Dear John, Our Digital Director, Paris, was going to send this email today but her power is down, so I’m stepping in. We need to send letters to Biden right now. As if we need more evidence that climate can’t wait, millions of people like Paris right here in Texas are without heat and power after this devastating snowstorm. I’m one of the lucky few with power and water but my own family and friends can’t safely get to me—we don’t have snow shovels, snow plows, winter tires, or even the right kinds of winter coats or boots for weather this much outside the norm. At this point, millions of Texans have been without water and/or power for over 24 hours with no end in sight. Contrary to online snark, this isn’t about a group of people simply unused to snow. This is about the intensity of climate change growing with each passing day—storms are getting more intense and weather patterns are becoming more erratic. This is about local electeds choosing to skirt regulations by isolating the state to its own unreliable power grid instead of investing in infrastructure that will keep people safe. And it’s no surprise that the Black, brown, and working class people of Texas are the ones who are left to suffer when disaster strikes, like it has this week. We need your help to convince Biden that the rescue plan he’s delivered to Congress is only a first step. People need a longer-term recovery plan that delivers on climate, racial, and economic justice. Can you join me and use this tool to send a letter to Biden right now? There’s some sample language ready for you, but feel free to adjust it to fit what you’re feeling about this situation. In the next few weeks, we expect Biden and his administration to propose some kind of long-term recovery package to Congress—this is our once-in-a-generation chance to influence what’s in it. When we talk about a Green New Deal, this is what it’s all about: pushing each proposal closer and closer to the vision of millions of good, union jobs, addressing racial and economic injustice, and tackling the climate crisis. These overlapping crises aren’t going to stop without action. Only a bold recovery plan will meet the needs of everyone in this country. Your letter, along with the hundreds sent by others in the broader movement, can help convince Biden that bold action is the only acceptable next step. Click here to use this tool created from the Green New Deal Network to send your letter now. Not just for our friends and family here in Texas, but for all of us. Wishing you safety and warmth, Julien P.S. — There are many organizations on the ground local Texas hubs are working to support. These mutual aid groups are saving lives and need help. Click here for a handy list with links so you can give what you can, if you can. |