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Using social media to take positive action.
Once a week, we’ll post a call for #PhoneTax. Please comment with a number or image showing your calls, emails, letters, postcards, visits, or anything else you can think of, to your reps for the past week, or, if you’re not a US citizen, please post an image from your phone’s camera roll to share with the group for support, encouragement and inspiration. Like, share comment the post and other comments. Use the power of the tap to promote positive action.
Here’s more on the Phone Tax plan:
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So far this week I have made 4 calls to my Representative and Senators. I am beginning with the issues that are nearest and dearest to me. Will continue with more calls on other issues in the coming weeks. My personal goal is to make at least 5 calls a week.
I have also talked with some of my friends and relatives about making calls as well.
Like they say, “United we stand, divided we fall.”
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Thank you Libby!!! I knew we could all count on you. Sending you much love, and loads of strength for your calls
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Yes Libby! Thank you!!
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If this counts emails, four or five. I have slacked off for a couple days thanks to some local issues. We are fortunate in NM to have an entirely Democratic congressional delegation. I am still asking them to be more vocal and thanking them for “No” votes on Cabinet nominees.
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Emails absolutely count Jane! Sending thanks to you reps with more encouragement is wonderful. Thank you Jane!! I know you’ve always been vocal and supportive to the right causes. I hope the Petroglyph National Monument will not be harmed.
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I agree that emails count! And I also worry about the parks; I’ve read the latest news about the NPS too, Jane. Sending you all lots of love. I am cheering for you with every step you take to fight back.
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I’ve been studying the situation and my options, and am working on this. I’ve made one call this week, and plan to make more in the future and try to figure out where my voice can best be heard, in addition to my financial support. I am in a very red state, but I will try to make my voice heard as best as I can despite that, in as many ways as possible.
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Thank you so much Susan. I can completely understand how difficult it is to take action in more hostile environments. It requires quite a lot of thought. And bravery. It’s important for us to do what we can, when we can, however we can, but only if we can. Keeping safe, especially mentally and emotionally, is most important though. What’s really lovely to see is that everyone is trying their best to be positive, to contribute in their own way, and to be supportive of everyone else’s efforts. When we can see everyone around us struggling or being brave or fighting back, it inspires hope, encouragement and support. We really are stronger when we work together. And I’m so grateful that the togetherness includes all of you right here.
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I especially love seeing and feeling support and encouragement. At this moment, there’s very little that can be done to help the situation as a Canadian, but I hope our American friends can hear us cheering from across the border. I am cheering as loudly as I can. It’s energizing and comforting to see the efforts being made to fight back, and it does bring hope. I agree that not everyone can participate in fighting back in all the various ways that may take shape. Right now it’s calls, emails, and letters. And more and more it seems there are protests and marches. I think the addition of the boycott of American goods/services, not only by Canadians, but also by other supporters globally, will also be a very effective way to fight back. But if none of these strategies are possible, then I agree with Jane that safety is most important and it comes back to kindness. Rising up over fears and anxieties to provide emotional comfort with compassion, support, encouragement, humour, or any other positive, uplifting interaction is part of the effort to fight back. I feel that this is something we can all do for one another.
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I hear your cheers Katherine. Thank you for hanging in there with us in the States who did not choose this type of leadership. I so pray there will be some resolution soon so my Canadian friends don’t suffer because those in control of my country are greedy for power and money.
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Yes, I hope so too. It’s a worry if things continue.
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Susan I feel your anxiety about how to be heard. Even though I live in a blue state almost everyone I know is a republican. I still struggle to understand how they can all be so blind. Anyway, I think maybe your voice will be heard the loudest because it is the leaders of the red states that need to hear just what it is their people want – not what their party wants. Hang in there, keep the faith, and together we will get through this turmoil.
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Libby, I believe you are right that the strength of voices in red states is uniquely strong. I doubt Republican members of Congress will oppose this administration unless and until their constituents are making clear how damaging and unacceptable the administration’s actions are.
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Thanks, Libby. I’m trying my best to not just complacently give in to what’s going on around me. All my elected officials are R, but I’ll still let them know I exist and have opinions. We have to keep trying. Sort of like those fireflies in TGW! I understand so well your frustration, too. How to have meaningful dialogue when people don’t want to listen and automatically assume that you have nothing of value to contribute. I just spent a good hour or so on LP’s FB site trying to have a civil conversation with somebody who’s upset with LP’s choice to cancel her Kennedy Center gig and thus felt the need to spout a bunch of rhetoric about our current glorious leader. I gave it a try; but that person of course didn’t want to hear anything I had to say, and just assumed that I was uninformed and wrong about everything. In the end, I did state that if she truly felt that we would never be able to have common ground about anything of importance in this country, then we are indeed without hope. And I refuse to believe that we are! But how to find the way to get there… It was very frustrating so I came here to get a dose of positivity and common sense.
