine Luria is their new U.S. Representative that they need to re-elect to Congress!!!!  PLEASE MAKE YOUR REQUEST NO LATER THAN MAY 31 here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1tU0_1uwnG8BxGuirOT3teVnofPsYkpggTwKJgseFieE/edit

Wednesday, May 25th, 7:30pm  
Virginia CD2 & CD7 Strategic Roundtable (Virtual) – 
If you’re planning to volunteer for Rep. Luria or Spanberger this year, this is the event for you. Campaign managers and knowledgeable local volunteers from both the Second and Seventh Districts will give us the inside scoop on both Congresswomen’s races — making us smarter, more strategic canvassers/phonebankers/texters/postcarders this summer and fall. Event sponsored by Democrats To Go and Network NoVa. We hope to see you on Zoom on the 25th! RSVP Here 

Friday, May 27th 
12:00pm Power Lunch – RSVP here

Saturday May 28th and and Sunday May 29th 
Canvassing for Spanberger 
RSVP here and RSVP here

Saturday, June 4, 2:00fpm – 4:00pm
Wear Orange Community Gathering for Gun Violence Awareness Day
Friday, June 3rd will be recognized as the 8th National Gun Violence Awareness Day, followed by Wear Orange Weekend, June 4th-5th. During #WearOrange, everyone who believes we can and must solve the problem of gun violence in America, will take action and stand together in a bold statement of resilience and fortitude as we advance our efforts to prevent gun violence. Together we will recognize individuals and communities impacted by gun violence, elevate stories and successes in working to reduce gun violence in our country, and we will share our dedication and commitment to each other to take on the fights ahead. Please join us at the Billy Cox Pavilion at Ida Lee Park for this special event. We will have multiple guest speakers, including local elected officials, community partners, and student leaders. There will be kids and family crafts, entertainment, and a plethora of organizations tabling. You don’t want to miss this! And most importantly, please Wear Orange. Location: Ida Lee Park – Billy Cox Pavilion, 60 Ida Lee Dr NW, Leesburg, VA 20176. RSVP here

Monday, June 6, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room 
RSVP here

Thursday, June 9th, 7:00pm
Pro-Choice Virginia’s 20th Anniversary Gala
Join us in celebrating 20 years of protecting and expanding reproductive freedom in Virginia! The Gala will be in person at the Army Navy Country Club with indoor and outdoor space. Please feel free to share the RSVP link with your network. Contact: Jane Materna, jmm@orgcapacity.com, 202-669-9370. RSVP here

Saturday, June 11 
Canvass in Harrisburg – Beyond Arlington
Regardless of who the Republicans nominate, the statewide races are going to be competitive.  We especially want to avoid Pennsylvania electing a governor who would overturn the results of an election.  Harrisburg is only about a two-hour drive from the DC area.  If people want to stay over, we can help out, but they can also definitely come just for the day.  Parents might like to take their kids to Hershey Park on Sunday! Please email Richard Skinner, Chair of Beyond Arlington, if you or your group is interested – beyond@arlingtondemocrats.org 

Monday, June 13
WofA Membership Meeting – Save the Date!
Details to follow! Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84819390602#success

June 18th – 19th
Juneteenth Gala! – NAACP, Arlington Branch
For many years, the Virginia Black History Month Association has worked alongside the NAACP and civil rights organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. They have extended an invitation to members of the NAACP and our community to attend this year’s annual Juneteenth, Father’s Day Gals. Over two days, the VaBHMA will host the Hybrid Gala. The hybrid gala will take place for two (2) days from Saturday (afternoon) 18 June 2022 to Sunday (evening) 19 June 2022. You can attend the gala on Sunday only or join for the entire weekend. Only 500 tickets are available for the gala. Tickets/Info Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-virginia-black-history-juneteenth-fathers-day-gala-tickets-170228182075

Saturday, June 18th, 9:30am – 4:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
4 Public Education, a newly formed grassroots organization is hosting their first state wide event in support of public education. This event features a keynote speaker and 3 break out sessions from dynamic speakers. Our goals for this symposium are to strengthen a statewide network of leaders around public education advocacy, develop a common understanding of the threats facing our schools, to identify the value, importance and success of public education, and to define strategy for educating parents, community members and voters around education issues. Location: Unitarian Universalist Church , 717 Rugby Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903. RSVP here

June 24th – 25th
6th Annual Women’s Summit
Our theme for the 6th Annual Women’s Summit is ALL IN TO WIN. Every year, we do something new, different, and unexpected at the Women’s Summit. This year, we recognize that it’s time to invest in a blue foundation for organizing and maintaining the grassroots. You can choose to join the festivities in-person and/or virtually. More info and buy tickets

Sunday, June 26th, 1:00pm – 8:00pm
Loudoun Pride sponsored by Equality Loudoun
The biggest and most colorful pride to come to Northern Virginia is arriving this summer! Join us for our inaugural festival filled with live performances, community vendors, food, music, and more! Loudoun Pride will take place on June 26 at Claude Moore Park. The festival is open to all ages, so bring your friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy this day of love and unity! Get all the info at LoudounPride.org! RSVP here

May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month! 
A celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. A rather broad term, Asian/Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and the Solomon Islands), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated States of Micronesia) and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island). More Info here: https://asianpacificheritage.gov/about/

Week of May 15th

May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month! 
A celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. A rather broad term, Asian/Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and the Solomon Islands), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated States of Micronesia) and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island).  More Info here: https://asianpacificheritage.gov/about

Friday, May 20th, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Restorative Justice Policy Briefing
The current criminal legal system fails to address the needs of harmed parties, offending parties, and communities writ large. A greater integration of and financial support for restorative justice processes throughout the criminal legal system, however, has the potential for transformative change. Taking many forms, from victim-offender dialogues to community conferences, this approach to harm rejects retribution and instead acknowledges the diverse needs of harmed parties, offending parties, and their communities alike. Fortunately, many cities and states are experimenting with new forms of restorative justice, from Colorado’s Restorative Justice Coordinating Council to Vermont’s Community Justice Centers. Learn from experts and advocates at the frontier of advancing this model. Speakers: Thalia González (Occidental College), Jessica Persaud (Common Justice), Liz Porter-Merrill (Colorado Restorative Justice Council), Dr. Shannon Sliva (University of Denver), Sen. Pete Lee (CO), Nketiah Berko (Democracy Policy Network) The briefing will be one-hour long, feature Q&A with the audience, and open to members of our statehouse network, their staff, and other democratically-spirited, policy-minded advocacy organizations, lawmakers and journalists. If you are unable to make either event, feel free to RSVP or send a staff member or friend to the sessions — and we’ll ensure that you receive a recording of the events. RSVP here

Friday, May 20th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Saturday, May 21st, 11:00am – 12:30pm (Rain date: 5/22/22)
Hands Across the Sand 2022 – Ocean View
Join us as we show our determination to protect our Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean from pollution and encourage safe, clean, renewable energy. We will have some energizing speakers, people who are on the front lines finding ways to win and organize. We will also dispense some information and as our final act, have a great demonstration on the beach to show our resolve!  Location: Sarah Constant Beach Park. For more information on these annual events, please go to: https://handsacrossthesand.org/

Saturday, May 21st, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

WofA Membership Meeting with Ethan Lynne, Student Activist!
Monday, May 23rd 6:45pm – 8:00pm
Join WofA & Friends as we catch up on midterms; local elections and much more! Hear from HS Student Activist, Ethan Lynne and follow Ethan on twitter here: https://twitter.com/ethanclynne?s=20&t=S6XqYmzdUtALGY1yBc7nFA
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83842716503

Thursday, June 9th, 7:00pm
Pro-Choice Virginia’s 20th Anniversary Gala
Join us in celebrating 20 years of protecting and expanding reproductive freedom in Virginia! The Gala will be in person at the Army Navy Country Club with indoor and outdoor space. Please feel free to share the RSVP link with your network. Contact: Jane Materna, jmm@orgcapacity.com, 202-669-9370. RSVP here

June 18th – 19th
Juneteenth Gala! – NAACP, Arlington Branch
For many years, the Virginia Black History Month Association has worked alongside the NAACP and civil rights organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. They have extended an invitation to members of the NAACP and our community to attend this year’s annual Juneteenth, Father’s Day Gals. Over two days, the VaBHMA will host the Hybrid Gala. The hybrid gala will take place for two (2) days from Saturday (afternoon) 18 June 2022 to Sunday (evening) 19 June 2022. You can attend the gala on Sunday only or join for the entire weekend. Only 500 tickets are available for the gala. Tickets/Info Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-virginia-black-history-juneteenth-fathers-day-gala-tickets-170228182075

Saturday, June 18th, 9:30am – 4:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
4 Public Education, a newly formed grassroots organization is hosting their first state wide event in support of public education. This event features a keynote speaker and 3 break out sessions from dynamic speakers. Our goals for this symposium are to strengthen a statewide network of leaders around public education advocacy, develop a common understanding of the threats facing our schools, to identify the value, importance and success of public education, and to define strategy for educating parents, community members and voters around education issues. Location: Unitarian Universalist Church , 717 Rugby Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903. RSVP here

June 24th – 25th
6th Annual Women’s Summit
Our theme for the 6th Annual Women’s Summit is ALL IN TO WIN. Every year, we do something new, different, and unexpected at the Women’s Summit. This year, we recognize that it’s time to invest in a blue foundation for organizing and maintaining the grassroots. You can choose to join the festivities in-person and/or virtually. More info and buy tickets

Sunday, June 26th, 1:00pm – 8:00pm
Loudoun Pride sponsored by Equality Loudoun
The biggest and most colorful pride to come to Northern Virginia is arriving this summer! Join us for our inaugural festival filled with live performances, community vendors, food, music, and more! Loudoun Pride will take place on June 26 at Claude Moore Park. The festival is open to all ages, so bring your friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy this day of love and unity! Get all the info at LoudounPride.org! RSVP here

RECURRING Canvassing & Phonebanks

Saturdays, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturdays, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
EasternJoin us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way.Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

ACTION

Movement Labs has launched a new Grassroots Abortion Defense Fellowship to supercharge local, pro-choice organizing across the country. We will be offering significant support to local organizing efforts to build long-term political power to protect abortion. Please apply if this is the work you do, or share far & wide with grassroots reproductive justice or abortion rights organizations you know and love who you think should apply (advocacy, electoral, direct services, education, and more all encouraged to apply) – the deadline is this coming Sunday, May 22. https://movementlabs.com/grassroots-abortion-defense / 

There is an opportunity to canvass in Harrisburg on Saturday, June 11th. Regardless of who the Republicans nominate, the statewide races are going to be competitive.  We especially want to avoid Pennsylvania electing a governor who would overturn the results of an election.  Harrisburg is only about a two-hour drive from the DC area.  If people want to stay over, we can help out, but they can also definitely come just for the day.  Parents might like to take their kids to Hershey Park on Sunday! Please email Richard Skinner, Chair of Beyond Arlington, if you or your group is interested – beyond@arlingtondemocrats.org 

Wondering how you can help with elections? Consider becoming an election official. This is why:
Bannon is working to place far right election officials in election offices to help overturn elections so we need to sign up to be election officials.  https://www.propublica.org/…/heeding-steve-bannons-call

Week of May 8th

June Primaries!
Early Voting has begun!
May 31, 2022 is the Deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration: 

Wednesday, May 11th, 7:00pm 
Education Working Group Meeting
Join us to discuss upcoming Public School Board elections. We will have presentations by Jack Kiraly, Executive Director of the Fairfax County Dems, and Rachna Sizemore Heizer, Vice-chair of the Fairfax County Public School Board, (and possibly Karl Frisch, member of the Fairfax County Public School Board). RSVP to Marianne Burke to receive the Zoom link, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com

Wednesday, May 11th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Fraud & Abuse: Know It, Report It, Bring Action Against It
A must attend forum on fraud and abuse impacting the 50+ population in Fairfax County. Learn about this important issue and how to protect yourself and loved ones. Speakers include: Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano, Fairfax County Police Detective Jonathan Loesch, AARP Representative Trudy Marotta. RSVP here

Friday, May 13th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch RSVP here

Saturday, May 14th 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Bans Off Our Bodies – Protest Washington, DC
Join us Saturday, May 14 at 12 pm EST in Washington, D.C at the NE side of the Washington Monument. We will march to the Supreme Court at 2 pm EST. More details when you sign up! https://www.mobilize.us/ppaf/event/458728/

Saturday, May 14th, 9:00am – 11:00am
Blue Families School Board Candidate Forum
Arlington Blue Families is hosting a forum to hear from the candidates running for the Democratic School Board Endorsement. Arlington Democrats will be holding an Endorsement Vote to select a School Board candidate to endorse and this is your chance to come hear from them and ask questions. There will be a candidate meet and greet at 9 am with the forum starting at 9:30 am. Everyone is welcome and the event is open to the public. Location: Busboys and Poets Shirlington.  More info here

Saturday, May 14th, 10:00 am
LACE UP YOUR HIKING BOOTS 
Join us for a Climate & Clean Energy Get Together Hike led by Meredith Haines.  (Raindate Saturday 21st May).  Meet at Seneca Regional Park in Great Falls. RSVP: mhainesva@gmail.com

Saturday, May 14th, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Sunday, May 15th, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Rep. Abigail Spanberger’s campaign is holding its first Sunday canvass in Prince William County! “I was born into a world where women were no longer dying from back-alley abortions. As were my three daughters. This leaked draft opinion indicates that after decades, that may all soon change. We voted to codify Roe in the House, and the Senate needs to take it for a vote.” ~ Abigail Spanberger, May 2.
Abigail’s race is rated as a “Toss Up” and she needs your help! RSVP here

Monday, May 16th, 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Public Medications Policy Briefing
A new vista is opening up in the fight for more affordable medication: Publicly-owned pharmaceutical enterprises, created by states to develop, manufacture, and distribute medication in the public interest. California is taking steps to produce its own low-cost insulin — and Washington’s state legislature recently passed legislation to empower the state to partner with other states or organizations to produce, distribute, and purchase generic prescription drugs. Learn from leaders, implementers, and advocates on the front lines of Public Meds about how your state can break Big Pharma monopolies, address shortages, and lower prices for your residents. Speakers: Dana Brown (Democracy Collaborative), Madi Johnson (Type 1 United), Sen. Karen Keiser (WA), Sen. Richard Pan (CA), Sen. Trey Stewart (ME), David Toppelberg (CalRx). The briefing will be one-hour long, feature Q&A with the audience, and open to members of our statehouse network, their staff, and other democratically-spirited, policy-minded advocacy organizations, lawmakers and journalists. If you are unable to make either event, feel free to RSVP or send a staff member or friend to the sessions — and we’ll ensure that you receive a recording of the events. RSVP here

Tuesday, May 17th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
An Evening with Rep. Elaine Luria (FLYER)
Friends of WofA, along with Friends of Virginia Democracy Forward (VADF), Dems to Go, and Indivisible Waterfront welcome Rep. Luria to a hybrid in-person/zoom event which will be held at a WofA member’s house in McLean/Arlington. Rep. Luria plans to attend in person and we can confirm that other local elected officials will attend, including Sen. Barbara Favola, Del. Rip Sullivan, and Fairfax Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano. Elaine Luria is our dynamic, twice-elected—but most vulnerable— Democratic Congresswoman in Virginia. If we needed another reason to be very concerned about this race, last week’s leaked Supreme Court Roe v Wade disaster should be at the top of our lists.  Read here to see Luria’s statement. 

