MARCH ON WASHINGTON D.C., AUGUST 28, 1963
To build a stronger, more just democracy by empowering Vermont activists to work on behalf of voters in other states. We promote meaningful, sustained actions that focus on supporting and protecting the vote and building democratic power at the local, state, and federal levels. — Robert Kraig, Executive Director, Citizen Action of Wisconsin
Why Work in Other States?
The regressive laws, regulations, and disinformation that come from other states affect us by making our nation weaker. The “Big Lie” didn’t start with Trump. It is the result of years of right-wing groups infiltrating the Republican party and working to control power at the local and state level. They have reworked the rules on every stratum of society, from gerrymandering to pitting groups of people against each other using disinformation, fear, and racism. The midterm elections were a relief but hardly a victory.
Organizers in the states we’ve chosen to work in are struggling every day, all year round, to counter right-wing Republican actions. They believe, as we do, that when a state has fair and free elections and elects leaders who genuinely believe in civic responsibility, we all have a better chance at having a more prosperous, equitable, and just nation. Working on elections ripples across the country because we are one nation.
First Up: Wisconsin
On April 4, Wisconsin will see what is arguably the most important election of 2023. Anti-democracy conservatives currently hold a 4-3 majority on the court, but one of them is retiring. Progressives will have a chance to flip the court and take the majority, which will mean there is a chance to fight for fair district maps and fair representation, overturn the 1849 abortion ban, champion voting rights in Wisconsin, and even protect the integrity of the 2024 presidential election—all are on the line.
Actions You Can Take
VOTER PROTECTION: Help recruit poll observers for the state Supreme Court election in April. Poll observers are the eyes and ears at polling locations, and Wisconsin needs our help to recruit them so that voters can safely and easily cast their ballots this spring. These are some of the easiest and most rewarding calls you can make! All you need is your phone and a computer (laptop or desktop, not a tablet). Organizers offer training and provide the script at every phonebank on Zoom! You will receive a Zoom link in the confirmation email. (NOTE: all times are Central time; multiple days/times available). SIGN UP HERE!
POSTCARDS: Starting in mid-February we’ll be writing to Wisconsin voters with Reclaim Our Vote/Center for Common Ground. The postcard text will likely focus on two main issues: abortion access and voting rights. You’ll receive more details about this drive by mid-February (the mailing date is mid-March), but go ahead and purchase your postcards now.
HOW TO PURCHASE POSTCARDS! ROV postcards are always required for ROV drives. Order larger batches of ROV postcards here; order smaller batches here. Don’t be afraid to order enough postcards to last the year! We’ll be writing to Virginia voters for the primary in June and for the general in November.
Fund the Movement
February Beneficiary
Flip It: Wisconsin Supreme Court
Judicial races in off-years often fly under the radar. But Democrats will turn out if they are informed of the stakes and know which candidates will represent their values. The Wisconsin Dems are pulling out all the stops to reach Democratic voters. Early money will make sure they have the resources they need to compete in what promises to be THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL ELECTION IN 2023.
We Need Your Perspective!
Lean Left’s 2024 plan will take shape throughout the year as activists weigh in on their most successful and rewarding work during the midterms. Whether you worked on Lean Left—promoted actions or actions promoted by other organizations, we want to hear about your experiences. If you phone banked, texted, or canvassed during the 2022 Midterms—or you wanted to but couldn’t get going—we want your perspective. Please take the time to fill out this short form, and one of us at Lean Left will give you a call: Volunteer Contact Form.
They moved the country forward. So can we.
Watch the Lean Left website for additional actions as they arise: www.leanleftvt.org/take-action
Questions about Lean Left’s work or how you can join us?
Contact us here.
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