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Love and Hugs Susan. We just have to hang onto each other and keep trying. Maybe, in time so many of these tRump supports will start to feel the impact personally of his actions and policies. Only then will many of them wake up and see the light. Like my daughter says, “I hope they have the day they voted for”.
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Thanks, Libby. Back at you. And I’m afraid you’re right about the personal impact making the ultimate difference. I hope we can all survive the learning curve, though!
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Thank you to everyone here. And an especial thank you for those thinking of our national parks and Petroglyph National Monument. My regular volunteer shift at PETR is Friday afternoon. It was an afternoon like none before. When I left at the end of my shift, the staff there still did not know if they would be laid off. I did not know if the people I work with, several have become friends as well, would be there next week. Even some of our visitors asked if people would lose their jobs. The only bright spot was telling one couple that no one could fire me since I am a volunteer. I have since learned that PETR did not lose anyone at this point and that one of our former staff, now at a different monument, is OK as well.
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Jane I am so glad to hear your staff is still in place.The angst of not knowing what will happen to your very lively hood is awful and I am so sorry your co-workers and friends are suffering. We must hang on to what little we as a nation have preserved regarding our history. Here’s hoping next week is a week of less stress and fear.
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Phone tax paid this week: Jane your analogy to Natzi Germany was frightenly spot on. It truly drives home the need to remain proactive. This is no time for apathy.
I made 5 calls to Senators and my Representative this week. Have experienced trouble getting through on all their lines due to HIGH CALL VOLUME!!! That is great news. I will continue to try to get through to them. As well as calling on other important matters.
Thank you for providing us with this table at the Bistro in Three Pines. It is comforting to know we are welcome and safe here to discuss and plan about this dreadful state of our world. I wonder what tRump would do if Putin invaded Alaska and claimed it as his land? My prayer is that your country will forever remain beautiful Canada!!!!-
It seems like the evil pumpkin has been bought and paid for. It’s amazing the delusions of grandeur to think one has any right to dictate the lives of billions around the world. Mental illness and drug addiction need medical treatment, not codes to nuclear weapons.
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You’re absolutely right Susan. This person’s personality disorders make him a ticking time bomb as it is. Then to give him the nuclear codes is unconscionable. All my life this country has stood tall and firm against fascism and to see our democracy teetering on the brink of disaster makes my stomach turn.
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Thank you Libby, I know we can always count on you. That is wonderful news that they’re still experiencing high volumes! I so hope it will continue or possibly even escalate. You and our friends who are fighting are true inspirations; your determination brings hope to all of us here, as well as many international friends I’ve spoken to from all parts of the world.
Having the opportunity to sit at the same table and spend time with everyone here is an absolute delight. It’s a daily reminder of how much goodness really does exist in the world – another source of inspiration – and how much we need to embrace all the sources of joy we can find. Everything can change so quickly.
Wishing all my dearest friends here the very best today!
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Yes, well done Libby! That is very good news to hear about call volumes
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Hello friends!
Twice a week, I join others in resistance — primarily women — at the Lexington Battle Green, the birthplace of American liberty. We call ourselves the ReSisterHood! My two signs read: “Billionaire Bros = Tyranny Grows” and “If You Aren’t ANGRY, You Aren’t Paying ATTENTION!”
I’ve also joined my local Indivisible chapter, a coalition of progressive voices working to strengthen democracy and build community. If you’re looking for a group near you, visit the national organization here: Indivisible Groups. I have found it very uplifting to ‘do something’ and to be around like minded individuals.
Recently, I discovered 5 Calls (5calls.org), a platform that makes civic engagement simple and effective. They research key issues, craft scripts that clearly articulate progressive positions, identify the most influential decision-makers, and provide direct contact numbers for congressional offices. All you have to do is call.
This administration and its enablers are following an authoritarian playbook designed to wear us down—emotionally, spiritually, and mentally—to make us feel hopeless. The immediate goal is to overwhelm, confuse, and demoralize opponents, making them feel powerless and disoriented. This is often done through relentless attacks on democratic norms, a flood of misinformation, or constant political crises. The hope is that people will become exhausted and disengage. But their strategy is usually short-term. Our strength, resilience, and purpose must be long-term.
Take care of yourselves in whatever way you need—meditate, scream, take a hot shower, sip your favorite tea, listen to music, or go for a long walk. Then, when you’re ready, take action—big or small. Every effort counts.
Sending you all strength and solidarity. I’ve missed your voices and am grateful to be here.
—Cheryl
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Cheryl it’s so good to hear your voice once again. I too use 5Calls and will become more active in Indivisible when I get back home.
All your efforts are so appreciated. Welcome to the table in the Bistro of Three Pines!!
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Cheryl,
Grateful you are here and to hear your voice.
Thank you for the information about 5Calls!
I am planning to join the local “ResistTrumpTuesday” gathering of ABQ Indivisible.