Rep. Luria seeks reelection in her redistricted, Republican-leaning Tidewater jurisdiction. It is a very tough race.  As a retired, career Navy Commander who led numerous combat deployments, and a member of the January 6th Committee in Congress. Elaine has leadership, skills and grit to win this critical race if she has the right support.  Because it is impractical for many of us in NOVA to volunteer on canvassing trips to Tidewater to help fill the campaign’s needs for on-the-ground outreach efforts, this fundraiser is dedicated to hiring full time organizers & canvassers to support her campaign.  Please support this fundraiser with as generous a gift as you can afford and please attend in-person or by zoom if you can.  RSVP and/or donate here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/051722wofa-vadf-iw-fr

Tuesday, May 17th, 5:00pm -7:00 pm
Climate Cabinet Live Event
Climate Cabinet helps state and local leaders run, win, and legislate on the climate crisis.  Learn about their efforts to get pro-climate action state and local leaders on the ballot. We have worked closely with Blair St. Ledger-Olson, Legislative Director for Climate Cabinet, during the last 3 legislative sessions and know first-hand that this is a very dynamic organization. Location: Busboy’s and Poets, 2021 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009. RSVP here

Wednesday, May 18th, 6:00pm
Planned Parenthood: Statewide SCOTUS Info Session
Come to our statewide information session and learn about the Supreme Court decision that could change access to abortion across the nation. The Jackson Women’s Health of this case, what this could mean for abortion rights across the nation and in Virginia, and what you can do to help. RSVP here

Friday, May 20th, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Restorative Justice Policy Briefing
The current criminal legal system fails to address the needs of harmed parties, offending parties, and communities writ large. A greater integration of and financial support for restorative justice processes throughout the criminal legal system, however, has the potential for transformative change. Taking many forms, from victim-offender dialogues to community conferences, this approach to harm rejects retribution and instead acknowledges the diverse needs of harmed parties, offending parties, and their communities alike. Fortunately, many cities and states are experimenting with new forms of restorative justice, from Colorado’s Restorative Justice Coordinating Council to Vermont’s Community Justice Centers. Learn from experts and advocates at the frontier of advancing this model. Speakers: Thalia González (Occidental College), Jessica Persaud (Common Justice), Liz Porter-Merrill (Colorado Restorative Justice Council), Dr. Shannon Sliva (University of Denver), Sen. Pete Lee (CO), Nketiah Berko (Democracy Policy Network) The briefing will be one-hour long, feature Q&A with the audience, and open to members of our statehouse network, their staff, and other democratically-spirited, policy-minded advocacy organizations, lawmakers and journalists. If you are unable to make either event, feel free to RSVP or send a staff member or friend to the sessions — and we’ll ensure that you receive a recording of the events. RSVP here

Saturday, May 21st, 11:00am – 12:30pm (Rain date: 5/22/22)
Hands Across the Sand 2022 – Ocean View
Join us as we show our determination to protect our Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean from pollution and encourage safe, clean, renewable energy. We will have some energizing speakers, people who are on the front lines finding ways to win and organize. We will also dispense some information and as our final act, have a great demonstration on the beach to show our resolve!  Location: Sarah Constant Beach Park. For more information on these annual events, please go to: https://handsacrossthesand.org/

Monday, May 23rd, 1:00pm
Protect Medicare Webinar: Turning up the heat on REACH and DCEs
PNHP and more than 200 allied organizations will launch the next phase of our campaign to end REACH and protect Medicare from privatization and profiteering. After months of pressure from activists, CMS thought they could fool us by replacing the controversial Medicare Direct Contracting program with the nearly identical (and in many ways worse) REACH model. We will never defeat this threat to Medicare unless we build a powerful — and massive — grassroots movement. We’ll learn about the latest threats to Medicare, and our plans to defeat this privatization attempt once and for all. You won’t want to miss it! Please register in advance here Organization v. Dobbs case will be decided this summer, and the landmark Roe v. Wade case that cemented abortion rights will likely be overturned. Come hear about what the importance. 

WofA Membership Meeting with Ethan Lynne, Student Activist!
Monday, May 23rd 6:45pm – 8:00pm
Join WofA & Friends as we catch up on midterms; local elections and much more! Hear from HS Student Activist, Ethan Lynne and follow Ethan on twitter here: https://twitter.com/ethanclynne?s=20&t=S6XqYmzdUtALGY1yBc7nFA
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting Link: 838 4271 6503

Thursday, June 9th, 7:00pm
Pro-Choice Virginia’s 20th Anniversary Gala
Join us in celebrating 20 years of protecting and expanding reproductive freedom in Virginia! The Gala will be in person at the Army Navy Country Club with indoor and outdoor space. Please feel free to share the RSVP link with your network. Contact: Jane Materna, jmm@orgcapacity.com, 202-669-9370 RSVP here

June 18th – 19th
Juneteenth Gala! – NAACP, Arlington Branch
For many years, the Virginia Black History Month Association has worked alongside the NAACP and civil rights organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. They have extended an invitation to members of the NAACP and our community to attend this year’s annual Juneteenth, Father’s Day Gals. Over two days, the VaBHMA will host the Hybrid Gala. The hybrid gala will take place for two (2) days from Saturday (afternoon) 18 June 2022 to Sunday (evening) 19 June 2022. You can attend the gala on Sunday only or join for the entire weekend. Only 500 tickets are available for the gala. Tickets/Info Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-virginia-black-history-juneteenth-fathers-day-gala-tickets-170228182075

Saturday, June 18th, 9:30am – 4:00pm
Raise Your Hand 4 Education: A Leadership Symposium for Virginia
4 Public Education, a newly formed grassroots organization is hosting their first state wide event in support of public education. This event features a keynote speaker and 3 break out sessions from dynamic speakers. Our goals for this symposium are to strengthen a statewide network of leaders around public education advocacy, develop a common understanding of the threats facing our schools, to identify the value, importance and success of public education, and to define strategy for educating parents, community members and voters around education issues. Location: Unitarian Universalist Church , 717 Rugby Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903. RSVP here

June 24th – 25th
6th Annual Women’s Summit
Our theme for the 6th Annual Women’s Summit is ALL IN TO WIN. Every year, we do something new, different, and unexpected at the Women’s Summit. This year, we recognize that it’s time to invest in a blue foundation for organizing and maintaining the grassroots. You can choose to join the festivities in-person and/or virtually. More info and buy tickets

Sunday, June 26th, 1:00pm – 8:00pm
Loudoun Pride sponsored by Equality Loudoun
The biggest and most colorful pride to come to Northern Virginia is arriving this summer! Join us for our inaugural festival filled with live performances, community vendors, food, music, and more! Loudoun Pride will take place on June 26 at Claude Moore Park. The festival is open to all ages, so bring your friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy this day of love and unity! Get all the info at LoudounPride.org! RSVP here

Week of May 1st

UPCOMING EVENTS

June Primaries!
May 31, 2022 is the Deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration: 

Tuesday, May 3rd, 7:00pm
Rural Radio Workshop
We know that conservative voices have been monopolizing rural radio for a long time. No more. Join us for an event to participate in the creation of radio ads from start to finish. We want to make this as accessible and grassroots as possible. You’ll be shown how to record on your phone in your car or home! We’ll share info about creating a script for 30 and 60 second ads, best practices for recording and share how Rural GroundGame can support fundraising and distribution efforts. More info and RSVP here

Wednesday, May 4, 7:30 – 8:15 pm
Planning meeting for WofA Evening with Rep. Elaine Luria (FLYER)
We are planning for the May 17th Evening with Elaine Luria and want your ideas and participation.  Join our zoom meeting and find out more. (If you can’t make the meeting but want to help, please  sign up here ). 
Topic: Planning meeting for Evening with Rep. Elaine Luria
Time: May 4, 2022 07:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/79200950117?pwd=U5FbrAXLgC_cJ_jlzb2sc27cwKcw6G.1
Meeting ID: 792 0095 0117 Passcode: hEqZH1

Friday, May 6th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Teacher Appreciation Week Rally – Stand and DeliverVA
We hope you will join us and bring your colleagues, family and friends dressed in Red for Ed. Bring signs that show how you want to be appreciated during Teacher Appreciation Week. We will meet at the Smithsonian Carousel and stand in that section of the mall with the US Capitol as our backdrop. More Info Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stand-up-for-public-education-during-teacher-appreciation-week-tickets-331424729287?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=es&fbclid=IwAR0qiAz7bDxdn3KxZwApMixQDgwEs42-MYAiQAVF9mjEB1isOIxMrqNFZKo
If you would like to be added to our private Facebook group, please let us know. Please follow us on Twitter @Stand_DeliverVA 
Instagram: standanddelivervirginia
Like our Facebook Page: standanddeliverva

Friday, May 6th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Saturday, May 7th, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturday, May 7th, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Wednesday, May 11th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Fraud & Abuse: Know It, Report It, Bring Action Against It
A must attend forum on fraud and abuse impacting the 50+ population in Fairfax County. Learn about this important issue and how to protect yourself and loved ones. Speakers include: Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano, Fairfax County Police Detective Jonathan Loesch, AARP Representative Trudy Marotta. RSVP here

Saturday, May 14th, 9:00am – 11:00am
Blue Families School Board Candidate Forum
Arlington Blue Families is hosting a forum to hear from the candidates running for the Democratic School Board Endorsement. Arlington Democrats will be holding an Endorsement Vote to select a School Board candidate to endorse and this is your chance to come hear from them and ask questions. There will be a candidate meet and greet at 9 am with the forum starting at 9:30 am. Everyone is welcome and the event is open to the public. Location: Busboys and Poets Shirlington.  More info here

Saturday, May 14th, 10:00 am
LACE UP YOUR HIKING BOOTS 
Join us for a Climate & Clean Energy Get Together Hike led by Meredith Haines.  (Raindate Saturday 21st May).  Meet at Seneca Regional Park in Great Falls. 
RSVP: mhainesva@gmail.com

Tuesday, May 17th, 5:00pm -7:00 pm
Climate Cabinet Live Event
Climate Cabinet helps state and local leaders run, win, and legislate on the climate crisis.  Learn about their efforts to get pro-climate action state and local leaders on the ballot. We have worked closely with Blair St. Ledger-Olson, Legislative Director for Climate Cabinet, during the last 3 legislative sessions and know first-hand that this is a very dynamic organization. Location: Busboy’s and Poets, 2021 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009. RSVP here

Tuesday, May 17th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
An Evening with Rep. Elaine Luria (FLYER)
Friends of WofA, along with Friends of Virginia Democracy Forward (VADF) and Indivisible Waterfront welcome Rep. Luria to a hybrid in-person/zoom event which will be held at a WofA member’s house in McLean/Arlington. Rep. Luria, a Navy veteran, represents Virginia  CD-2, and serves on the January 6th Committee. Hear her insights on some of the most pressing issues of our times. She faces a very challenging re-election race this year, after redistricting, and is one of the most endangered Democrats in Congress. 
Sign up to join our planning committee (we will meet by zoom Wednesday May 4 at 7:30), or help with the event.
RSVP and/or donate here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/051722wofa-vadf-iw-fr

WofA Membership Meeting
Monday, May 23rd 6:45pm – 8:00pm
Join WofA & Friends as we catch up on midterms; local elections and much more!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83842716503
Meeting ID: 838 4271 6503

CALLS TO ACTION

CALL TO ACTION: Demand Dominion be Accountable in Response to the Climate Emergency – ASAP
Dominion Energy (DE) is the only company contracted in the Mountain Valley Pipeline that isn’t a partner in the project. DE continues to build out new methane infrastructure and is getting involved in risky investments like bio-gas and blue hydrogen. DE shareholders are demanding immediate changes for how DE is responding to the climate emergency. Learn more by reading these news stories Dominion shareholders demand a different response to climate change and SEC allows Dominion shareholders to vote on stranded assets, and memos in support of the resolutions Item 6 on Scope 3 GHG emissions and Item 7 on natural gas stranded assets.
CTA 1: Take this easy 1 click action: https://tinyurl.com/1clickDominionAction
Contact Dominion investors to support climate action.
Demand Dominion respond to Climate Change NOW!

CTA 2: Please share this social media post to encourage others to take action and Tweet at major investors by Retweeting this tweet. Want to do more? Go to this digital toolkit.

