WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2020

Dear John,

If you are anxious, stressed, or uneasy about the election, you are not alone. But we should not let our stress get in the way of our belief that change is possible when we work in community and partnership. There is much we can do together today to insist that democracy is upheld and all votes are counted, but our work remains critical well beyond the election.

No matter who wins, it’s going to take all of us pulling together to create the changes we want to see in our country and in our world.

Here are some resources to help you take action and provide support to your community in these difficult times:

Making real the promises of democracy: [link removed] In the lead-up to the election, we called on candidates, government leaders and officials, and the people of this country to stand together to ensure we see fair elections and peaceful transfers of power. That remains our call as we face uncertainty in the days ahead.

How to intervene if someone is being harassed: [link removed] We all have a role to play in keeping everyone in our communities safe. Explore our guide to bystander intervention, featuring do’s and don’ts on what to do when someone is being harassed and resources to share online.

Tonight at 5:15 p.m. ET/2:15 p.m. PT: Silent reflection with a concern for the condition of the country: [link removed] Our partner, Friends Committee on National Legislation, invites all to join together to hold one another and our country in the Light the day after the election. Join on Zoom or by phone for this reflection in keeping with the Quaker practice of silent worship.

A guide to protesting: [link removed] Visit our protest resource page for tips on how to prepare, stay safe, and get your message across.

How to create a mutual aid network: [link removed] The multiple challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic downturn, and continuing white supremacist and state violence have been catalysts for communities to come together to help each other when the government can’t or won’t. Here are some tips to help you get started.

How policy and systems change happens: [link removed] Join Rick Wilson, AFSC’s West Virginia Economic Justice Program director, tomorrow (Thursday) at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on Facebook Live for a discussion about "the three streams,” a practical model that could inform your work for social change.

DIY: Make your own masks: [link removed] Face masks are now a part of our everyday lives, and it’s important that we continue to wear them in public settings, including protests. Here are some ideas to make some simple masks for yourself and your community.

Compassion in Action Matching Gift Challenge: [link removed] No matter who wins this election, we know the injustices in our society won’t be solved in a day, and we have a lot of work ahead. If it is within your means, please donate to AFSC's Compassion in Action Matching Gift Challenge by Nov. 19 to help us reach our goal! A generous donor is matching gifts up to $1 million.

Be well and take care

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