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Thanks Cheryl!!! So glad you’ve joined us here. This is exactly the kind of energy we need to see more of, nurture and spread. Courage is contagious.
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Good to see your voice again, Cheryl! And thanks for the information. I will be checking into all of it! I’ve tried 5Calls and found I’m not good at expressing myself that way but will use their various resources and will continue to try, along with other methods, like emails, donations, using my buying/boycotting power, and searching for groups in my area that can make an impact. Being where I live, I’m not finding a lot, but it will continue to be a work in progress and I still have hope. And I’m trying to get as educated as possible from as many sources as I can so that I can provide cogent arguments; this week I subscribed to my Republican representative’s newsletter to see what he’s working/not working on so that I can continue to push where I can. Even if he ignores my views, he will still see my concerns and know that I’m a person with a vote, and if he does anything good, or tries to work across the aisles, I will give encouragement to continue the positive behaviors while asking for more, and I will call him on his bad decisions as well and push him to do the right thing. I will be doing this for the senators as well. As you say, this is a long-term battle, so planning and persistence will be necessary. Glad to hear you’re finding some useful venues! Keep up the good work.
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Hello Cheryl! Thank you for this message! It’s also uplifting to see the efforts that everyone is making, from being active in rallies to being supportive and encouraging online. In most online spaces, it feels either taboo to discuss and completely avoided, or there is an ongoing stream of rants and outrage posts, screaming about the latest headlines, complete with argumentative comment sections. I appreciate the way how this is action-oriented, with helpful sources of tools or information, and a sprinkling of enthusiastic encouragements. Brava to all!
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Hello Cheryl! Great to see you here! Thanks for all you’re doing and for sharing your knowledge; I’d be out there in the cold holding signs beside you if I could.
I’ve added your local IndivisibleLAB group to a couple of #BlueCrew starter packs on Bluesky, so I hope your group will find a few more friends to protest with. I haven’t had very much time to do more than that on Bluesky at the moment, but when I do, I’ll see what else I can do there.
I’ve been working on doing a bit of reading on strategies to combat disinformation and to bring families/communities back together, and have written a little something about that to add to the resource section of this corner of BCF. And I’ve just posted some results from our phone tax campaigns too, if anyone is interested.
I appreciate hearing about what everyone is doing or planning to do. Definitely uplifting.
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Well it’s phone tax Friday. This week I have sent 11 emails to my Congress people. There were so many phone calls that all the lines were jammed and one couldn’t even leave a voice message. So I emailed to be sure my voice was at least heard through text.
I am also participating in the Feb. 28 Economic Blackout.
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Thank you Libby, I was up late working on the discussion questions for “On Tyranny” and I completely forgot that it’s Friday today. Just posted to FB now, but I’ll try to schedule ahead for early morning posts in the future.
Great work on the emails and love to hear about the jammed lines! We’ve removed all the “buy” buttons for books from BCF today, so we’re blacked out here too.
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Jane I’m in the process of reading On Tyranny now. Looking forward to the discussion.
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And I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
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Good thing we have this thread to remind you of the date, Jane!!! Well done Libby!
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Three calls and two emails to Congressional representatives. Joined ABQ Indivisible “Resist Tyranny Tuesday” gathering in downtown ABQ. Lots of honking vehicles and thumbs up! And buying nothing today!
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True to your word!! The good thing about ABQ is that the weather is nice while you’re outdoors – at least I hope it is while you’re out Jane!
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Our weather now is very conducive to enjoying the outdoors until the spring winds arrive and threaten to blow us all to Nebraska!
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Fantastic Jane! Great to hear that there’s so much support from commuters too!
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A quick comment to let you know, Libby and Jane, that I am cheering loudly from my side of the border. You may need a little extra cheer today; please know that the rest of the world knows that your government does not represent you all. You two are what the US is to me, it’s just a shame that the system let all of you wonderful, decent, loving people down. Technology advanced too quickly for the checks to come in to stop the evil, I believe is part of it. Our May BOTM discussion of Maria Ressa’s book should be as insightful as the discussion of “On Tyranny”.
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Thank you! Today’s events from the administration are totally embarrassing. I am grateful for those who see us and the US with a kinder and more open-minded lens.
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Yes, that’s why I’m sending the extra cheer. I’m quite shocked, as it seems the rest of the world is as well. And I feel deep sympathy for all of our American BCF friends.
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Thank you Katherine for your kind thoughts especially after a devastating display from the US government. I am so embarrassed and can only hope other countries realize as you do that not all Americans support what occurred in Washington yesterday. My heart hurts sofor Ukraine.
I truly don’t know what I’d do without the support of my BCFs at this time. Love and Hugs!
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Yes, I do wonder if paper ballots will make a comeback too. We can see that tech is very dangerous and not well understood enough by all to prevent harm from those who know how to program, hack or game it.