Call to Action: VOTE “NO” to Gov. Youngkin’s amendment to HB 1138
Please ask state senators and delegates to vote NO on the Governor’s amendment to HB1138, which essentially overturns Loudoun’s recent school board election. Members of School Boards are elected to serve the full duration of their designated terms. Instead, Governor Youngkin is arbitrarily calling for early elections of ALL school board seats for a Virginia school board this year — merely nine weeks before the filing deadline for what would be new candidates. This is a blatant anti-democratic attempt to intimidate public servants by forcing them to run in an election before their seat’s scheduled election. This opens the door for any future majority and governor to undermine local control and elections.  
ACTION: Please use this link to contact: 
1. All State Senators
2. All Delegates
3. Your Personal Representatives 
Questions, contact Marianne Burke, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com

CALL TO ACTION: FUND OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS – ASAP
One Click Action to Contact bill conferees
This bill will help establish principal and teacher mentor programs, based on the 2021 estimate of the condition and Public School needs in Virginia. It will also improve education in schools with high concentrations of poverty by making these changes: improving student to teacher ratios, providing flexibility in compensation adjustment to teachers, equitable distribution of experienced and effective personnel, supporting at-risk students, hiring of specialist teachers, counselors, and support positions. This is how we need to spend any budget “surplus.” Questions, contact Marianne Burke, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com 

RECURRING Canvassing & Phonebanks

Saturdays, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturdays, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
EasternJoin us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way.Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

Week of Apr 24th

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tuesday, April 26th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Indivisible Below the Beltway Meeting w/ Special Guest, The Hon. Abigail Spanberger
Join Indivisible Below the Beltway, along with members of other organizations, to discuss activities to support our upcoming elections, and what our groups can do to support Democratic candidates in Virginia and secure our democracy. The Honorable Abigail Spanberger will be joining us at 7:30 p.m. to talk about her campaign for re-election and her new district, which now borders Fairfax county, along the Occoquan River. This should make it easy for our members to knock on doors and listen to voters to support her re-election. It is critical we keep this seat to maintain a majority in the House. We also will be talking about: 1) Messaging for voters and potential voters in VA, 2) Postcard plans for our Commonwealth, 3) Voter registration and a partnership with an organization that makes it fun and easy, and 4) Canvassing and talking to voters. Link to Our public-facing FB event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/3156445197931700 Join Zoom Meeting – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82455044997. Meeting ID: 824 5504 4997, Passcode: 056124

Friday, April 29th 9:00am – 11:00am
Alexander Vindman – Special Guest of the Democratic Business Council of Northern Virginia (DemBiz) – at Refraction in Valo Park (Tysons)
Alexander Vindman, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, was most recently the director for Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Russia on the White House’s National Security Council. Previously, he served as the Political-Military Affairs Officer for Russia for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and as an attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russia. While on the Joint Staff, he co-authored the National Military Strategy Russia Annex and was the principal author for the Global Campaign for Russia. He is currently a doctoral student and senior fellow of the Foreign Policy Institute at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), Pritzker Military Fellow at the Lawfare Institute, board member for the Renew Democracy Initiative, senior advisor for VoteVets, and the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir, “Here, Right Matters.” Signed copies of Col. Vindman’s recent book will be available or can be purchased in advance! 
Purchase tickets/books HERE.

Friday, April 29th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Saturday, April 30th, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturday, April 30th, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Friday, May 6th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Teacher Appreciation Week Rally!
We hope you will join us and bring your colleagues, family and friends dressed in Red for Ed. Bring signs that show how you want to be appreciated during Teacher Appreciation Week. We will meet at the Smithsonian Carousel and stand in that section of the mall with the US Capitol as our backdrop. We have applied for a permit and as soon as we get the all clear, we will confirm with everyone. Hopefully the weather will cooperate! If you would like to be added to our private Facebook group, please let us know. Please follow us on Twitter @Stand_DeliverVA 
Instagram: standanddelivervirginia
Like our Facebook Page: standanddeliverva

CALL TO ACTION: Urge Lawmakers to OVERRIDE Governor Youngkin’s Veto of HB1197.
Passed with overwhelming bipartisan support during the 2022 Legislative Session, HB1197 created a workgroup to study the transfer of the Department of Juvenile Justice to the Secretary of Health and Human Services.  Simply, it aimed to answer the question of whether the current organizational structure of the Department of Juvenile Justice is itself a hindrance to rehabilitating children.  In April of 2022, Governor Youngkin vetoed the bill, stifling a critical first step towards considering a public health approach to youth justice in the Commonwealth and evidence informed policy making.
One Click Action
Contact Kelly with any questions: info@justiceforwardva.com

CALLS TO ACTION

Call to Action: VOTE “NO” to Gov. Youngkin’s amendment to HB 1138
Please ask state senators and delegates to vote NO on the Governor’s amendment to HB1138, which essentially overturns Loudoun’s recent school board election. Members of School Boards are elected to serve the full duration of their designated terms. Instead, Governor Youngkin is arbitrarily calling for early elections of ALL school board seats for a Virginia school board this year — merely nine weeks before the filing deadline for what would be new candidates. This is a blatant anti-democratic attempt to intimidate public servants by forcing them to run in an election before their seat’s scheduled election. This opens the door for any future majority and governor to undermine local control and elections.  
ACTION: Please use this link to contact: 
1. All State Senators
2. All Delegates
3. Your Personal Representatives 
Questions, contact Marianne Burke, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com

CALL TO ACTION ON CAMPAIGN FINANCE – ASAP
One Click Action to Ask Senate Democrats and especially conferees of HB86-an excellent campaign finance bill, to appropriate funding in their budget. 
After passing the House 99-1 and getting through the Senate, with a P&E committee vote of 15-0, there is a risk that the Senate will not appropriate the $147,200 which is needed to put in place a system of public disclosure of campaign finance records . This system would be managed by the Dept of Election and allow access to campaign finance records which are publicly accessible, searchable and sortable. The funding is in the House budget but Senate Democrats are resisting its inclusion in their budget.  The conferees of the bills on the Senate side are: Senators Boysko (D), Mason (D), Reeves(R) and the House side: Delegates Anderson (R), Ransone (R), and Glass (D). We are targeting the Democrats.  Any questions, contact nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com

Submit Comments by May 10 to Securities & Exchange Commission on Corporate GHG Emissions – EASY 1-Click!
SCC has proposed a rule requiring publicly traded corporations to disclose their Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the risk climate disasters pose on their infrastructure.  The SCC needs to hear that YOU-  support this critical rule that requires corporations such as Dominion Energy to fully disclose their climate footprint.  PLEASE submit comments by May 10 – click here for Clean Virginia’s Easy Template!
Questions, Contact Sharon Shutler, shutlersharon@gmail.com

RECURRING Canvassing & Phonebanks

Saturdays, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Woodbridge!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Saturdays, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Canvass with Team Spanberger in Prince William County!
Join Beyond Arlington as we canvass in Woodbridge! We will be launching from former Delegate Hala Ayala’s district. Team Spanberger will provide training, PPE, and COVID-19 protocols for safe canvassing. RSVP here

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM Eastern
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

Week of Apr 17th

WofA Membership Meeting
Monday, May 23rd 6:45pm – 8:00pm
Details to follow!
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83842716503
Meeting ID: 838 4271 6503

EVENTS

Thursday, April 21st, 6:00pm
Fighting the Rage Webinar
Join us to learn about the dark forces fighting against public education, their long-term strategy and what to do to combat them and win! Bring your questions and get ready to engage. Presented by 4 Public Education (4PE) local leaders.
RSVP Here

Friday, April 22nd, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP Here

Sunday, April 24th, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Virginia Congressional District 8 Democratic Candidate Forum w/Don Beyer and Victoria Varasingh
Please join Don Beyer and Victoria Virasingh, running for the Democratic nomination for the 8th Congressional District of Virginia in a forum co-sponsored by Progressive Democrats of America-Virginia, Virginia Grassroots Coalition, Network NOVA, Our Revolution Falls Church, Our Revolution Alexandria, and Our Revolution Arlington. Mr Beyer and Ms Varasingh will answer questions from the moderators as well as the audience. The forum will be held at a lakefront home in Lake Barcroft. Lite refreshments will be served and boat rides will be offered as weather permits.
RSVP here

Tuesday, April 26th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Indivisible Below the Beltway Meeting w/ Special Guest, The Hon. Abigail Spanberger
We will be discussing activities to support our upcoming elections, and what our group can do to support Democratic candidates in Virginia and secure our democracy. The Honorable Abigail Spanberger will be joining us at 7:30 p.m. to talk about her campaign for re-election and her new district, which now borders Fairfax county, along the Occoquan River. This should make it easy for our members to knock on doors and listen to voters to support her re-election. It is critical we keep this seat to maintain a majority in the House.
Zoom link

Tuesday, May 17th. 7-8:30 pm
An Evening With Rep. Elaine Luria
Friends of WofA, along with Friends of Virginia Democracy Forward (VADF) and Indivisible Waterfront welcome Rep. Luria to a hybrid in-person/zoom event which will be held at a WofA member’s house in McLean/Arlington. Rep.  Luria, a Navy veteran, represents Virginia  CD-2, and serves on the January 6th Committee. Hear her insights on some of the most pressing issues of our times. She faces a very challenging re-election race this year, after redistricting, and is one of the most endangered Democrats in Congress. RSVP and donation link will be sent next week.
Sign up to join our planning committee (we will meet by zoom Wednesday May 4 at 7:30 ), or help with the event here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1d6-2ZGdPK1ihpaBwuKYmxoFFR8SJEGUzKWKcsOjGQ44/edit

CALLS TO ACTION

CALL TO ACTION ON CAMPAIGN FINANCE – ASAP
One Click Action to Ask Senate Democrats and especially conferees of HB86-an excellent campaign finance bill, to appropriate funding in their budget. 
After passing the House 99-1 and getting through the Senate, with a P&E committee vote of 15-0, there is a risk that the Senate will not appropriate the $147,200 which is needed to put in place a system of public disclosure of campaign finance records . This system would be managed by the Dept of Election and allow access to campaign finance records which are publicly accessible, searchable and sortable. The funding is in the House budget but Senate Democrats are resisting its inclusion in their budget.  The conferees of the bills on the Senate side are: Senators Boysko (D), Mason (D), Reeves(R) and the House side: Delegates Anderson (R), Ransone (R), and Glass (D). We are targeting the Democrats.  Any questions, contact nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com

CALL TO ACTION: FUND OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS – ASAP
One Click Action to Contact bill conferees
This bill will help establish principal and teacher mentor programs, based on the 2021 estimate of the condition and Public School needs in Virginia. It will also improve education in schools with high concentrations of poverty by making these changes: improving student to teacher ratios, providing flexibility in compensation adjustment to teachers, equitable distribution of experienced and effective personnel, supporting at-risk students, hiring of specialist teachers, counselors, and support positions. This is how we need to spend any budget “surplus.” Questions, contact Marianne Burke, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com 

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state. RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up here: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/438331/

If you live in McLean, PLEASE VOTE in the McLean Community Center Governing Board election by May 18
McLean residents should vote between now and May 18, either at the Community Center (open 7 days a week) or via mail. You can vote for three adult slots on the board, which has lately held public meetings where anti-LGBTQ and far right agendas have been pushed by Republicans in the audience. Among the candidates this year is Katie Gorka, wife of far-right white nationalist Sebastian Gorka. Please consider voting for three progressives running for the board:  Anna Bartosiewicz, Ari Ghasemian and Kristina Groennings. – you can find more info here.  To request a mail ballot, phone 703-744-9348, fill out an online request form or email elections@mcleancenter.org

Week of Apr 10th

EVENTS

Tuesday, April 12th, 6:00pm
MoneyOut Campaign Finance Reform Meeting
Join us to discuss: 1) Key legislators whom we have targeted; planned engagement. Click here for google sheet.  Update on candidate pledges. 2) Building a base of constituents around the State. 3) Engaging with the business community (update from Nancy and Patti). 4) Moving forward with a comms strategy, including technical briefs for the Sub-Committee (assuming the Governor signs HS53). Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89983440649?pwd=aEZRZm1URkNtK1ptWENWNlFkRnN4UT09 

Tuesday, April 12th, 7:30pm
SWEEP Salon: How to Unify Divided Communities and Support Your Schools
Right-wing culture wars at our school boards are deliberate attempts to scare suburban parents and divide communities to win elections. But we do not have to let these tactics prevail! Join us to hear from Karen Gondek, a suburban mom and communication expert from Hudson, OH. When controversy erupted in her community around school issues, she led an effort to create respectful dialogue and calm tensions. Learn how she was able to reach those with opposing views, help create unity and make school board meetings productive again in Hudson!
RSVP here

Friday, April 15th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Monday, April 18th, 7:00pm
NAACP, Arlington Branch Monthly Meeting
RSVP: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvdu-gpzkpE9XJn5vI3Fy-LO6f1r0qli7V?fbclid=IwAR17Uxg1zEI-yrQgoXuwSVgfWp9EJy6YYzdWR2MUSm7x0hoxj_bh4Tc_3y0

Friday, April 22nd, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

ACTION

ATTENTION WOFA POSTCARD WRITERS: We have an opportunity to write postcards to Black registered voters in Georgia urging them to vote in the May 24th primary. Georgia will be one of the most important states in 2022 with a crucial Senate race to re-elect Sen. Warnock. Stacey Abrams also is running for Governor to fight back against restrictive voting restrictions that have made it harder to vote in Georgia. That’s why it is more important than ever to engage with voters early and often. If voters participate in the primary, they are much more likely to vote in the General Election. Postcards should be mailed between April 15-25 and you can request them here.

Week of Apr 3rd

EVENTS

Tuesday, April 5th, 6:00pm
MoneyOutVA Weekly Meeting
We’ll quickly review where we are in our 6-month action plan, then explore how to engage with legislators to sign our campaign finance pledges with guest speaker, Marie Henselder Kimmel, AP state coordinator for New Jersey.  In follow up our discussion on our strategic plan last week, let’s review some one-page briefs on campaign finance reform with colleagues from VAOurWay, and plan on a time frame for moving ahead to influence some 20-25 legislators whom we have targeted.  Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89983440649?pwd=aEZRZm1URkNtK1ptWENWNlFkRnN4UT09

Wednesday, April 7th, 6:00pm
Organizing the Local Dem Committee & Grassroots w/ Neighborhood Team Initiative
Join an information meeting to discuss “Action Plan to Strengthen Democratic Grassroots Campaigning”  by creating a permanent year round Grassroots Campaign Organization.  Come learn about the Neighborhood Team Approach!  Speaker: Ray Smith, Team Leader of Team Central Braddock.  Hosted by Network NOVA – Katherine White, Stair Calhoun, Robbin Warner. RSVP here

Wednesday, April 6th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Support Grassroots to Win in North Carolina
Winning North Carolina in 2022 is crucial. What’s at stake? Control of the U.S. Senate and the state supreme court. These three grassroots groups reach voters who don’t always vote and they support Democratic candidates for local and state office. Together they build long-term power in key parts of NC.  There is a $6,000 match in effect starting today – so please consider donating now! Donate and RSVP here.

