RESIST!

Defending Democracy!

American democracy is under attack. What do we do? Stand up, fight back! Billionaires are pouring money into campaigns to keep the GOP in power ensuring tax cuts for the super-rich and the privatization of agencies and crucial benefits like healthcare and Social Security. These programs provide critical services and income allowing many people in the U.S. to survive. Our only hope for checks and balances against the recklessness of the executive branch appears to be the judiciary, since Congress has become little more than a rubber stamp. Civil liberties are eroding, and the Project 2025 handbook is being followed to a T. But we are NOT helpless and the situation is NOT hopeless!

So how Do We Protect Our Democracy?

In On Tyranny, historian Timothy Snyder warns against complacency, emphasizing that democracy is fragile and must be actively defended. There are no “larger forces” that are going to magically swoop in and protect it–we the people must ensure it continues. He urges us to resist authoritarianism in all its forms, starting with a refusal to “obey in advance.” For example, if someone of authority (e.g. ICE, the police, Verizon, the exterminator) comes to your door and asks to be let in, remember that they need a) your permission, or b) a search warrant. Many things the current president and administration are asking for are not actually legal–question everything; ask for warrants, legal paperwork, proof, etc. Do not simply give in. This is important to protect yourself, your family, your community, AND to Slow things down.

Hope and real change are born of action; here are a few practical ways to fight back:

• Be Loud: Speak out by painting a sign, wearing a t-shirt, attending a demonstration and calling your representatives (repeatedly). On the line are free speech on college campuses, immigrant rights, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental protections, research grants, civil servant jobs and the government agencies who employ them, Medicaid/Medicare, food aid and Social Security!


• Take These Actions: Write postcards, make calls and show up at protests sponsored by Indivisible, Rise and Resist, MoveOn, 50501 and other activist organizations. Host a sign-making party and attend the Tesla Takedown on March 29th (these events are happening nationwide) and the Hands Off 2025 action on April 5th.


• Align Your Money with Your Values: Boycott exploitative corporations and invest in local economies. Shop at farmers’ markets, and local small businesses. Pay cash when possible to keep more profit in the hands of the business owner. If you own stocks, divest your stock portfolio from companies that do harm and find a small local bank or credit union to use for your banking and as your credit card provider.


• Build Community: Human connection is our secret weapon against hopelessness and rising authoritarianism. Join a local book club or discussion group that meets in person. Gather your neighbors to discuss the current situation. Call a friend instead of texting. Walk to the bank and use a teller instead of relying solely on digital transactions. Learn the name of your local check-out person or clerk.


• Be Hopeful: Civil rights leader and Congressional Rep. John Lewis said it best: “Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Do not become bitter or hostile. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble. We will find a way to make a way out of no way.”


• Be Generous: If you can, provide financial support to groups fighting for democracy, such as Public Citizen, GLAD, Indivisible, MoveOn, and the ACLU.

Our democracy is in crisis, but we are not powerless. Patriotism and the flag have long been weaponized by the right–but in fact we are the patriots defending our constitution. Be bold, be loud and keep hope alive!

FROM OUR FRIENDS AND ALLIES

Fort Greene Park trees’ day in court

Thursday, March 27 • 2:00 PM (meet at 1:30 PM in front to get a felt leaf)
Manhattan Civil Courthouse • 111 Centre Street, New York, Courtroom 1227

Friends of Fort Greene Park has spent years defending 58 treasured shade trees from destruction as part of a $24 million park redesign plan. A judge will hear their arguments this Thursday at 2:00 PM at Manhattan Civil Courthouse, 111 Centre Street, Courtroom 1227. Meet in front of 111 Centre Street at 1:30 to get a felt leaf to wear in the courtroom. To contribute to cover legal fees for this hearing, please visit this page.

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Activism Walking Tour: Shut Down the Greenpoint Gas Facility

Sunday, March 30 • 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Meet: McGolrick Park, Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Our friends at SANE Energy project have been working for years to shut down National Grid’s liquified natural gas (LNG) facility in Greenpoint. At 120 acres, it’s the largest fossil fuel facility in New York State. And this past August National Grid won approval for a $5B rate hike to expand their fracked gas infrastructure even more, which will raise our utility bills even higher. On Sunday, March 30, at 3:00 PM, join SANE for an engaging conversation and see the site for yourself. Meet in McGolrick Park–no need to register. Just come!

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Get involved in one of our workgroups!

350Brooklyn is volunteer-powered. At the heart of these efforts are our campaigns and committees. Follow the links below for more information on how to join.

Arts Ideas and Events organizes special events and field trips; identifies topics and arranges speakers for 350Brooklyn member meetings; and creates art, props and costumes for rallies and parades. We welcome your ideas and talents. Email us at [email protected].

Climate Check Stories and Solutions is 350Brooklyn’s podcast. Each monthly episode breaks down the climate crisis through conversations with local climate activists and community organizers. We discuss individual climate stories and pinpoint policies and local actions that can lead us to a healthier climate and a more just society—from fighting pipelines to working with nature and everything in-between. Email us at [email protected].

350BK Families is part of the Climate Families NYC coalition which aims to make climate activism accessible to parents and families. Our activities bring children, youth, and their adults together to fight for a livable future in age appropriate ways. Email us at [email protected].

Legislation focuses on passing significant climate legislation in Albany and in Washington. We develop relationships with local officials, research key issues, and participate in tactics like rallies and phone relays. email [email protected].

The Media Committee is 350Brooklyn's all-around in-house media team. We write copy, design graphics, run 350BK's social media channels and website, edit our biweekly community newsletter, and oversee creative initiatives like the new 350Brooklyn e-magazine Parts Per Million. Get in touch at [email protected].

People vs. Fossil Fuels/350BK is an action focused-group that works with the national PvFF coalition calling on President Biden to declare a climate emergency, stop approving fossil fuel leases and exports, and support the work of frontline communities across the country. Join us to have fun while we fight the black snake! Learn about the national coalition: peoplevsfossilfuels.org. Email: [email protected]

Plastic Free works to eliminate plastic pollution and reduce reliance on single-use plastic products. We meet monthly via Zoom, and work on a variety of projects including legislative lobbying efforts, campaigns promoting going plastic free, and neighborhood efforts to reduce waste. Email us at [email protected].

Renewable Brooklyn College is part of the citywide movement to decarbonize CUNY campuses. 350Brooklyn is working with faculty and staff to turn Brooklyn College into a renewable hub that can help relieve the area’s overstressed grid while serving as a local pilot project for making the transition from fossil fuels to renewables. Email [email protected] to get involved.

No time but able to donate? While we are an affiliate of 350.org, we are programmatically independent and our financial support comes solely from our members. Can you offer financial support, at any level? Donate here.