I’m also sending a big hug out to everyone. It’s amazing how well you can get to know people and see who they really are, even online.
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I have dropped the ball this week as my body has been invaded by some creeping crud virus that just won’t go away. Am hoping for stronger days this coming week and will pick up where I left off before the germs invaded my head.
I am wanting to read news from other countries – to get their view of what’s happening in the US. If anyone has any suggestions of good sources I am all ears.-
Libby, I have read that these are reputable and objective, but I do not know where to access them: Reuters, BBC News, AP (barred from WH) and Economist (another British publication). I wonder if any of their reporters are on Substack? I’ll have to check that out.
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Thank you Nancy. Will add them to my list.
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All that Nancy list are good sources. I like The Guardian UK too.
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Rest well and take good care, Libby. Hope you’ll feel better soon.
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I find individual articles from Reuters, The Economist and The Guardian regularly posted on Bluesky; probably because the people I follow choose to cite them.
Besides the Resistance Ranger rally and Resist Tyranny Tuesday (about 200 people at that one), I thanked my Representative for voting against the censure motion of Rep. Al Green and sent 3-4 emails each to Senators and my representative.
I have begun copying the links to pointed articles from various sources and attaching those to my emails, to add a little gravitas, so to speak.
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Fantastic Jane! I sent a few emails off this week too. I wanted to thank Justin Trudeau and our premier of BC for hard work they’ve been taking on to fight back for Canada.
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Cheering you all on! And wishing you a speedy recovery Libby! I agree with you Nancy, Maureen and Jane, those are all trustworthy sources of high quality, unbiased journalism.
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Be well, Libby! Hope you feel better soon.
I made 3 calls to my reps this week, and hope to get something more accomplished this weekend. I’m still trying to find my rhythm on who to approach when on what, and I still stumble over my words when I call, but I’m trying. I got a reply to an email that I’d sent to my congressman that was polite but vague and noncommittal about my concerns, but at least he knows I have them. Been looking at all sorts of news sources and need to see which ones I can afford to invest in — does anyone have a particular favorite? Timothy Snyder had recommended Propublica, Wired, The Guardian, and The Week, among some others. I found a good source for Ohio political news (Ohio Capitol Journal) which will help me to keep track of the things going on in my state, too. Have been participating in boycotts (Target, Amazon currently). I know it’s not much, but I’m trying to do what I can.-
Don’t say that what you’re doing is not much Susan! It’s really awesome. It’s the constant tiny pecks of pressure that we create that will take a toll. Keep it up my friend!
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Here’s links to two Economist articles:
https://econ.trib.al/qdsXPz4 (former French president Francois Holland quest essay)
https://econ.trib.al/MFztAA9 (first signs of souring with administration)
Hope these work! It did work, but you have to set up a free account and you can get articles sent to you.
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Thanks, Nancy. Those look good. It looks like they offer brief free trials, then you have to decide which version of the news you want to subscribe to (for a fee). I’m currently trying to check out as many sources as I can, and then try to decide which ones will be most worth subscribing to, and whether or not I can get some of the info for free at the library. This source may well be worth the investment!
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I just signed up for AP, two of their newsletters. They are free.
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Yay– I’ll look into that one, too! Thanks.
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A day late, but for good reason—I’ve been an active force for change! I joined my local Indivisible group and am redesigning their website to be more navigable and dynamic, complete with a “Take Action” menu for local, state, and federal activism. I’ll send you the URL when it’s launched.
I’m also putting my money where my values are. I canceled my Amazon Prime membership and have stopped shopping there and at Whole Foods, ended my Washington Post subscription, and unsubscribed from GoodReads — Bozos (oops, Bezos) has gotten enough of my hard-earned money. Tomorrow, I’m taking the next step by unsubscribing from Meta — goodbye, Facebook and Instagram. Harder than I expected, but I refuse to fund billionaire bros who align with 47 (I can’t even say his name). I got off Twitter when the Muskrat purchased it.
On the ground, I braved sub 20°F (-6.6°C) weather to attend two protests in my town, and I’m looking forward to warmer days ahead.
Keep up the fight—every action counts!
My 27-year-old daughter has felt overwhelmed and paralyzed by the chaos around us. I reminded her to embrace joy and gratitude whenever possible. “How can I do that,” she asked, “when there is so much pain?”
The answer, I told her, lies in a single word: AND.
AND allows us to hold multiple truths at once. It bridges seemingly opposing realities, making space for complexity.
We can acknowledge our pain AND still find joy.
We can feel overwhelmed AND still take action.
We can be critical of the present AND still hopeful for the future.
We can experience stress AND still practice gratitude.Embracing multiple truths makes us stronger. So please, don’t be too hard on yourself when it all feels like too much. Take care of yourself. Put on your favorite music and dance like no one’s watching. Sip your favorite coffee, tisane, wine, bourbon and let yourself daydream—whether it’s of the beach, the mountains, or the bustling streets of NYC. Read or re-read as many of us LP fans do, your favorite book or poetry. Think about that hottie from your favorite guilty pleasure TV show.