Thursday, April 7th, 7:00pm
Stand and Deliver Organizing Meeting
We will strategize the best ways to achieve our goals and engage as many educators and friends in the work as possible. Bring your ideas! Bring a like-minded friend!  Email Micaela to receive the Zoom link, standanddeliverva@gmail.com

Friday, April 8th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
Hear from a large group of high school organizers about what they are up to! RSVP here

Sunday, April 10th, 9:00am – 11:00am
Brunch with a Purpose, supporting Victoria Virasingh
Location: Bus Boys & Poets, hosted by Jolicia Ward
For this event, we partnered with Bridges to Independence Local Shelter Home & we will be collecting their TOP TEN ESSENTIAL ITEMS of Request! These include: hand towels, towels, bottled water, Lysol wipes, healthy kid snacks, Kleenex tissues, hand sanitizer, body wash, toothpaste and toothbrushes! RSVP here

Sunday, April 10th, 12:00pm
Women’s Summit 2022 Interest Meeting
Please join Network NOVA as we discuss plans for 2022 and brainstorm for best ideas. RSVP here

Monday, April 11th, 7:00pm
Defending Democracy in the Heartland – Keynote Speaker, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers
Wisconsin is at the epicenter of the Democratic fight for fair elections, control of the Senate, and winning the White House in 2024. Governor Tony Evers has stood firm against Republicans’ assault on access to voting and threats to counting all votes. Senator Ron Johnson is considered “the most vulnerable incumbent senator” from either party according to the Cook Report. Statewide races in Wisconsin are won by the narrowest of margins. Organizing led by grassroots groups will be one key to winning. Join us on April 11th to hear from Governor Evers and Angela Lang, leader of BLOC (Black Leaders Organizing for Communities) about how we win Wisconsin in 2022. RSVP here

Monday, April 11th, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room  RSVP here

Thursday, April 21st, 6:00pm
Fighting the Rage Webinar
Join us to learn about the dark forces fighting against public education, their long-term strategy and what to do to combat them and win! Bring your questions and get ready to engage. Presented by 4 Public Education (4PE) local leaders. RSVP Here

Friday, April 22nd, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch. RSVP here

Sunday, April 24th, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Virginia Congressional District 8 Democratic Candidate Forum w/Don Beyer and Victoria Varasingh
Please join Don Beyer & Victoria Virasingh, running for Democratic nomination for the 8th Congressional District of Virginia in a forum co-sponsored by Progressive Democrats of America-Virginia, Virginia Grassroots Coalition, Network NOVA, Our Revolution Falls Church, Our Revolution Alexandria, and Our Revolution Arlington. Mr Beyer and Ms Varasingh will answer questions from moderators as well as the audience. The forum will be held at a lakefront home in Lake Barcroft. Lite refreshments will be served and boat rides will be offered as weather permits. RSVP here

CALLS TO ACTION

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state.
RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

ATTENTION WOFA POSTCARD WRITERS: We have an opportunity to write postcards to Black registered voters in Georgia urging them to vote in the May 24th primary. Georgia will be one of the most important states in 2022 with a crucial Senate race to re-elect Sen. Warnock. Stacey Abrams also is running for Governor to fight back against restrictive voting restrictions that have made it harder to vote in Georgia. That’s why it is more important than ever to engage with voters early and often. If voters participate in the primary, they are much more likely to vote in the General Election. Postcards should be mailed between April 15-25 and you can request them here.

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In The House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way.
Sign up here.

Wednesday, April 6th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Support Grassroots to Win in North Carolina
Winning North Carolina in 2022 is crucial. What’s at stake? Control of the U.S. Senate and the state supreme court. These three grassroots groups reach voters who don’t always vote and they support Democratic candidates for local and state office. Together they build long-term power in key parts of NC. Donate and RSVP here

If you live in McLean, PLEASE VOTE in the McLean Community Center Governing Board election by May 18
McLean residents should vote between now and May 18, either at the Community Center (open 7 days a week) or via mail. You can vote for three adult slots on the board, which has lately held public meetings where anti-LGBTQ and far right agendas have been pushed by Republicans in the audience. Among the candidates this year is Katie Gorka, wife of far-right white nationalist Sebastian Gorka. Please consider voting for three progressives running for the board:  Anna Bartosiewicz, Ari Ghasemian and Kristina Groennings. – you can find more info here.  To request a mail ballot, phone 703-744-9348, fill out an online request form or email elections@mcleancenter.org

Week of Mar 27th

IN PERSON! 
Friday, April 1 6-7:30 PM
WofA Membership Meeting and Get-together
WofA will gather at Amy Bergner’s house (McLean/North Arlington location) for our first in-person meeting in two years. Come discuss what’s on your mind, what actions you’d like to get involved with, enjoy refreshments and connect with new and old friends.  It’s time to roll up our sleeves once again, WofA’s! Please sign up to get the address information.

CALLS TO ACTION

ATTENTION WOFA POSTCARD WRITERS: We have an opportunity to write postcards to Black registered voters in Georgia urging them to vote in the May 24th primary. Georgia will be one of the most important states in 2022 with a crucial Senate race to re-elect Sen. Warnock. Stacey Abrams also is running for Governor to fight back against restrictive voting restrictions that have made it harder to vote in Georgia. That’s why it is more important than ever to engage with voters early and often. If voters participate in the primary, they are much more likely to vote in the General Election. Postcards should be mailed between April 15-25 and you can request them here.

Still time to contribute to Friends of WofA Fundraiser for Rep. Jennifer Wexton 
Friends of WofA was a sponsor of a successful fundraiser for Rep. Jennifer Wexton on March 19th  — thanks to all who donated and attended! If you missed it, but would still like to donate, they need our “early money”, so please consider a contribution. She has lost almost all of her Democratic-leaning precincts in Fairfax and gained Republican-leaning precincts to the south and west.  It is expected that margins in the 10th District will be much tighter in 2022, and keeping Congresswoman Wexton’s seat will depend on her having the resources to get out the Democratic vote. Please contribute at this link:https://secure.actblue.com/donate/03192022

Phonebanks for North Carolina
Join Neighbors on Call and County to County for weekly phonebanks to support 4 endangered legislative candidates – Batch, Everitt, Farkas, Hurtado. These are key seats to keep the R’s from overriding vetos by Gov. Cooper and rolling back democracy and rights in the state.
RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/countytocountync/?tag_ids=283

Virtual Sunday “Defend & Flip Seats In House & Senate” Phone Banks, 6PM
Join us as we call into the battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. We’ll be calling to register voters in battleground states as well as asking them which issues are most important to them. No experience necessary. We will have training available at every phone bank and coaches helping you all along the way. Sign up HERE.

Sunday, April 3rd, 5:00pm – 8:00pm
Virtual Voter Communication Training and Phonebank
During the training, you will learn 1) how to feel comfortable while phone banking, 2) how to communicate with voters and sound sincere, 3) how to make the script your own without memorizing it, 4) how to share your personal story with voters, 5) how to be a more impactful phone banker, 6) learn about scripts and why we call during different stages of an election. We’ll have a 1hr Communication Training and 2hr phone bank so you can practice your new communication skills. Sign Up at: https://www.mobilize.us/call4change/event/446981/

Wednesday, April 6th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Support Grassroots to Win in North Carolina
Winning North Carolina in 2022 is crucial. What’s at stake? Control of the U.S. Senate and the state supreme court. These three grassroots groups reach voters who don’t always vote and they support Democratic candidates for local and state office. Together they build long-term power in key parts of NC. Donate and RSVP here

UPCOMING EVENTS

Wednesday, March 30^th, 7:30-8:30 pm
Indivisible Waterfront Kick Off Zoom Meeting with Rep. Elaine Luria
Please join in as Indivisible Waterfront kicks off the 2022 election season with an update from Rep. Luria about Jan 6th and her thoughts on the war in Ukraine.  At a time of crisis for democracy at home and in Europe, Rep. Luria (VA 2) is the kind of steady hand and clear voice this country needs in the House. As a career Naval officer in a combat command, she prepared for military threats abroad. As a member of the Jan. 6th panel, she understands in detail the domestic threat to our democracy that culminated that day. To register click Yes, I’ll be there

Help for Ukraine from Washington Post: Full Link here

• Voices of Children, a charitable foundation based in Ukraine, has been serving the psychological needs of children affected by the war in the country’s east since 2015, according to its website. The group’s psychologists specialize in art therapy and provide general psychosocial support with group classes or individual sessions. Many of its psychologists are based in the regions of Luhansk and Donetsk, areas that have long been controlled by Russian-backed separatists and that are on the front lines of the current, wider conflict. Now, Voices of Children is providing assistance to children and families all over Ukraine, even helping with evacuations. You can donate here.
• Journalists with the Kyiv Independent have done tremendous work covering the war, offering the world constant updates as they fear for themselves, their families and their homes. The Independent has started a GoFundMe asking for support, but they’ve also promoted a separate GoFundMe — “Keep Ukraine’s media going” — for journalists around the country who have received less international attention. “[Ukraine’s reporters] have shown extraordinary courage, but the reality on the ground is that most operations cannot continue from Ukraine alone,” one organizer wrote. “This fundraiser is aimed at helping media relocate, set-up back offices and continue their operations from neighboring countries.”
• José Andrés, the beloved D.C. chef famous for feeding people in need around the world, is already in Europe with his World Central Kitchen team helping provide “thousands of meals in Poland, Romania and even inside Ukraine,” he wrote on Twitter. Anyone who wishes to donate to the efforts can go here.
• Razom for Ukraine was founded in 2014 and has since launched efforts to build a stronger democracy in the country. Now, according to its website, the nonprofit is “focused on purchasing medical supplies for critical situations like blood loss and other tactical medicine items. We have a large procurement team of volunteers that tracks down and purchases supplies and a logistics team that then gets them to Ukraine.” Razom — which means “together” in Ukrainian — posted a list of the lifesaving supplies it has already purchased and is asking for more support here.
• Click on the website for Care, the international humanitarian juggernaut, and a pop-up window appears. “UKRAINE EMERGENCY,” the alert says, with a photo of a woman holding a child. “Families in Ukraine are fleeing violence and urgently need emergency aid. CARE is providing food, water, and more,” the homepage says. The group has partnered with People in Need and hopes to build a fund that can reach 4 million people, especially women, girls and the elderly. Donations for Care can be made here.
• Save the Children, founded more than a century ago, is blunt about the grueling nature of its work: “We work in the hardest-to-reach places, where it’s toughest to be a child,” its homepage says. The organization says it is “gravely concerned” for the children of Ukraine and Afghanistan. Its donation page says that $50 can prevent three children from going hungry for a month, $150 can provide warm blankets for 30 children, and $300 can furnish masks to refugee health workers on the front lines.
• Sunflower of Peace is a small nonprofit with ambitions to help Ukrainian orphans and internally displaced people. A post on its Facebook page in mid-February said it had launched a fundraiser for first-aid medical tactical backpacks. Each backpack, it says, can save up to 10 people. They’re packed with bandages and anti-hemorrhagic medicines, among other critical items. The group has worked mostly off its Facebook page, where it’s accepting donations.

Week of Mar 20th

UPCOMING EVENTS

Wednesday, March 23rd, 7:00pm
Roundtable Discussion on Good Governance Bills
The Virginia General Assembly has just ended. Lets review the status of various good governance bills, in particular those related to campaign finance reform and ranked choice voting. After reviewing how various bills fared in the last G.A., lessons learned/best practices on building citizen advocacy on these issues will be explored. Organized by the Virginia Chapter of American Promise and VAOurWay, we will be joined by Elizabeth Melson, Founding member and President of FairVote Virginia, a coalition of concerned Virginians advocating for Ranked Choice Voting and Brian Cannon, ex-Director of OneVirginia 2021 and now working nationally on ranked choice voting.  Register here 

Friday, March 25, 9AM
Skye Perryman, President & CEO of Democracy Forward
Webinar sponsored by DemBiz (the Democratic Business Council of Northern Virginia). Registration is free and required. 
Democracy depends on a government that works for all people. Since 2017, Democracy Forward has filed over 650 legal actions and records requests challenging unlawful acts, fought vigorously in court on behalf of those harmed, and notched victories that have improved lives and protected the rule of law. Skye Perryman is a lawyer, advocate, and leader with a track record of taking on and winning critical fights that advance democratic values, stop abuses of power, and improve the wellbeing of people and communities.

Saturday, March 26th. 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Celebrate Women’s History Month – Special Program to Meet Reps. Wexton & Spanberger. Please join us to celebrate Women’s History Month & the leadership of women in Prince William County.  U.S. Senator Mark Warner is hosting this event to support the re-election of Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger and Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton. Because of redistricting, both Congresswomen now represent portions of Prince William County.  Come meet, chat, and ask questions of these dedicated and passional public servants. More Info and RSVP

Wednesday, March 30^th, 7:30-8:30 pm
Indivisible Waterfront Kick Off Zoom Meeting with Rep. Elaine Luria
Please join in as Indivisible Waterfront kicks off the 2022 election season with an update from Rep. Luria about her Jan 6th committee service and her thoughts on the war in Ukraine.  At a time of crisis for democracy at home and in Europe, Rep. Luria (VA 2) is the kind of steady hand and clear voice this country needs in the House. As a career Naval officer in a combat command, she prepared for military threats abroad. As a member of the Jan. 6th panel, she understands in detail the domestic threat to our democracy that culminated that day. To register click Yes, I’ll be there

Week of Mar 13th

EVENTS

Friday, March 17th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Saturday, March 19  5:00 – 7:00 pm
Fundraiser for Rep. Jennifer Wexton in McLean/N Arlington
Join Friends of WofA and VADF for a fundraiser for Rep. Jennifer Wexton (10th Congressional District VA). In Congress, Jennifer Wexton has worked to make health care more affordable for our families, keep our kids safe from gun violence, and has fought to protect the interests of federal workers and contractors in our region. Rep. Wexton’s race for re-election for her newly redistricted congressional seat hasn’t garnered national attention, but it’s expected to be a fierce fight. She has lost almost all of her Democratic-leaning precincts in Fairfax and gained Republican-leaning precincts to the south and west.  It is expected that margins in the 10th District will be much tighter in 2022, and keeping Congresswoman Wexton’s seat will depend on her having the resources to get out the Democratic vote. Vaccination and mask required. Please join us and/or contribute at this link. https://secure.actblue.com/donate/03192022

Monday, March 21st, 8:00pm
“Keep Virginia Blue” War Room
RSVP here

Sister District Project National Phonebank 2022
Collaborating with progressive partners allows us to increase our field capacity and contact more voters. Through the National Phonebank program, we multiplied our field impact in partnership with amazing organizations including Vote Save America, Human Rights Campaign, Run for Something, South Asians for America and more. Contact us at jarvis@sisterdistrict.com to become a National Phonebank partner with us.

Civic Influencers is hiring for our Summer and Fall cohort. 
If you know of any young people interested in being Civic Influencers, please encourage them to complete our online application. We recruit from community colleges and 4-year colleges, HBCUs, HSIs, Tribal colleges, AAPI colleges, and rural and urban communities. 

