Freedom Means Freedom for Everyone
A Fourth of July protest celebrating freedom, community, and the rights that belong to all of us.
Our protest this Saturday falls on the 4th of July, and I think that is very fitting. Our protest celebrates what the USA stands for. Besides apple pie, hot dogs, and fireworks, the USA stands for freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and yes, even your right to bear arms.
We know that, besides the right to bear arms, all the other freedoms are under attack. And it does not matter if you are a Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, or if you support the Flying Spaghetti Monster, we all support those ideals! When I see someone driving by giving us the finger, I always want to explain to them that I am fighting for their rights too.
This week, the Supreme Court handed down this year’s last decisions. Some were positive, and many were very negative. The ban on transgender girls and women competing on female sports teams being upheld was a tough one, but I want to point out that because they are leaving it up to the states, Governor Walz has already said he will not follow this ban.
This is one reason why it is so important to support our Minnesota candidates. We can lessen the damage done by this administration by making sure everyone, from the school board to the governor’s mansion, is fighting for all people.
I really hope that you are finding comfort and hope in the little things around you. Summer in Minnesota means growing your own tomatoes and eating them before you even make it inside the house. It means warmth and, at times, scorching heat, barbecues and s’mores, and going to the lake.
Coming to the protest means that, for one hour, you are surrounded by a community that is vibrant, supportive, and persistent. We have been so persistent! Cold, rain, and now heat are not stopping us because we know this is bigger than all of us.
Come Saturday, and let’s celebrate!
Note: Chanhassen’s location this Saturday will be on the pedestrian bridge. Suggested parking is on Lake Drive East.
Don’t forget that this upcoming Tuesday we meet at the Bellows for our SW Protectors get-together. It is a time to meet others, laugh, support one another, and learn about what is happening in our community.
Judith
Chaska Protests
Every Friday from 3:00–4:00 p.m. at the corner of Chaska Blvd. and Chestnut Street (Highway 41) [Map]
Every Saturday from 1-2 pm at the corner of Hazeltine Boulevard and Highway 41 (Chestnut) [Map]
Chanhassen Protests
Every Saturday from 10-11 am at 7700 Market Boulevard [Map] Public parking is available behind City Hall.
Norwood Young America
Every Sunday, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. (Line up at the bike path south of Highway 212 and Faxon.)
Victoria
Every Wednesday from 4:30-5:30 pm on the corner of Highway 5 and Victoria Drive/County Rd 11.
Waconia
Every Saturday from 11:30-12:30 pm at Highway 5 and County Road 10 in front of the Starbucks and Jersey Mike’s. [Map]
SW Protectors
Every first and third Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. It’s no cost and come and go as you like.
Please do buy something to eat or drink, though, to support our venue, which is The Bellows restaurant and it’s located at 232 Pioneer Trail in Chaska.