Give yourself permission to hold it all—because you are capable of more than you think.
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Awesome, Cheryl! Thanks for the good deeds, good ideas, and inspiration! I really like that “AND” concept.
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I agree with Susan – great words of advice and your acts of activism are inspiring and uplifting. Thank you so much for sharing!!!
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Wow, you are an active force for change! What a wonderful list of achievements and wisdoms. Your daughter is lucky to have a constant source of solid advice. Inspiring and uplifting to hear about your efforts. Thanks Cheryl and I’m cheering you on from Canada!
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Love your energy and encouragement Cheryl! Amazing list of activities and I agree with Katherine; your daughter is one lucky kid. Thanks for checking in with us! I’m looking forward to seeing your redesign of the Indivisible site – they’re lucky to have you helping them.
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Phone tax Friday, March 14:
12 emails concerning forestry, tariffs, and 1st Amendment rights.
I deleted my Goodreads account and plan on ending FB soon.
Have not purchased anything from Amazon in honor of the Amazon blackout 3/7- 3/14.
I have also been intently following the discussion of On Tyranny and participating where I feel I can knowledgabley comment.-
Libby!!! Your list this week is incredible! That’s a large number of emails, but deleting Goodreads? Wow. And even just planning to leave FB? Oh, I’m so, so pleased to read that. That is not easy, I know. But I’m quite sure that your lovely, fun, loving and truly wonderful presence anywhere has strong network effects, so I see your leaving FB as a very big deal.
If you haven’t already, perhaps look into Signal messenger. It’s quite safe as it’s fully encrypted and it’s developed by a nonprofit organization. In addition to one-on-one messaging, you can have group chats and there are some other features I haven’t explored yet too. This might be a good option to stay connected and chat with family and friends and still be able to share photos/vids, etc. via the group chats. There are also desktop and tablet applications that you can install once you set it up on your phone (you do need a phone number). And there is also a way to share your Signal handle and connect with others but not share your phone number in situations where you may want to keep your phone number private. After setting up, it works exactly as other messaging services do, so it should be quite straight forward.
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Jane, thank you so much for the information about Signal messenger. I will definitely look into it. My challenge with FB is contacting members/friends who are friends because of FB and setting up other means of staying in touch with them. Then there’s the issue of securing over 4,000 photos. That is time consuming. I also don’t want to leave right now because I want to continue keeping up the those who respond to the On Tyranny chat. Your information about Signal will keep me encouraged that dropping FB is the right thing to do. Again, thank you.
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Totally understand Libby. Just the thought to leave or minimize use of FB is a big deal and says quite a lot. So when doesn’t matter as much as understanding why; it’s a very personal decision and task.
I’ll put together a little tutorial that will make it easy to set up Signal, and that you can also share with your FB friends to help them set it up too, if they are interested. That might help.
I can’t help you with the 4,000 photos though, my friend. That’s all you and I wish you good luck! (Though I found this document from FB that might help? https://www.facebook.com/help/212802592074644/)
And I’m also pleased that you’re keeping tabs of the discussion in our FB group! You can see how active on FB I am now once again, although I’d prefer not to be, but I try to minimize my time there as much as possible. So I do understand the need to stay on FB. I think FB is still a very valuable tool for billions who use it daily.
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So, made 2 calls, sent 2 emails, am boycotting Amazon this week (and am trying to find alternative ways to shop for the future as well), will be sending a postcard on The Ides of Trump; have signed up for a couple of good newsletters and reports, donated to AP to help them keep reporting responsibly, digesting as much information as possible every day and not looking away, and am sharing news where I can and letting people know of opportunities like this, to encourage participation.
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Fantastic Susan! You are really finding your stride and I cannot be more encouraged and grateful to you and all our BCF friends here. Your actions and show of strength are inspiring and incredibly uplifting. I love your choice of supporting AP too!
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Amazing Libby and Susan! I hope you can hear me cheering from Canada, because I truly am. Stay strong friends! I find these Friday reports so uplifting. Sending you all my love and support!
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Thank you Katherine for your support. Please know that I am always cheering for my Canadian friends. I hope your struggles with the republican administration of the US are few and over quickly. Love and Hugs!!!!
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Hello Friends!
This week, I continued redesigning my local Indivisible website, contacted my Senators to urge them to vote against funding the stopgap budget bill (I’m outraged that Schumer announced Democratic support for it), and attended a protest.