Wednesday, March 30^th, 7:30-8:30 pm
Indivisible Waterfront Kick Off Zoom Meeting with Rep. Elaine Luria
Please join in as Indivisible Waterfront kicks off the 2022 election season with an update from Rep. Luria about her Jan 6th committee service and her thoughts on the war in Ukraine.  At a time of crisis for democracy at home and in Europe, Rep. Luria (VA 2) is the kind of steady hand and clear voice this country needs in the House. As a career Naval officer in a combat command, she prepared for military threats abroad. As a member of the Jan. 6th panel, she understands in detail the domestic threat to our democracy that culminated that day. To register click Yes, I’ll be there

Week of Mar 6th

EVENTS

Monday, March 14th 6:45 – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85678013810

Sunday, March 13th 3-4 p.m.
Stand and Deliver Virginia Rally 
Join concerned educators (including our own Micaela) who want to stand up against the false narrative and attacks on public education being led by politicians in Richmond and across the nation. Join us Sunday and help us deliver a loud and clear message that public educators are committed to the inclusive and respectful education of our children. We will have speakers, voter registration, and tables with organizations that are concerned for their communities and need your help.  RSVP here. To help with the registration table, set up, clean up and voter registration and information, please contact Micaela directly.

CALLS TO ACTION

Two key campaign finance bills will be heard on the Senate floor this week.   We started the year with 24 campaign finance bills and now we are struggling to keep 4 afloat. Of concern, 7 Democrats voted against Del Tim Anderson’s disclosure bill (HB86) in the Finance Committee on Friday, with some reversing their vote from the Senate P&E vote on Tuesday which was 15-0. Luckily, it passed 8-7. The Democratic senators who voted “no” in Finance Committee are Lucas, Locke, Marsden, Howell, Saslaw, McClellan, and Edwards. Republicans who voted “Yes” on Anderson’s bill are Norment, Hanger, Newman, and Ruff.

Please send a message to your Senator or any Senators whom you want to target. Click here for the contact information for all the Senators.  Don’t know what to say?  Just mention the following: 

• You, along with almost 80 percent of Virginians, want campaign finance reform in our Commonwealth, including full disclosure and improved oversight.
• The Anderon bill passed the House 99-1 and the Anderson and Bulova bills passed out of P&E Committee 15-0!!.  They are solid bills with bipartisan support.
• Voting against the bill is a message that you don’t support good governance legislation. 
• Please vote for the bills, HB86 and HB492, on the Senate floor this upcoming week. 

UPCOMING EVENTS – Virginia Grassroots Coalition

Wednesday, March 9th, 8:30am – 9:30am
Weekly League of Women Voters’ Legislative Roundtables In Person With Virtual Option
Topic: Final Legislative Push RSVP here

March 9th and 10th
All Rev’d Up For Equality in Richmond
The fight for equality is not over! Let’s gather in Richmond to socialize, legislate, advocate & give thanks to our equality supporters. Start with Social Hour on the 9th and participate in the legislative breakfast, rally, delivery of gratitude and visit to the gallery on the 10th. Press release here. More Info and RSVP here

Wednesday, March 9th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm 
Messaging for Progressive Victories: A Conversation with Anat Shenker-Osorio
Hear from Anat Shenker-Osorio, host of the “Words to Win By” podcast and Principal of ASO Communications, on why certain messages falter when others deliver. Learn research-based tools to be more persuasive when talking and writing for progressive candidates and causes! If you’ve ever wondered what to write in a letter, what to say on the phone, how to talk to a voter at their door or even relatives across a table, this event is for you.  RSVP here

Thursday, March 10th
“Democrats United” Meet & Greet @ DNC Winter Meeting (DC)
Hosted by Northern Virginia For Biden Founder and Candidate for DPVA Chair Jim McBride. RSVP here https://tinyurl.com/DemsUnitedDNCFacebook

Friday, March 11th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch RSVP here

Saturday, March 12th, 3:30pm
Lake Barcroft Meet and Greet with Don Beyer
Please join us for a glorious Spring afternoon on the shores of Lake Barcroft to meet the amazing Congressman Don Beyer. We will be serving  Jake’s Ice Cream sodas and Spring tea snacks.  Hosted by Stair Calhoun, Holly Hazard and Robin Rinearson.There is no charge. RSVP here

Saturday, March 12th, 6:00pm to 9:00pm
14th Annual Mount Vernon Democrats Mardi Gras Celebration & Straw Poll
Come for the music, food and fun! Enjoy New Orleans-style Gumbo, Beignets, King Cakes, and other delicious food. Listen to great live New Orleans jazz music from a six-piece dixieland jazz band, and hear from our great elected officials and candidates. Participate in the annual straw poll, and cast your ballot for your favorite Congressional candidate! For the first time in 14 years, the event will be in the South County region of Fairfax County. Enjoy our new venue, the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center, where you can not only view amazing art, but also interact with the amazing artists who will be presenting their art on March 12th. Also, the Suffragette Museum will be open for all event attendees to view. To buy tickets or sponsor, please click here: https://bit.ly/MountVernonDemsMardiGras 

Sunday, March 13th, 4:00pm
Virginia Redistricting
Newly-designed district lines for House of Delegates, State Senate and Congress call for strategy in our work to win and defend Democratic seats in Virginia. We’ll explore where good opportunities for volunteering exist and what the numbers mean. Our presenter will be Sam Shirazi, who has been studying redistricting issues from the last and now this recent drawing of lines. Sam, a Virginia lawyer, lives in Arlington with his wife and two young children. RSVP here

Week of Feb 27th

EVENTS

Donate to Ukraine (see info at bottom)

Tuesday, March 1st, 5:00pm 
Messaging Working Group Meeting
RSVP to Finale Norton, finale-norton@cox.net 

Tuesday, March 1st, 6:00pm
MoneyOut – Campaign Finance Reform Meeting
Let’s review the status of the 7 MoneyOut bills still stumbling through our General Assembly. Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86093163540?pwd=Yi9tUS9reUZwM2Fpem4vUVVVMnV6UT09

Tuesday, March 1st, 6:00pm
Planning Meeting for June 18th Poor People’s and Low-wage Workers Moral March
We are looking forward to gathering with you as we launch a major mobilization effort with poor folks, faith communities, partner organizations, and moral allies across Virginia toward the Mass Poor People’s and Low-wage Workers’ Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls on June 18. We’ll hear from Campaign Co-Chairs, Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis and Rev. Dr. William Barber, II, about the vision for June 18, and then talk about how we can work together to organize and mobilize a powerful showing of people from Virginia on that day. 
Join Zoom here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85869724828

Tuesday, March 1st, 8:15pm
Northern Virginia For Biden Statue of the Union Watch Party (Virtual & In-Person)
Join Northern Virginia For Biden to watch President Biden’s first official State of the Union Address!  We will host an in-person event at PJ Skiddoo’s in Fairfax and an online event via Zoom, so we can meet fellow democrats and hear from local democratic leaders to hear about how we can Keep Virginia Blue in 2022 and beyond. During this time of crisis for Ukraine caused by Vladmir Putin which former President Donald Trump calls as an act of “genius” this is a great opportunity to rally behind President Biden as he seeks to UNITE the nation in defense of democracy at home and abroad. RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/NoVAforBidenSOTUWatchParty

Wednesday, March 2nd, 8:30am – 9:30am
Weekly League of Women Voters’ Legislative Roundtables In Person w/ Virtual Option
Upcoming topics are:
Mar 2 – Floods – full disclosure of flood zones
Mar 9 – Final Legislative Push
RSVP here

Friday, March 4th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch RSVP here

Monday, March 7th, 7:00-8:00pm
Climate & Clean Energy Working Group Meeting with Delegate Rip Sullivan
Mark your calendars for the next meeting of the Climate & Clean Energy Working Group.   Our guest speaker will be Del. Rip Sullivan, champion of the Virginia Clean Economy Act and other climate and clean energy initiatives.  Rip will summarize the session to date, the remaining challenges for this session, and address potential damaging appointments by the Youngkin administration. Contact Sharon Shutler shutlersharon@gmail.com or Amy Bergner abbergner@gmail.com for more information.  Join Zoom Meeting HERE
Meeting ID: 895 4442 4204 Passcode: 662221

Wednesday, March 9th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm 
Learn to Communicate in Ways that Win
Join us for this event with Anat Shenker-Osorio, host of the “Words to Win By” podcast and Principal of ASO Communications.  Save-the-Date!

Saturday March 19th 5:00 – 7:00pm
Fundraiser for Rep. Jennifer Wexton’s re-election (see attached flyer)
McLean/N. Arlington location – various donation levels
https://secure.actblue.com/donate/03192022

CALLS TO ACTION

From the Virginia Grassroots Coalition: All Calls to Action link
Below are this week’s Calls to Action. We have very little time left in the legislative session, so contact your legislators TODAY

GOOD GOVERNANCE

Ask the House P&E Committee to Support Reforming the Recall Process in Virginia – Vote YES on SB495
This bill creates a more transparent and efficient recall process for elected officials in Virginia, returning the power to remove elected officials to voters. The changes recommended are in line with the recall processes in many states, and are a common sense set of reforms to codify a recall process that is both clearly defined and attainable, but not liable to being used frivolously. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=495 Questions: Contact Luisa Boyarski, luisaboyarski@gmail.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

CLIMATE, CLEAN ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT
All Calls to Action link

Oppose HB1257 – An American Gas Ass’n Bill that Limits Local Governments’ Tools to Combat Climate Change
This bill would remove a critical climate change tool by prohibiting local governments from pursuing policies that limit reliance on natural gas and is part of nationwide strategy of the American Gas Association (AGA) which is afraid that communities will choose to repower with clean energy if they have the option.  Burning fossil fuels in homes and businesses results in 9% of all U.S. emissions and poses a serious threat to climate action.  Accordingly, many communities want to meet the energy needs of new buildings with electricity which saves money and reduces carbon pollution. Do not be fooled by the AGA’s false “energy choice” narrative, and arguments that the bill merely protects consumer choice. If Virginia’s localities decide that natural gas is not right for their communities, that should be their choice, not the AGA’s. 
Click Link to Take Action  
This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.  Questions?  Contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com

EDUCATION
All ED Calls to Action Link

Ask our Delegates to Fully Fund our Public Schools by voting YES on SB490  This bill is now in the House Appropriations Committee.  Based on the 2021 estimate of the condition and needs for Public Schools in Virginia, this bill will help to establish principal and teacher mentor programs. SB490 will also improve conditions in schools with high concentrations of poverty by improving student to teacher ratios, providing flexibility in compensation adjustment to teachers, prioritizing distribution of experienced and effective personnel, supporting at-risk students, and by hiring of specialist teachers, counselors, and support staff. This is how we need to spend any budget “surplus”.  https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?221+sum+SB490
Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=490&year=2022
Questions: email Marianne Burke, marianne.vagrassrootscoalition@gmail.com

VOTING RIGHTS
All Voting Rights Calls to Action Link

Tell the 5 Privileges and Elections subcommittee members who killed all House Restore the Right to Vote bills, to pass SJ1!
Please participate in and promote this Call to Action to get the constitutional amendment automatically to restore the right to vote upon release from prison passed in the Virginia House of Delegates. It has already passed in the Virginia State Senate. When the House Privileges and Elections subcommittee met to discuss the amendment for returning citizens, five members killed all of the bills in one vote at 7am. This was after activists spoke in favor of this important legislation with no one speaking in opposition. These five members have a chance to do the right thing and vote in favor of SJ1 and SB21, the Senate version of the constitutional amendment, when it comes up for a vote in their subcommittee.   Click here to take action: http://oneclickpolitics.global.ssl.fastly.net/messages/edit?promo_id=15708 

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM
All CFR Calls to Action Link

Support 3 Campaign Finance Bills Moving to the House
Ask Delegates to vote for the following three (3) campaign finance/disclosure bills carried over to the House of Delegates: SB 222, Senator Jeremy McPike, SB318, Senator Barbara Favola, SB 463 Senator John Bell. Click here to take easy action. Questions: email nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com

Support 4 Campaign Finance Bills Moving to the Senate
Ask Senators to vote for the following four (4) campaign finance/disclosure bills which have moved from the House. Disclosure:  HB86,  Delegate Tim Anderson; HB125, Delegate Glenn Davis; Oversight, HB492 Delegate David Bulova; Extending Mandate of the Joint Sub-Committee, HJ53 Delegate David Bulova. Click here to take easy action. Questions: email nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com

CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM
All Justice Reform Calls to Action Link

Ask House Courts of Justice Members to Support Second Look SB378
We expect this legislation to be heard in the House Courts of Justice soon, so act right away. Second Look legislation would allow judges to review lengthy prison sentences, years after they have been imposed, to determine if that severity of punishment is still necessary and appropriate. People change, our laws should reflect that.  Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-alt.php?cta=cta-035b Questions: Contact info@justiceforwardva.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

PROTECTING WORKER’S RIGHTS

Call to Action from SEIU – Protect Collective Bargaining Rights
The House of Delegates narrowly voted to pass several bills to repeal/weaken county and city workers’ right to collectively bargain. This was not unexpected, as the House of Delegates currently has a narrow anti-worker majority. These bills will now go to the State Senate. The State Senate has already killed similar anti-Collective Bargaining bills, but they will have to vote again on these specific bills (House Bills 335, 336, 337, 341 and 883). We are taking nothing for granted, so we’re asking everyone to take action today! Please click here or click tinyurl.com/ProtectCB to email your State Senator TODAY and ask them to Protect Your Collective Bargaining Rights!

Even with Western support, Ukraine’s army and its legions of volunteer fighters are severely outgunned by Russian forces. The National Bank of Ukraine has created an account where people from around the world can donate to the country’s military.

Week of Feb 21st

EVENTS

Monday, Feb 28th 7:00pm – 8:00pm
NAACP Arlington Branch – Monthly Membership Meeting
Register Here
https://www.facebook.com/events/332974711925394/?ref=newsfeed

Wednesday, March 9th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm 
Learn to Communicate in Ways that Win
Join us for this event with Anat Shenker-Osorio, host of the “Words to Win By” podcast and Principal of ASO Communications. 
Save the Date

Monday, March 14th
WofA Membership Meeting
Save the Date!

Saturday March 19th 5:00 – 7:00pm
Fundraiser for Rep. Jennifer Wexton’s re-election (see below flyer)
McLean/N. Arlington location – various donation levels
https://secure.actblue.com/donate/03192022

CALLS TO ACTION

There are a few GOOD bills that have crossed over from the Senate to the House and we need to make sure our legislators vote for them.  Unfortunately, there are also quite a few BAD bills that have crossed over from the House to the Senate that we need to block from passing.  Below are URGENT Calls to Action, which are listed by issue area.  Please take action and share them with your friends & families.  We need to make sure the other chamber knows how we want them to vote!

