Dear Friend,

The government shutdown is finally over. Like you, we’re frustrated by how it ended and concerned about the long-term consequences of a federal budget that hands out billions to the wealthy while everyday people struggle. But today, we want to pause on the bad news and celebrate the wins we made possible together: through organizing, calling, and protesting, we reminded everyone that the government should work for us, not against us.

And when Maryland families and federal workers were hurting, our state didn’t wait for Congress to get its act together.

🩵 We joined more than 90 organizations calling on Governor Moore to fund SNAP – and just three days later, he did. Maryland stepped up to make sure families have food on the table and funds on their SNAP cards. Thank you to everyone who donated to food pantries, called elected officials, and spoke up for Marylanders in need.

We also saw Maryland Democrats move quickly to support federal workers and others hit hardest by the shutdown, through emergency assistance, food access, and community support. In a moment of national dysfunction, our state proved that leadership means taking care of people first. 🌟 Let’s keep the momentum going.

Join us in thanking Governor Moore for acting swiftly, and our U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks for standing up for healthcare and the most vulnerable when it mattered most.

As we head toward the 2026 Maryland Legislative Session (how is January already around the corner?!), we must hold on to this energy and keep fighting for the progress Maryland deserves.

Here’s how to stay involved and keep our momentum going:

1. Educate Yourself and Know Your Rights

• Understand your rights, learn about the systems you’re challenging, and follow reliable sources. Share credible news updates, and resources with your community. Stay curious, stay informed, and never stop learning. Information is power.

2. Join or Support Grassroots Movements

• Get involved with local or national activist groups, nonprofits, or mutual aid networks. Whether you’re donating, organizing, volunteering, or just showing up, there’s a place for you.

3. Amplify Underrepresented Voices & Challenge Harmful Narratives

• Use your platforms (social media, classrooms, conversations, etc.) to center voices that often go unheard. Lift up Black, Brown, immigrant, queer, trans, disabled, and working-class perspectives. When possible, challenge disinformation, call out bigotry, and report dangerous content. Push for platforms and institutions to stop enabling hate.

4. Stay Alert to ICE Activity in Your Area

• If you're able, help protect undocumented neighbors. Call CASA’s raid tip hotline: 1-888-214-6016, or report sightings by clicking the button below.

5. Show Up & Speak Out

• Attend protests, rallies, and community events. Hold local, state, and national officials accountable. Demand action, oppose harmful legislation, and advocate for just policies. Register to vote if you haven’t already.

6. Practice Collective Care & Prevent Burnout

• Care for yourself, support your people, and build relationships that hold us through the long haul.
  
  

We need to be ready to keep the pressure on. Visit our Linktree below for quick ways to take action, get involved, and stay connected.

Thank you for showing up through the shutdown, and beyond. Let’s keep building a Maryland that works for everyone.

In Solidarity,
The Advance Maryland team