I’ve also learned about two actions I plan to take and want to share here:
1)The “Ides of Trump” postcard campaign is a grassroots initiative encouraging individuals to send postcards to former President Donald Trump on March 15, 2025, expressing their opposition to his actions and policies. The campaign aims to inundate the White House with messages, symbolically delivering “pink slips” to convey that his “probationary period is over” and that he is “fired.” https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/3/13/2309922/-Deluge-the-White-House-with-postcards-on-the-Ides-of-March?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2) U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin is encouraging all U.S. citizens to join him this week in filing formal demands for access to their personal data obtained by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and Elon Musk. https://jamieraskin.com/doge-privacy-act-requests/
I’m accomplishing less than I’d like due to post-concussion symptoms, including headaches and brain fog; the doc is asking me to limit screen time. Harder than it sounds!!
Did I tell you that I think you are all BAWGs? (Bad Ass Warrior Goddesses) Keep up the good works! Stay strong and seek out joy!!! Today, I found joy in the sighting of my first robin redbreast … a sure sign that spring (renewal) is here!!
Cheryl
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Take care with that concussion, Cheryl. Even with a concussion, you’re taking on so much and coming here to inspire us further. I think you are truly a BAWG!! I hope your report next week will include a log of at least a couple of long afternoon naps your poor head must need!
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Thanks, Katherine Ann! It will, indeed!
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Time for Canadians to wake up and take action too. I’ve started a few activism threads now in the appropriate section of the forum. I’ve added and signed several petitions to the Canadian government requesting review of F-35 purchase from the US, review of foreign disinformation campaigns threatening Canada’s democracy, and a review of a Starlink contract with BC Ferries. I also signed the petition to move parliamentary accounts off of X.
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Thank you, Katherine Ann!!
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This week, I made myself the priority!
Aside from continuing to design and populate the Indivisible website, I stepped away from activism and took a much-needed break. I spent five days on my own in a charming small town just an hour away, focusing on rest and renewal. I slept a lot, walked, meditated, and practiced radical acceptance. Each day, I indulged in self-care—massages, reflexology, a facial, and a full-body exfoliation at different spas. I spent more than I planned, but every moment was worth it.
Oh my, self-care truly matters! While I’m still navigating post-concussion challenges, I feel noticeably better. It’s a powerful reminder that putting on your own oxygen mask first isn’t just advice—it’s essential.I hope you’re all doing well and taking time for self-care, stepping away from the stress and challenges we’re facing to recharge and restore.
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Good for you, Cheryl. Activism is a form of caregiving— it’s an activity engaged in caring for and about others, and a caregiver who neglects to take care of themselves cannot fully take care of others to the best of their ability. Balance is needed, and it’s a wise person who knows when to take a moment and heal themselves. I’m glad you’re feeling better!
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Well said Susan! Glad you’re on the mend Cheryl!
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Agreed, and thank you, Susan!!
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What a lovely view of activism, Susan A! Thanks for sharing your beautiful words.
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I agree, that’s a very good perspective Susan! And I’m glad to hear that you followed through on your naps and self-care Cheryl!
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10 emails this week to my two senators and one Representative. Received a letter from each of them this week outlining what they have been doing and encouraging me to keep in contact so they understand what We the People want.
Am on the road heading home and will take next week to settle back into my home routine. Then back at it.-
Great update Libby! Safe travels back home!! I hope you’ll grab a journal or two to bring back with you…maybe you’ll have time to share another Kindred Spirit story sometime again!
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Thanks Susan.
I have seven journals with me. Will be putting together a couple stories after getting settled in at home. Thanks for asking about that.-
Oh good! I’m so looking forward to the next stories! Hope your drive home is smooth and safe Libby!
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I’m also pleased to know that we might see another story or two from you Libby! Enjoy your trip home and let us know when you’ve arrived home safely.
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I can no longer remember what I emailed my Congressional delegation when but I received multiple reply emails this week.
I have concentrated on local issues this week because “all politics is local” but, sadly, heavily influenced now by the abysmal animus of the current administration. The discussion of “On Tyranny” is helpful and has its applications to local issues as well. The willingness to lie and do so repeatedly is not limited to the national political discourse!
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Sorry I’m late in replying; had some issues to deal with. I sent 4 emails to my representatives this week, and donated to another independent news publication, and have been combing through tons of news, podcasts, etc. and trying to digest and educate myself on all the information. I’m trying to reward, encourage, and support those agencies that are holding on to their integrity. I’m trying to pay more attention to economics and trade, a subject that I know little about, but since it’s the core of much or what’s going on in this world today, I’m trying to get a better grip on it so that I can make more cogent arguments when they come up. Same with the multiple assaults on the legal system, which I find appalling. I find I do much better in my communications with my representatives if I’m informed enough to express myself objectively, and not just emotionally, but I am still a work in progress, unfortunately.
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I’ve also signed all the petitions for Canadians.
I am consistently impressed and inspired by the comments in this thread. And I’m proud to be in such good company. Thank you all for showing up!
Super pleased that you’re feeling better Cheryl! Thanks for the sound advice. I really love that you’re putting yourself first and taking the time and resources needed to do it properly!