GOOD GOVERNMENT

Ask the House P&E Committee to Support Reforming the Recall Process in Virginia – Vote YES on SB495
This bill creates a more transparent and efficient recall process for elected officials in Virginia, returning the power to remove elected officials to voters. The changes recommended are in line with the recall processes in many states, and are a common sense set of reforms to codify a recall process that is both clearly defined and attainable, but not liable to being used frivolously. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=495 Questions: Contact Luisa Boyarski, luisaboyarski@gmail.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

CLIMATE, CLEAN ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT

(Having trouble remembering what emails you’ve sent, or just want a fun diversion, Play Opposition Bingo!) Questions? Contact Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com or Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com))

Oppose HB118 – a Climate Change Denier’s Dream
HB118 is a horrible bill which would gut nearly every critical provision of the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA), overturn our beneficial participation in RGGI, and radically slow Virginia’s transition into a clean economy.  The House passed this bill along party lines and there is no room to spare in the Senate — we need to shore up opposition. Click Here to Take Action

Oppose HB1301 – Another Bill Repealing the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)
HB1301 is yet another Republican attempt to repeal RGGI, the incredibly successful regional effort to reduce pollution while directly helping communities on the front lines.  Virginia’s participation not only reduces air pollution and improves public health, but in 2021 alone, it provided over $220 million in desperately needed funds to help thousands of low-wealth families reduce energy bills and climate impact, and localities deal with increasingly devastating floods. Click Link to Take Action

Oppose HB892 – Don’t Let Wealthy Corporations Opt out of Paying for Clean Energy and Undercutting RGGI
There is no justification for a unique ability to bypass RGGI, and HB 892 would create an unnecessary precedent. Virginians are already benefiting from $237 million toward flood resilience and energy efficiency efforts in the first year of RGGI-generated funds. RGGI is proven to bring economic, health and energy efficiency benefits to participating states. Allowing a power company – which has the ability to negotiate its own contracts – to have a special exemption from RGGI is a bad deal for Virginians. Please continue to support RGGI as it is working. The program is driving down emissions, improving public health, and bringing in critical funding to Virginians. Click Link to Take Action

Oppose HB1326 – Stop Using Dirty Coal in Virginia
HB1326 would take Virginia backwards and make consumers pay for it by encouraging utilities to burn waste coal from mining waste dumps that litter coalfields (“GOB piles”). Better options are available, including $22 million per year coming to Virginia from the federal infrastructure bill, specifically aimed at clean-up and reclamation of abandoned mines.  Click Link to Take Action

IF YOU HAVE NOT already taken the following CTAs from last week, DON’T DELAY:

Stop House Bills Gutting the Virginia Clean Economy Act [Vote NO HB73, HB74] Both bills gut provisions of the VCEA.  HB73 would prevent solar, wind, and energy efficiency projects from being given priority by the State Corporation Commision.  It would dampen investment in clean energy companies and deprive Virginia of clean energy jobs (4,300 in the solar sector) sending a terrible message to clean energy businesses Virginia wants to attract. It would also slow Virginia’s move towards 100% zero-carbon electric sector.  HB74 subsidizes clean energy costs of large industrial customers and shifts these costs to Virginia ratepayers. Wealthy corporations should not be allowed to “bypass” these costs and shift them to those already burdened by high energy bills.  Click Link to Take Action

Keep RGGI Out of the Budget [Oppose SB 30, Item 4-5.12 #1g]
If accepted, Item 4-5.12 #1g would overturn the 2020 Clean Energy and Community Flood Preparedness Act, and even require state agencies to immediately pull Virginia out of RGGI and dismantle its related regulatory program. This item would even put the Governor in charge of any remaining revenues generated from Virginia’s participation in RGGI. Don’t let Gov. Youngkin misuse the budget process to gut RGGI. Click Link to Take Action

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

1)     Support 3 Campaign Finance Bills Moving to the House: Ask Delegates to vote for the following three (3) campaign finance/disclosure bills carried over to the House of Delegates: SB 222, Senator Jeremy McPike, SB318, Senator Barbara Favola, SB 463 Senator John Bell.  Click here to take easy action.
2)     Support 4 Campaign Finance Bills Moving to the Senate:   Ask Senators to vote for the following four (4) campaign finance/disclosure bills which have moved from the House. Disclosure:  HB86,  Delegate Tim Anderson; HB125, Delegate Glenn Davis; Oversight, HB492 Delegate David Bulova; Extending Mandate of the Joint Sub-Committee, HJ53 Delegate David Bulova.Click here to take easy action.  Questions: email nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com.

EDUCATION

Ask Senators to not ruin a kid’s life over minor infractions Vote NO on HB4  We oppose this bill because it requires school principals to report to law enforcement misdemeanors committed by students instead of only felonies, as under the current law. We believe the school administration and parents should handle misbehavior by students. Also, existing law allows schools to discipline students who commit misdemeanors if all parties are willing. HB4 would only let this mediation happen under one condition—if the infraction is assault and battery without injury. If it passes, HB4 would send many students who are misbehaving due to immaturity into the courts. Many of these children have learning disabilities or histories of poverty, abuse or neglect, and would benefit from additional educational and counseling services instead of being isolated, punished, pushed out, and saddled with a record. This bill would escalate the school to prison pipeline, a disturbing national trend where children are funneled out of public schools and into the juvenile and criminal justice systems.

Ask our Senators to protect Governor School admissions reforms by voting NO on HB127 This bill has been referred to the Senate Education and Health committee. It directly challenges reforms made to a Governor’s school admissions policy and has implications for all schools in Virginia. If this bill passes, selection criteria for admissions that improved equity at one school would revert back to “traditional academic success factors” known to be biased against low-income families, and all Governor’s schools would be impacted. It is fiction that increasing access for underprivileged groups is discrimination against more advantaged students. Standardized tests are not ‘objective’ measures of merit and students’ talents and abilities are not fixed. This bill would serve to reinforce inequities, rather than work to eliminate them.

Ask our Senators to help Virginia attract and retain teachers by voting NO on HB9 This bill has been referred to the Senate Education and Health Committee. It would make recruiting and retaining teachers even harder by increasing the probationary term for every teacher before they could get a continuing contract and imparts additional restrictions on school boards from hiring teachers. It would make the dismissal of a teacher easier and would reduce a teacher’s rights during dismissal hearings by eliminating the three-member fact-finding panel.

Week of Feb 13th

EVENTS

Wednesday, February 16th, 6:45 – 8:00 
WofA Membership Meeting
Join WofA & Friends for our 2022 Kickoff Meeting! Hear from Attorney Sam Shirazi on the latest Redistricting News and how it may affect you and our upcoming elections. We’ll also hear from various WofAs on how the current legislative situation is in the current General Assembly’s session and much more. Feel free to bring a friend! 
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81380041281

Friday February 18th 12:00pm
READ THE ROOM. SET THE NARRATIVE
Join Network NoVA for another fantastic Power Lunch: Register at  https://tinyurl.com/FPL-2022
Guests: Juli Briskman  Algonkian District Supervisor (Ode to Women Who Speak Their Mind) Qasim Rashid founder of Common Purpose PAC & Host of The Qasim Rashid Show on Sirius XM. Critical thinking expert Randy Pherson (President, Pherson Associates) will talk to us about how to analyze the situation & set the narrative. Randy believes that Dems can win big in 2022 by looking at the indicators & drivers that will get Dems energized. AND the awesome Deborah Woolen Founder & Editor in Chief at What She Said Magazine. https://deborahawoolen.com/what-she-said-magazine

Monday, Feb 28th 7:00pm – 8:00pm
NAACP Arlington Branch – Monthly Membership Meeting
Register Here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYlde2opzwtE9MHeeCgnL3Y8dZChZHzC-ey?fbclid=IwAR22qlXIIJ3G8EDbCEpDnGrXZxI9dfDu5C2QgoO2V-8S2lvrw9lYGyPkrV4. Check out the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/332974711925394/?ref=newsfeed

Wednesday, March 9th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm – Save the Date!
Learn to Communicate in Ways that Win
Join us for this event with Anat Shenker-Osorio, host of the “Words to Win By” podcast and Principal of ASO Communications. 

Monday, March 14th – Save the Date!
WofA Membership Meeting

CALLS TO ACTION

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

URGENT ACTION ALERT ON CAMPAIGN FINANCE BILL [“VOTE YES” on SB463 ] 
73% of Virginia voters don’t believe that candidates running for political office in Virginia should be able to use their campaign donations for personal use, such as taking vacations or paying their mortgage. We are one of only 2 states which has no rules on this.  Call your Senator and ask them to “VOTE YES” on Senator Bell’s bill SB463 which calls for these restrictions.  The vote will likely happen on Tuesday. Click here for the contact information on your Senator. Questions: Email nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com.
One click to write your representatives: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=463
Action Network link to write your own Senator: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/ask-your-senator-to-vote-to-put-restrictions-on-personal-use-of-campaign-donations-support-sb463

CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM

Ask Senate Members to Support Second Look SB378
We expect this legislation to be heard Monday in the Senate, so act right away. Second Look legislation would allow judges to review lengthy prison sentences, years after they have been imposed, to determine if that severity of punishment is still necessary and appropriate. People change, our laws should reflect that. If you are a constituent of Sen. Howell, Sen. Saslaw, or Sen. Lewis, please make note of that in your email to those lawmakers. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-alt.php?cta=cta-035a
Questions: Contact info@justiceforwardva.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Stand-Up for the 4th Amendment and Against Race-Based Policing  – OPPOSE HB79/HB1030
We expect this bill to be heard in the Senate Judiciary, so please take action right away. ACTION: Please email Senate Judiciary members asking them to OPPOSE HB79. You can find your Senator’s email here: https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov
Sample language for the email:
Subject line: OPPOSE HB 79 Stand-Up for the 4th Amendment and Against Race-Based Policing
Dear Senator,
I urge you to oppose HB79. On March 1, 2021 legislation went into effect limiting pretextual policing. Data already shows racial disparities in traffic stops are decreasing. The historic bill was celebrated by justice reformers and constitutional conservatives alike, and has become a model for similar legislation throughout the United States. Protect the progress we’ve made!
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Questions: Contact info@justiceforwardva.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

CLEAN ENERGY, CLIMATE, ENVIRONMENT

Solar Ready Roofs – Only Affirmative Bill Still “Alive” of the Coalition’s Priority Climate Bills [Vote YES SB290]
Senator Favola’s Solar Ready Roofs bill moves to the Senate Floor on Monday or Tuesday.  This bill would require that new government buildings and major renovations of those buildings be built “Solar-Ready” – with roofs designed to accommodate solar panels. These panels will save money for taxpayers by reducing energy costs over time and also support Virginia’s goals towards reducing carbon emissions.  Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=290.  This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.  Questions? Contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com 

Oppose HB558 – Biogas Hog Farm Pollution Giveaway.  Vote NO HB894
HB558 is a particularly nefarious bill that allows gas companies to develop pipelines to collect methane gas generated at concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). While the Coalition agrees that methane should be recovered from landfills and wastewater treatment facilities, we oppose monetizing methane produced at CAFOs. The outrageous polluting practices by CAFOs which result in leakage of animal effluent from massive sludge ponds into groundwater and rivers, in addition to generating air pollution should not be promoted. By failing to exclude CAFOs from the definition of acceptable biogas, this bill actually incentivizes the expansion of production of methane at CAFOs.  Worse, the bill requires no demonstrable reduction of methane emissions. HB558 is a ratepayer’s nightmare. It not only provides for full cost recovery and allowable profit on every conceivable aspect of a specific project, it allows the gas companies to charge an additional 100 basis points to the cost of equity. In short, the gas industry is hijacking “emissions reductions” to justify tens of millions in increased ratepayer costs without any demonstration that methane emissions are reduced due to the investment. Click here to take action:  https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=HB&no=558. This is a Coalition priority bill.  Questions?  Contact Sharon Shutler at Shutlersharon@gmail.com.

Ask Senators to Keep RGGI Out of the Budget
Gov. Youngkin is trying to use the budget process to pull Virginia out of RGGI and give himself full power to use the funds already generated by RGGI, diverting them from their legislated uses to promote low-income energy efficiency and flood preparedness programs. We need Senate budget lawmakers to stop this attempt, likely happening this week. Click here to take action https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-alt.php?cta=cta-041. Questions: Contact Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com. This is related to Virginia Grassroots Coalition priority bills defending RGGI.

EDUCATION

Ask our Senators to improve our Public Schools [Vote YES on SB490]
This bill is based on the 2021 estimate of the condition and needs for Public School needs in Virginia. It will help to establish principal and teacher mentor programs.  Also, it will improve education in schools with high concentrations of poverty by making these changes: improving student to teacher ratios, providing flexibility in compensation adjustment to teachers, equitable distribution of experienced and effective personnel, supporting at-risk students, hiring of specialist teachers, counselors, and support positions. This is how we need to spend any budget “surplus”. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=490&year=2022. Questions: Contact Marianne Burke, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com  This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Ask our Senators to Leave authority over misdemeanors with parents and schools [Vote NO on SB36] This bill would send many students who are misbehaving due to immaturity into the courts. Many of these children have learning disabilities or histories of poverty, abuse or neglect, and would benefit from additional educational and counseling services instead of being isolated, punished, pushed out, and saddled with a record. Instead, these bills  ]would escalate the school to prison pipeline, a disturbing national trend where children are funneled out of public schools and into the juvenile and criminal justice systems.  Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=36&year=2022. Questions: Contact Marianne Burke, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com  This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.’’

Ask our Delegates to Fully Fund our Public Schools [Vote YES  on HB1135]
This bill is based on the 2021 estimate of the condition and needs for Public School needs in Virginia. It will help to establish principal and teacher mentor programs. Also, it will improve education in schools with high concentrations of poverty by making these changes: improving student to teacher ratios, providing flexibility in compensation adjustment to teachers, equitable distribution of experienced and effective personnel, supporting at-risk students, hiring of specialist teachers, counselors, and support positions. This is how we need to spend any budget “surplus”. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=HB&no=1135&year=2022. Questions: Contact Marianne Burke, Marianne.VAGrassrootsCoalition@gmail.com  This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.’’

AFTER CROSSOVER – STARTING WED., FEB 16th

Ask the House P&E Committee to Support Reforming the Recall Process in Virginia – Vote YES on SB495
This bill creates a more transparent and efficient recall process for elected officials in Virginia, returning the power to remove elected officials to voters. The changes recommended are in line with the recall processes in many states, and are a common sense set of reforms to codify a recall process that is both clearly defined and attainable, but not liable to being used frivolously. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=495 Questions: Contact Luisa Boyarski, luisaboyarski@gmail.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Ask members of the House P&E Committee to Support campaign finance bills
Click here for emails and sample messages. Ask them to vote for the following campaign finance/disclosure bills which will be carried over to the House of Delegates next week: SB 222, Senator Jeremy McPike, SB318, Senator Barbara Favola. Remind them that nearly 80% of Virginians want campaign finance reform and 88 percent want complete disclosure. Questions: email nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com.

