Dear John,
Most, but not all of this week’s news digest is about COVID-19.
However, I (Patrick) spent most of this week on the picket line with members of the Saint Paul Federation of Educators, and it was probably the best thing I could have done for my mental health. To see thousands of teachers, paraprofessionals, school nurses, social workers and many others courageously marching for their students and schools was incredible. The marches in the evenings were some of the biggest and most joyful that I’ve ever been a part of.
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But even more than that was seeing how the community – my community – responded. From my favorite little coffee shop down the street offering a discount to educators on strike to seeing friends and colleagues post on social media about bringing coffee or doughnuts to a school.
That’s what solidarity is. It’s showing up for each other in big ways and small.
And we’re going to need a lot more of that in the weeks to come.
At TakeAction Minnesota, we, like everyone else have been focused this week on adapting plans as we prepare for daily life as we know it to change in very real ways.
While we’re socially distancing ourselves in person, we are more committed than ever to leaning in as a political home online. Together, we will meet this moment with love, justice, and action. You’ll be hearing from us in the days and weeks to come. Text ACTION to 79606 to stay connected through our broadcast texting program.
For everyone reading this who’s on the front lines of COVID-19 or supporting people who are, we’re sending our gratitude and appreciation.
We will pull through together, or not at all.
Here’s what we’re reading, watching, and listening to this week:
State of Emergency
We’re grateful for swift action from state leaders, the Administration, and especially the Dept. of Health. ICYMI: national and state peacetime states of emergencies were declared.
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Strike
Educators in St. Paul were on strike for the first time since 1946 this week, fighting for their students. The strike was called off very early this morning. In an otherwise wild week, these bold, courageous educators rising up gave us life. Read more. And hear directly from striking educators.
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Solidarity
It doesn’t require big acts. It’s often just enough to remind us we’re together. Watch this beautifully haunting video of Italians singing from inside their homes and check out some examples from St. Paul this past week.
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Flatten the Curve
Social distancing saves lives. Read and share.
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Social Safety Net
It’s probably not surprising to you that America’s social safety net is in tatters after decades of right-wing attacks. But it was definitely easier to ignore for some of us before the arrival of a pandemic. We need sick time, and end to evictions, and a strong, universal health care system immediately. Read more.
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Wisdom
We’re reading this blog on resources for facing COVID-19 from adrienne maree brown and listening to this podcast on what to do when the world is on fire.
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After the Storm
I (Patrick) needed this essay. It’s not about Coronavirus at all; it’s about a tornado. Or rather it’s about what comes next. Read more.
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Cat Video: Covid-19 Edition
This made us laugh. Watch it here.
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Do nothing
When it’s time to take action, act. But also, sometimes…do nothing, literally. Learn why it matters.
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Underwater Photos
Beautiful, award winning photos from the ocean. See them here.
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That’s a wrap. Sending you love and strength and look forward to hearing from you, always.
Kenza Hadj-Moussa & Patrick Burke
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TakeAction Minnesota
705 Raymond Ave. #100
Saint Paul, MN 55114
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