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Phone tax Friday, March 28. For three days I have not been able to get through to Social Security, and several attempts to access my account with them online have failed. My needs are having some simple questions involving Social Security answered. My ability to survive does not rely on answering these questions right now. I have the luxury of some time but there are so many who don’t. This alone is a national nightmare and from the rallies around the country are causing people great stress. So, I emailed my two senators and one congressman about my concerns and experiences. I also sent them each separate emails about not endorsing the administrations pick to lead the Social Security Administration. So that’s 6 emails this week.
I have also participated in the Nestle boycott this past week. I do love my chocolate but there are other sources to satisfy my chocolate cravings. Onward and forward with elbows up!!!! Let our voices be heard.
Happy Weekend everyone!!!!
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I’m so sorry you’re having that issue Libby. Everyone will soon be affected by the actions of the administration and I hope it is then that the resistance roars.
Elbows up Libby!!! Have a wonderful weekend!
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So sorry you’re having trouble with your social security already, Libby but kudos for all you’ve accomplished this week. Have a nice weekend.
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Fantastic job, on all the emails Libby. Glad you took such a frustrating experience and transformed it into positive action. It’s appalling that they have kneecapped the support for social security knowing how reliant people are on it. I hope you found some good chocolate substitutes for yourself after such as stressful three days. Elbows up!
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Two separate emails to each Senator and our representative, Town Hall with mayor addressing the impact of potential federal funding cuts.
I am sorry to hear about the issues you mention with SSA. I think this is an under-reported effect of what the administration is attempting to do. It will not be only those without internet access or skills, cutbacks are intended to effect everyone.
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Yes exactly, I agree Jane. All of these effects are going to be under-reported, especially with the current mainstream media coverage and the almost constant “gaslighting” going on from Republicans. Glad you are attending town halls to learn and hear what others are thinking. Did you find it helpful?
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Hi, all. And so the insanity continues…. I’ve made 3 calls this week, and sent 7 emails. My main focus this week was library and museum defunding, Social Security protection, and a bill involving our higher education in OH, which the governor failed to veto anyway. I’m trying to keep up on the daily current events and jump in whenever I see an opportunity to speak up. Struggling a bit with time management at the moment, but I’ll keep on plugging away. Wishing you all a good, safe week!
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So happy to hear you “went to bat” for libraries, museums, and higher education – three causes dear to my heart. Keep plugging away, Susan! And hope you have a good safe week too. Elbows up!
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This week I protested at our weekly gathering at the Lexington Green, the birthplace of American Liberty. I sent emails to my congresspeople about the Signal disaster. I starting organizing a local Hands Off protest for Sat. April 5 https://handsoff2025.com/?SQF_SOURCE=thirdact. And I continued to redesign the Indivisible website (which is a lot harder than I expected!!).
I dealt with some feelings of overwhelm and powerlessness for a bit AND I kept putting one foot in front of the other.
Hoping all my sisters are staying strong and remembering to employ self-care.
Cheryl
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April 5th sounds like it’s shaping up to be a big event, Cheryl. I’m hoping it gets a huge turnout. A big hug of support to you – you are doing a lot of big things, I hope you recognize that. And I want to add that your words of wisdom to your daughter that you shared here on BCF moved me greatly. Your answer to her about AND and “Embracing multiple truths makes us stronger” helped lift me up when I was feeling low recently. Thank you so much for that.
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I will be at Civic Plaza in ABQ! They had to plan the event around the annual celebration for Dolores Huerta, an American labor leader and NM native!
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We’re gearing up for a federal election here in a few weeks and I want to be a part of the process so I applied to be a poll worker for the first time in my life. Also I got a copy of Careless People to review. I think the book will be relevant to our discussions of current events and provide insights into the role of social media is playing in accelerating the destruction of democracy. Elbows up, everyone!
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I intend to work “Elbows up” into a regular rotation in my communications! For me, it is a very practical and inspiring image.
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Elbows up everyone! Cheers to you all!!!
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This week has been incredibly busy, yet immensely rewarding! Last Saturday, I organized a local Hands Off rally, and the turnout was phenomenal—we had nearly 500 people attend! I was the keynote speaker (definitely outside my comfort zone, but by the end, I felt about an inch taller from the growth I experienced!). We were also joined by three local elected officials and the chair of the local Democratic Party Committee, who each made impactful remarks. The crowd was energized, the program was well-received, and the enthusiasm carried us as we marched from the Depot to the Battle Green and back, proudly holding our signs. Even in the rain, support remained strong as participants lined Mass Ave for an additional 20 minutes, cheered on by a steady stream of cars honking in solidarity. One of the participants even made a heartfelt TikTok for me—completely unsolicited! The best part has been the thank-you notes I’ve been receiving. Many people have shared that they feel hopeful again and less alone.