Ask the House committee to STOP the Air & Water Pollution bill SB657
The Air and Water Pollution bill SB 657 has passed out of the Senate based on lies by the MVP, the Chamber of Commerce and the Farm Bureau. Time is limited for us to be able to counter their lies before the bill is voted on in the House Ag committee before headed to the full House. There’s hope because the House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resource committee is 12-11 so we only need to flip one R to win. So far the House hasn’t heard from us yet so let them HEAR US ROAR!
CTA 1: Use this easy One Click action to contact the members of the House committee to OPPOSE SB 675. Please encourage others to join you by sharing this social media post.
CTA 2: Sign this petition to the Farm Bureau and ask others to join you by sharing this social media post. 
Questions, email Freeda Cathcart at contactfreeda@gmail.com

Week of Feb 6th

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tuesday, February 8th, 12:00pm
Zoom meeting with Senator Warner’s Staff
Register for the Zoom link: https://novagrassroots.org/event-warner-lobby.php

Tuesday, February 8th, 6:00pm
MoneyOut – Campaign Finance Reform Meeting
Join us to review the status of bills and plan for lobby day on Feb. 16th.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86093163540pwd=Yi9tUS9reUZwM2Fpem4vUVVVMnV6UT09

Wednesday, February 9th, 8:30am – 9:30am
Weekly League of Women Voters’ Legislative Roundtables In Person w/ Virtual Option
Upcoming topics are:
Feb 9 – Child Protection
Feb 16 – Money in Politics – Reform
Feb 23 – Dark Money – Honest Ads
Mar 2 – Floods – full disclosure of flood zones
Mar 9 – Final Legislative Push
RSVP here

Friday, February 11th, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Saturday February 12th
Arlington Dems – Virtual Communications Open House
Join the Arlington Democrats next Saturday to learn more about how YOU can help  shape, share, and analyze the Democratic message in Arlington County. We’re hosting a virtual Communications Volunteer Open House!
Saturday, February 12 – 2:30 p.m. Register: bit.ly/arldemscommsopen
Who? Anyone who wants to learn from and potentially join our team — from experienced hands to those starting in political communications. We especially welcome diverse voices who are committed to further informing our message and electing Democrats. Questions? Email communications@arlingtondemocrats.org

Monday, Feb 28th 7:00pm – 8:00pm
NAACP Arlington Branch – Monthly Membership Meeting
Register Here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYlde2opzwtE9MHeeCgnL3Y8dZChZHzC-ey?fbclid=IwAR22qlXIIJ3G8EDbCEpDnGrXZxI9dfDu5C2QgoO2V-8S2lvrw9lYGyPkrV4
https://www.facebook.com/events/332974711925394/?ref=newsfeed

Wednesday, March 9th, 7:00pm – 8:00pm 
Learn to Communicate in Ways that Win
Join us for this event with Anat Shenker-Osorio, host of the “Words to Win By” podcast and Principal of ASO Communications.  Save the Date.

CALLS TO ACTION

Take Action to Win Fair Pay, Overtime and Quality Home Care!
Home Care workers are on the front lines of the pandemic, working to keep older adults and people with disabilities healthy and safe. We deserve a real living wage and to be paid for the overtime hours we work, and all Virginians deserve quality care. Take action right now! Politicians in Richmond are currently debating our pay and benefits. Whether you’re a home care worker, consumer, family member or ally, please fill out this form ASAP to call on your elected officials to invest in pay raises, overtime, and ending the waiting list for home care! Click here to take action: https://secure.everyaction.com/jbi7hWV4z0eVvg762u2Aag2  This CTA is from Virginia 512 SEIU

Ask Senate Members to Support Second Look – Vote YES on SB378
ACTION: We expect this legislation to be heard this week in the Senate, so act right away. Please email your Senator asking them to vote for SB378. Find your Senator’s email here: https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/.
Here is sample language for the email.
Dear Senator,
As your constituent, I urge you to support SB378 that would allow judges to review lengthy prison sentences, years after they have been imposed, to determine if that severity of punishment is still necessary and appropriate. People change, our laws should reflect that.
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Questions: Contact info@justiceforwardva.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Stand-Up for the 4th Amendment and Against Race-Based Policing  – OPPOSE HB79/HB1030
ACTION: We expect this bill to be heard in the House this week, so please take action right away. Please email House members asking them to OPPOSE HB79/HB1030.  You can find your Delegate’s email here: https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/. Here is sample language for the email.
Subject line: OPPOSE HB 79/1030, Stand-Up for the 4th Amendment and Against Race-Based Policing
Dear Delegate,
I urge you to oppose HB79/HB1030. On March 1, 2021 legislation went into effect limiting pretextual policing. Data already shows racial disparities in traffic stops are decreasing. The historic bill was celebrated by justice reformers and constitutional conservatives alike, and has become a model for similar legislation throughout the United States. Protect the progress we’ve made!
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Questions: Contact info@justiceforwardva.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Protect the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) – Vote NO SB532
This bill would withdraw VA from RGGI and repeal the Clean Energy and Community Preparedness Act.  RGGI requires that the utilities pay to emit carbon and further that these amounts must decrease over time.  Monies from the sale of carbon go to Virginia and since its inception in 2021, RGGI has yielded over $200 million back to the state.  It is the only source of state funds for coastal and inland flood preparedness, critically needed to address the most costly and common natural disaster in Virginia. Moreover, RGGI-funded weatherization is projected to save Virginia families 25 to 30 percent on electricity bills each year. Funding is vital to efforts to mitigate carbon pollution and protect Virginians from the effects of climate change. Click here to take action:  https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=532,&year=2022
Questions? Contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com or Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition. 

Protect Clean Car Standards – Vote NO SB695
SB695 which would repeal Clean Car legislation which was enacted in 2021 to provide both cleaner gas-powered vehicles, a greater variety of EVs to Virginia and also: (1) Combat Climate Change. Transportation is the largest source of carbon pollution in Virginia. This legislation is expected to reduce emissions by 48 million metric tons by 2040. (2) Improve Public Health. Transition to EVs, by 2050, could result in $1.3 billion in avoided annual health costs in Virginia associated with poor air quality. (3) Provide Greater Consumer Choice. Car manufacturers prioritize sending EVs to other Clean Car states. In Virginia, demand for EVs exceeds availability: 1/3 of registered EVs were bought out of state. (4) Save Consumers Money. The sticker prices of EVs are expected to reach parity with gas cars in the next few years and save drivers between $6,000 and $10,000 over a vehicle’s lifetime due to reduced fuel and maintenance cost. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=695
Questions? Contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com or Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition. 

Support Pay Parity for Public Defenders  –  Vote YES on SB282
ACTION: Please email your Senator asking them to vote for SB282. We expect this legislation to be heard this week in the Senate, so act right away. You can find your Senator’s email here: https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/. Here is sample language for the email.
Subject line: Support Pay Parity for Public Defenders  –  Vote YES on SB282
Dear Senator,
Public defenders represent the large majority of defendants in criminal cases– roughly 80% of criminal defendants nationwide are represented by court-appointed counsel. Yet, public defenders typically earn considerably less than prosecutors in the same jurisdictions, despite larger workloads and fewer resources–a big reason why many poor defendants are at such a disadvantage. Fund public defense by supporting SB282.
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Questions: Contact info@justiceforwardva.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Substance Use Is A Public Health Problem, Not A Crime  –  Vote YES on SB411
ACTION: Please email your Senator asking them to vote for SB411. We expect this bill to be heard in the Senate this week, so please act right away.  You can find your Senator’s email here: https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/. Here is sample language for the email.
Subject line: Support SB411 Substance Use Is A Public Health Problem, Not A Crime  
Dear Senator,
Substance use is a public health problem and should be treated as such. We’ve known that for decades but keep saddling people with felony convictions for possession. De-felonization of drug possession will result in massive cost savings which will permit the Commonwealth to invest in a more robust and effective behavioral health infrastructure. Please Vote YES on SB411.
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Questions: Contact info@justiceforwardva.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Action Items for Campaign Finance Reform
1) Sign our petition supporting campaign finance reform. This will be delivered to the Governor, heads of the Chambers, and Committee Chairs. Currently only 200 people have signed. We need more people to care and raise your voice. 2) Are you a group? Add your name to our sign-on letter supporting campaign finance reform which will be delivered to the Governor’s office during our lobby day, February 16th.  Questions and interest in joining our lobby day, contact with nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com

Week of Jan 29th

Many thanks to WofA Ann Delorey, who ensured that our weekly What’s Up WofA was distributed in a timely and accurate manner. Due to work obligations, Ann must step down as Editor and we all will miss her valuable contributions to We of Action.  Ann’s seemingly limitless patience was a wonder to witness – even with our contributors numerous last minute changes and updates! Please make sure to thank Ann, if you happen to run into her!   

EVENTS

Sunday, January 30th, 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Virtual Meet & Greet w/ Adele McClure, candidate for new HD2
Meet Adele McClure who will be running in the new House of Delegates’ District 2 which includes a large portion of Arlington. Currently, Adele is the Executive Director for the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus. Prior to that, she was the policy director for Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax until she resigned in protest after sexual assault allegations. Join Luisa Boyarski, Stair Calhoun and Sharon Shutler for a meet and greet with Adele! RSVP here

Friday, February 5th, 9:00am – 11:00am
What the Heck is VA Democratic Party Reorganization Anyways? A View from the Grassroots UP!
Workshop to Learn about the Structure of the VA Democratic Party; the Upcoming Reorganization; How to Get More Involved to Bolster the Party. Register Here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEufuGgrDkiGNT5rSEG1Wy2BJO5aKF8SksK?fbclid=IwAR08O1OWoQYm6bwZFPIhEIBgMeaM04uAoFE5kd_SAdQ_nYnEe1GGhq3oybs

Wednesday, February 16th, 6:45 – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting (Virtual)
Save the Date! Details to follow! Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81380041281

CALLS TO ACTION

Below are the Calls To Action for bills that will be considered in committee meetings on Monday and Tuesday.  Please take action this weekend – we have less than two weeks until crossover and need to make sure our priority bills are passed! Please check out the Virginia Grassroots Coalition’s Legislative Priorities Page where you will find additional Calls to Action – it is a fantastic tool! https://www.virginiagrassroots.org 

Ghost Guns-One Click Call to Action CTA-Urgent [Vote YES on SB 310]
The Senate Judiciary Committee will be considering Sen. Adam Ebbin’s SB 310 (Monday January 31st) – that would penalize any person(s) involved in the manufacture, import, sale, transfer, or possession of plastic firearms and unfinished frames or receivers and unserialized firearms. This is a #CommonSense bill and should be supported! Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=310&year=2022
This Call to Action is from the Virginia Grassroots Coalition Gun Violence Prevention Working Group. Questions: Contact GVP Working Lead, Kathleen Murray, kamwjm@gmail.com  This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Ask our Senators to Reform the Recall Process in Virginia – [Vote YES on SB495]
We expect this bill to be considered in the Senate P&E committee on Tuesday, 2/1, so please take action TODAY! This bill creates a more transparent and efficient recall process for elected officials in Virginia, returning the power to remove elected officials to voters. The changes recommended are in line with the recall processes in many states, and are a common sense set of reforms to codify a recall process that is both clearly defined and attainable, but not liable to being used frivolously. Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=495&year=2022. Questions: Contact Luisa Boyarski, luisaboyarski@gmail.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Tell Dem Senators to oppose a bill that would prevent schools from requiring masks to stop the spread of COVID-19  – One Click Call to Action [Vote NO on SB458]
SB 458 would essentially repeal VA legislation enacted last year requiring Virginia school districts to follow federal health guidelines to the ‘maximum extent practicable.’ The CDC recommends masking inside K-12 schools for everyone over age 2, regardless of vaccination status. By preventing schools from requiring masks, SB-458 would cut off the Commonwealth’s ability to follow a science based process for making decisions about Covid-19. Click here to take action: 
https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=458&year=2022
This Call to Action is from the Virginia Grassroots Coalition. Questions: email April Breslaw, april.breslaw@gmail.com

Contact members of the House Appropriations Committee and ask them to vote for two good campaign finance bills which have passed through the House P&E committee.  One is sponsored by Delegate Tim Anderson ( HB86 ) which calls for the Dept of Elections to set up a publicly accessible and searchable campaign finance database and the other,  HB 492  , sponsored by Delegate Bulova strengthens the capacity of the Board of Elections to provide campaign finance oversight. Both are considered best practice by the Campaign Legal Center.  Click here for emails of members of the House Appropriations Committee and key messages that you can cut and paste into an email. Questions: email Nancy Morgan, nancyruthmorgan@gmail.com

Oppose Evisceration of our Citizen Pollution Control Boards – Stop Youngkin from Granting Permits to Major Polluters.  One-Click CTA [Vote No on SB657]
SB657 and SB81 would either remove the Boards’ authority to consider health, safety, or suitability of an activity to an area when issuing a permit to a power plant or other facility to emit air toxic air pollution or to erode and pollute our waterways.  In the case of SB657, the bill would repeal the Boards’ permitting authorities altogether and transfer them to the Department of Environmental Quality where Youngkin’s appointees would have control.  This move would also exclude citizen involvement. Keep permit issuance and enforcement along with citizen involvement with the Citizen Boards by urging Senators to vote no.  Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-alt.php?cta=cta-025. Questions?  Contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com or Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com

Stop Dominion Overcharges.  Support HB1288 Ratepayer Protection Act. One-Click CTA [Vote Yes on HB1288]
This bill would restore critical authority to the State Corporation Commission (SCC) to ensure that energy bills to ratepayers are just and reasonable.  Lowering bills is a kitchen table issue and clean energy issue. Virginians pay the 8th highest energy bills in the country. Republican well-messaged attacks on RGGI and the Virginia Clean Economy Act claim to tie the high costs of electricity bills with clean energy mandates and use this to justify gutting or repealing those laws.  However, the 2021 Dominion rate case made clear that high bills are a result of the inability of the SCC to effectively regulate this monopoly. In the rate case SCC staff and the AG’s office successfully demonstrated that Dominion Energy had overcharged ratepayers between $1 and $1.2 billion in excess profits over a 4-year period.  Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=HB&no=1288&year=2022. Questions, contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com. This is a priority bill of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Stop Campaign Contributions from Dominion.  Support SB45, SB568, AND HB71.  Vote Yes.
PLEASE NOTE – we have added the House Bill – HB71.  It requires a second 1-Click.
These bills would ban campaign contributions from regulated utilities like Dominion Energy.  For years, Dominion has heaped staggering piles of campaign cash upon candidates of both parties and is rewarded with laws that help this monopoly overcharge Virginians by over $1 billion. These overcharges were unequivocally established by the Attorney General and SCC staff in Dominion’s 2021 rate case. As a result, Virginians pay the 8^th highest electricity bills in the country.  Dominion abuses our lax rules to exploit our political system, drowning out the voices of Virginia families and small businesses. For SB45 and 568, Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=SB&no=45&year=2022. For HB71, Click here to take action: https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=HB&no=71. Questions, contact Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com. These are priority bills of the Virginia Grassroots Coalition.

Thank the VA Senate Judiciary Committee for Protecting #CommonSense Gun Legislation
Through party line votes, the VA Senate Judiciary Committee refused to pass a series of bills  that would have overturned much of the gun control legislation enacted over the last two years – and made gun violence worse. Among other things, the bills would have removed local authority to ban guns in public places, created huge loopholes in the gun permitting process, scrapped the one-gun-purchase-a-month rule, and abandoned the criminal  background check  requirement for private gun sales, e.g., at gun shows.  Use the email addresses below to send them a note (one group email is fine) thanking them for protecting  common sense violence protection laws by blocking SB 61, 74, 330, 364, 618, 644, and 763. 
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov
distr…@senate.virginia.gov

Join VGC Gun Violence Prevention Issue Group
If you are interested in indepth information on Virginia Gun Legislation or would like to be more active in Gun Violence Prevention, please add your name to the Virginia Grassroots’ Gun Violence Prevention working group here: VGC Gun Violence Prevention Group or contact Kathleen Murray at: kamwjm@gmail.com

OTHER

Redistricting Update: Have My Representatives Changed?
VPAP makes redistricting easier to understand and how you can get involved. See if your elected representatives will change, how the political lean of your district will shift, and let you evaluate how maps meet the legal criteria. https://www.vpap.org/redistricting/

Arlington Blue Families – Reclaim Our Vote Texas Primaries – 2022 Postcard Portal
Join Arlington Blue Families in sending postcards to Black registered voters in Texas, urging them to vote in the upcoming March 1 primary. Only 1 in 25 Texas voters participate in primaries, yet their voices are crucial to choosing candidates that will address all this and more: threats to democracy, voting and vote counting, crumbling electrical grids with freezing and flooding, high rates of Covid, school policies. We will emphasize this and offer pointers to Early Voting information.
Sign Up Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/11DUUPQtPxllYTiHYcyuuWctf5Uuxn91YvLBDKjC1Wag/viewform?ts=61de44ca&fbclid=IwAR2HeKLrRP6cxDMzJa6Db97s2uHreBZp4Ax1yJ4bafPAzOmfYgJ0TPBqF1A&edit_requested=true

Power Mapping:
Help the Virginia Grassroots Coalition by filling out the google form – tracking groups and individuals by their delegates, senators and congressional reps for advocacy purposes. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMY1OKe2gEG1QaRIMTZvGBsFxIx0_zLhA1Imj6d2Zc9NzwGw/viewform

Week of Jan 23rd

EVENTS

Sunday, January 30th, 5:00 – 6:00pm
Virtual Meet & Greet with Adele McClure, Candidate for the new HD2
We’re excited to introduce you to Adele McClure who will be running in the new House of Delegates’ District 2 which includes a large portion of Arlington. While Adele looks young, her resume would have you believe she’s easily 100 years old. Clearly Forbes was impressed and included her on its “30 under 30” list for 2019. Currently, Adele is the Executive Director for the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus. Prior to that, she was the policy director for Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax until she resigned in protest after sexual assault allegations. Join Luisa Boyarski, Stair Calhoun and Sharon Shutler for a meet and greet with Adele! RSVP here

Wednesday, February 16th, 6:45 – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting (Virtual)
Save the Date! Details to follow! Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81380041281

CALLS TO ACTION

Ask Dem. Senators to Protect Transgender Students – ASAP
Please use this very easy one-click method to ask the Democratic members of the Virginia Senate Education and Health Committee to preserve the protectIons for transgender kids we secured in 2020. Right now there is a bill in the Senate that would undo that progress we made.  And please, if your Senator is on that committee,  (Lucas, Saslaw, Howell, Locke, Barker, Petersen, Lewis, Edwards, Hashmi) send the email to your senator SEPARATELY with your address and notification that you are his or her constituent.Please share this link and directions with your groups and like-minded friends with these directions.  
One Click Call to Action
Questions: contact Marianne Burke, fairfaxindivisible@gmail.com

Reform the recall process [Vote YES on SB495]
This bill creates a more transparent and efficient recall process for elected officials in Virginia. As it currently exists, the system leaves both the public and petitioners lacking a clearly defined process to check the powers of elected officials. You can learn more about the recommended reforms here. Click HERE to take action! Questions: email Amy Bergner, abbergner@gmail.com

Stop Dominion Overcharges.  Support HB1288 Ratepayer Protection Act – Patrons Delegates Hudson and Ware
This bill would restore critical authority to the State Corporation Commission (SCC) to ensure that energy bills to ratepayers are just and reasonable.  Lowering bills is a kitchen table issue and clean energy issue. Virginians pay the 8th highest energy bills in the country. Republican well-messaged attacks on RGGI and the Virginia Clean Economy Act claim to tie the high costs of electricity bills with clean energy mandates and use this to justify gutting or repealing those laws.  However, the 2021 Dominion rate case made clear that high bills are a result of the inability of the SCC to effectively regulate this monopoly. In the rate case SCC staff and the AG’s office successfully demonstrated that Dominion Energy had overcharged ratepayers between $1 and $1.2 billion in excess profits over a 4-year period.  For more information contact Sharon Shutler Shutlersharon@gmail.com or Amy Bergner abbergner@gmail.com
HB1288 Ratepayer Protection Act CTA 
https://www.virginiagrassroots.org/action-legislation-2022.php?prefix=HB&no=1288&year=2022
Restore the right to vote [Vote YES on SJ1]
The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy, yet it’s not guaranteed for all Virginians. Virginia is one of three (3) states with lifetime felony disenfranchisement…People who have served their sentences and paid taxes deserve a chance to choose the people who represent them. It’s time for a change and it’s time for a second chance.
Click HERE to take action! Questions: email Stephen Spitz, stephenlspitz@icloud.com

Stop toxic coal waste [Vote NO on SB120]
The Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA) set Virginia on a path to 100% zero-carbon electricity by 2050. It uses a Renewable Portfolio Standard which requires investor-owned utilities like Dominion Energy to obtain increasing amounts of electricity from renewable energy resources. SB120 declares waste coal—coal leftover from previous mining operations—to be a renewable resource. No form of coal is either clean or renewable, and waste coal left in what are known as “GOB” piles is an especially toxic, dirty product. Click HERE to take action! Questions: email Sharon Shutler, shutlersharon@gmail.com

Stop Republicans from Pulling VA out of Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative [Vote NO on SB532]
RGGI, which forces electric utilities to pay for carbon emissions with proceeds flowing back to Virginia, brings economic, health and energy efficiency benefits to participating states. Since its inception in 2021, RGGI has yielded over $200 million to Virginia. RGGI is the only source of state funds for coastal and inland flood preparedness, critically needed to address the most costly and common natural disaster in Virginia.  Moreover, RGGI-funded weatherization is projected to save Virginia families 25 to 30 percent on electricity bills each year. Funding is vital to efforts to mitigate carbon pollution and protect Virginians from the effects of climate change.  Unconscionable Republicans want to repeal RGGI.
Click HERE to take action! Questions?  Contact Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com

Tell Dem Senators to oppose bill that would worsen the COVID-19 pandemic [Vote NO on SB601]
Virginia has historically followed the guidance of federal health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and respected professional medical associations, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) as it has considered vaccination requirements. SB601 would cut off the Commonwealth’s ability to follow this well established, science based process for making vaccination decisions about Covid-19. SB601 would also restrict the ability of the Commonwealth, private employers, health care providers and others from implementing protective measures to protect public health.
Click HERE to take action!  Questions: email April Breslaw, april.breslaw@gmail.com

Reject the Nomination of Wheeler as DNR Secretary – Please let all VA Senate Dems know we are depending on them (expecting them) to reject Governor-Elect Youngkin’s choice of Andrew Wheeler, former EPA Administrator under Trump, to head the Virginia Department of Natural Resources.  We need EVERY vote!If confirmed, Wheeler, a former coal lobbyist, would be an unmitigated disaster  for environmental regulations and permit decisions.  He will do his best to undermine the Virginia Clean Economy Act, the Regional Greenhouse Initiative, Clean Car Standards.  
1.  “One Click Call to Action”.  Click on the call to action.  If you have any issues, please contact Denis Orsinger at denis4blueva@gmail.com.
2.  Please share this call to action (CTA) with family, friends and other organizations.  Please let Meredith Haines know which organizations you’ve shared this CTA with at mhainesva@gmail.com.

Join VGC Gun Violence Prevention Issue Group
If you are interested in n depth information on Virginia Gun Legislation or would like to be more active in Gun Violence Prevention, please add your name to the Virginia Grassroots’ Gun Violence Prevention working group here: VGC Gun Violence Prevention Group or contact Kathleen Murray at: kamwjm@gmail.com

Power Mapping:
Help the Virginia Grassroots Coalition by filling out the google form – tracking groups and individuals by their delegates, senators and congressional reps for advocacy purposes.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMY1OKe2gEG1QaRIMTZvGBsFxIx0_zLhA1Imj6d2Zc9NzwGw/viewform

Week of Jan 9

CALLS TO ACTION

URGENT!
Reject the Nomination of Wheeler as DNR Secretary
Please let all VA Senate Dems know we are depending on them (expecting them) to reject Governor-Elect Youngkin’s choice of Andrew Wheeler, former EPA Administrator under Trump, to head the Virginia Department of Natural Resources.  We need EVERY vote!

If confirmed, Wheeler, a former coal lobbyist, would be an unmitigated disaster  for environmental regulations and permit decisions.  He will do his best to undermine the Virginia Clean Economy Act, the Regional Greenhouse Initiative, Clean Car Standards.  

1.  “One Click Call to Action”.  Click on the call to action.  If you have any issues, please contact Denis Orsinger at denis4blueva@gmail.com.

2.  Please share this call to action (CTA) with family, friends and other organizations.  Please let Meredith Haines know which organizations you’ve shared this CTA with at mhainesva@gmail.com.

Help Laura Jane Cohen Stop the Madness! 
Fairfax County Dems (FCDC) are looking for volunteers to work on validating Petition for Recall signatures for Springfield District School Board Member Laura Jane Cohen – an outspoken ally of GVP; LGBTQ+; and Social Justice communities. Per Cohen, those gathering signatures are “part of a national right wing effort to overturn elections”. Let’s work to stop these ongoing attacks on our duly elected representatives throughout Virginia and the Nation!

Training will be provided Monday, Jan10th at 2pm on Zoom.The actual work of validating signatures can be done at home after picking up the packet. If anyone is interested in helping but was not able to make the training,please  reach out to Kelly Price at: kellyprice@gmail.com and a special session can be arranged. Background Here: https://patch.com/virginia/burke/recall-petition-submitted-springfield-school-board-rep

Now – January 17th
Volunteer MLK Day of Auction
Just as there are a variety of ways to be civically engaged, there are a variety of civic engagement projects for this year’s MLK Day of Service. Some are all virtual, some are a mixture of a virtual.
Learn more here: https://volunteer.leadercenter.org/2022-mlk-day-service?fbclid=IwAR1-3aEYDpOau06wwp4Yw7o7w9SAtIFViKtFilyvhNDlA9nbVd7DmmgUlIk

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday, January 14th, 12:00pm
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Monday, January 17th, 12:00pm – 1:30p
30th Annual Virginia Advocacy Day to Prevent Gun Violence
Please join the Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence and our community partners virtually on Monday, January 17. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we honor the memory and teachings of a great civil rights leader who was killed by gunfire as he spoke out for justice. We will honor the lives of all Virginians killed or injured by gun violence by taking action to reduce this epidemic in the Commonwealth. We will raise our voices for responsible gun laws and advocate for funding for programs in communities most impacted by gun violence.  Together, we can work to end Virginia’s gun violence epidemic.
RSVP HERE: https://secure.everyaction.com/Z35qXOwYFEuPrtPawQqk0g2
If you are interested in more in depth information or becoming more active in Gun Violence Prevention, please add your name to the Virginia Grassroots’ Gun Violence Prevention working group here: VGC Gun Violence Prevention Group or contact Kathleen Murray at: kamwjm@gmail.com

Monday, January 17th, 7:00pm
Clean Energy & Climate Working Group Meeting
Join the Virginia Grassroots Coalition’s Climate & Clean Energy Working Group for a General Assembly Session Kick Off Meeting.  We will highlight key bills for the upcoming session, changes in Committee structure, and how those changes will impact our climate and clean energy legislative priorities.  Stay tuned for a great speaker!  
RSVP to: Sharon Shutler at shutlersharon@gmail.com or Amy Bergner at abbergner@gmail.com

Friday, January 21st, 12:00pm 
Power Lunch
RSVP here

Monday, January 24th, 7:00 – 8:30pm
NAACP – Arlington Branch
Join guests speakers Arlington County Board Chair, Katie Cristol and School Board Chair, Barbara Kanninen
RSVP here:   https://mailchi.mp/arlingtonnaacp/jan2022meeting

Monday, February 14th, 6:45 – 8:00pm
WofA Membership Meeting
Save the Date! Details to follow!

Power Mapping:
Help the Virginia Grassroots Coalition by filling out the google form – tracking groups and individuals by their delegates, senators and congressional reps for advocacy purposes: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMY1OKe2gEG1QaRIMTZvGBsFxIx0_zLhA1Imj6d2Zc9NzwGw/viewform

REDISTRICTING

Here is information on the new redistricting maps.  Virginia House of Delegates: https://www.vpap.org/redistricting/plan/2021-house-vasupremecourt-statewide-2/. The new map pits some very good Dem incumbents against each other and there are seven new house districts in Northern VA, where no incumbent currently lives.

• Virginia State Senate: https://www.vpap.org/redistricting/plan/2021-senate-vasupremecourt-statewide-2/. The new map pits Dem incumbents against each other in two districts: SD35 – Dave Marsden and Dick Saslaw.  SD38 – Jennifer Boysko and Janet Howell. There are also two new senate districts where no incumbent currently lives.
• Congressional Districts: https://www.vpap.org/redistricting/plan/2021-uscong-vasupremecourt-statewide-2/. You have likely seen in the news that CD2 and CD7 have been drawn to be even more competitive, while CD10 is now comfortably democratic, based on VPAP and other analysis.

More info in Blue Virginia article.

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