I’m nearly done with the website and plan to launch it mid-next week. I’ve created a resources page and have been researching what other organizations are doing, as well as diving into numerous blogs. I can’t wait to share it with you all!
Hope you had a great week as well!
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Wonderful Cheryl!!
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That is amazing, Cheryl! Fortunately, neither the ABQ “Hands Off” rally or “Resist Tyranny Tuesdays” rely on me to organize them but the certainly are energizing.
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Jane, every action counts! Would love to hear more about your events.
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Thanks for asking, Cheryl. The “Hands Off” rally was part of the nationwide events; organized by two local Indivisible groups and others. The cost of the event was about $10,000 and it was entirely covered by donations. I believe the crowd was estimated at 5,000. It was a scripted event with multiple speakers, including Dolores Huerta, who along with Cesar Chavez organized the US farm worker’s movement.
“Resist Tyranny Tuesday” is much more casual, no speakers (although there is a guitarist singing variations of 1960-1970s folk music and a drummer). We meet at a central and busy ABQ intersection bounded on three sides by our local, state and federal courthouses. Folks carry signs, chat, cross the street on the light and generally look visible. The gratifying part is how many vehicles honk their approval or high-five the people there.
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That is a very busy week. You’re doing amazing things, Cheryl! So wonderful that people felt inspired and hopeful afterwards. Keep up all the great work and I’m looking forward to hearing (and seeing) more about what you’re working on!
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Last week, I met Tara for lunch and we decided to visit one of the many Elections Canada offices to vote. This was considered “early voting”, whereas Friday was the first day of “advanced voting”. The official date of the election and when the majority of votes will be cast is on April 28th. Friday’s advanced voting numbers showed a record turnout of 2 million voters, with some voters waiting as long as three hours to cast their votes.
During our early voting visit, Tara waited for perhaps 30 seconds before being guided to her poll worker and given her voting card. My wait was a little longer at 45 seconds.
Despite the fact that Tara lives in a different neighbourhood in Vancouver, she and I were able to cast our votes in the same office. In fact, while I was going through the process of casting my vote, my assigned poll worker told me that the Elections Canada offices were available to all Canadians and that someone from Ontario had visited her office (located in North Vancouver). Amazing! We Canadians are incredibly lucky to have wonderful support systems in place to exercise our democratic rights.
I know that another day of protests across the States was scheduled yesterday, so I am sending my love and support to all our American friends. Stay strong my friends. We are all in this together. Elbows and flippers up!
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Great to hear from you Jane. What a positive experience you had voting. Canada is doing to right!!!
I keep watching the SAVE Act here in the States to see if it will pass the Senate. If it does I want to begin some kind of education campaign so that everyone knows what they need to do in order to vote. I so fear we will lose our voices if the present government has their way with voting regulations here. Sometimes it’s the waiting to see what will happen next that is the hardest.
Elbows and flippers up and HUGS!!
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I love your idea for an educational campaign Libby. Let us know if we can help somehow.
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It certainly was a breeze to vote and I’m glad to have gone early. Everyone there was so friendly. I so hope you are able to keep your voices strong and clear and all these nasty efforts to suppress women’s votes are thwarted quickly. Elbows and flippers up!
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Thanks, Canada, for showing how voting should work.
I joined ABQ’s 50501 Protest yesterday. The day started with rain and turned to snow for our rally and march. The moisture sort of made the gathering doubly blessed since it ended our 153 day stretch of zero precipitation! The vegetation already looks greener!
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What a hardy bunch you all are braving rain and snow! Kudos, Jane. It’s almost like your protest was blessed by the rain gods!
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This past week, I submitted the Indivisible website to the steering committee for review. I’m hopeful the work will meet their expectations.
Much of the week was also dedicated to preparations for the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington. I participated in several events, including the Patriots’ Day Parade. While the experience was rewarding, the unseasonably warm 82-degree weather made the three-mile march in five layers of colonial attire especially challenging—particularly for this proud “sexygenarian.” I’m in the lavender colonial garb.
The turnout along Massachusetts Avenue was remarkable, with an estimated 10,000 spectators. Even more inspiring was the visible spirit of civic engagement—approximately 60% of attendees carried protest signs. One recurring message stood out: “No Kings, No Tyrants”—a powerful quote from Thomas Paine that resonates just as strongly today.
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Cheryl, you are “bringing the heat” and Jane’s “bringing the chill.” You are doing such wonderful things in your community. Great to see a big turnout for the parade and that you got through it despite the weather. How strange it is that Thomas Paine’s quote is now directed inward at the threat from within and no longer at the British. A lot can change in 250 years and yet so little.
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I have voted for our election and am still and always cheering loudly for our American friends! The resistance is strong, smart and widespread. The SC ruling against the administration this week is a positive sign and, combined with the incompetence, I have high hopes for the US. Elbows and flippers up!! But arms out for our American friends.
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