This Is Happening Here

Why local action matters more than ever

A Note From Judith:

It was gray and cold this past Saturday, but there was no wind—and baker Oana generously donated her amazing Romanian cookies. They were set out at the refreshment table, and I can personally report that hot cocoa and those cookies were delicious.

In total, 210 people and Winston the dog stood up against tyranny.

I woke up Saturday morning at 4:00 a.m., before I’d even had my coffee, and read the news that our government had invaded and bombed Venezuela and detained its sitting president. At the same time, ICE agents are conducting raids across the Twin Cities.

These are happening without warrants, while intimidating observers and breaking laws—including traffic laws—by blowing through red lights and driving aggressively. There are raids every day, at all hours.

Because of how quickly these actions are happening, the news often can’t get there in time with their cameras, so you will not be seeing much of this on TV.

I am involved with several rapid-response groups across the metro area, and the amount of activity is frightening. I’m sharing this because many people have told me they were unaware this is happening in our own towns.

I know many of you who read this newsletter are unable to come to the Saturday protests but still want to participate. Here are some ways you can help:

• Join us at the Bellows for the SW Protectors gatherings (scroll for details) to meet others, build community, and learn from speakers about how you can help.

• Hang signs where you live showing that you do not support what is happening. Even something as simple as a sign in a window can encourage others to speak out when they realize they are not alone. These signs also give hope to those who are afraid of being taken today.

• Share this newsletter so more people can find the community and support they need to help defend our democracy.

• Shop at ethnic grocery stores and restaurants. These businesses are hurting right now and need support. If you’ve never been and want someone to go with, let me know—I love exploring and trying new things.

• Educate yourself. Read or watch trusted journalists and commentators like Rachel Maddow and Aaron Parnas. Knowledge is power.

If you want to help by volunteering:

• The Chaska protests would love volunteers, especially those who helped Kim with the refreshment table.

• The Waconia protests would appreciate support in the coming weeks, as they’ve had some agitators recently. I’ll try to be there next week and hope to see you too.

• SW Protectors also need volunteers. Please talk to me if you’re interested.

Do you know people or organizations that would be a good fit to speak at the Bellows? Please let me know.

Finally, the next few days will likely be filled with overwhelming and frightening news—stories about Venezuela, the Epstein Files, and more.

Please remember that it is okay to turn off the news for a day. Have a cup of coffee with a friend. Enjoy yourself. Rest.

When we spiral into despair, frustration, and anger, we become paralyzed—and that works in the regime’s favor. If we feel that way, we can’t focus, and we stop resisting. So breathe. Keep breathing. Take breaks when you need to. And do not give up.

We’ve got this.

Events

Oppose Carver County ICE Contract

At 9 am tomorrow, January 6, the Carver County Board of Commissioners meet for an organizational session. Carver County Sheriff Jason Kamerud is in the process of pursuing a contract with the federal government to rent our jail cells to ICE. Several people are planning to testify in opposition to any such contract during the portion of the meeting devoted to public comments.

Please attend if you are able as a show of support or testify yourself.

Board meetings are held at the Government Center - Human Services, second floor, 602 East 4th Street, Chaska

Monarca Training

Another opportunity is the Monarca training on Friday, January 16th, at Crown of Glory Church (1141 Cardinal Street in Chaska). This will be a bystander training. You must sign up in advance so we can ensure there is enough space. Please share this with friends or neighbors who may be interested.

SW Protetors Speaker Schedule

Join us at the SW Protectors get-together on the first and third Tuesdays (details below) of each month.

I am currently scheduling speakers. Here is what we have so far:

• January 6: Latino Voices will speak about how their community is affected and what we can do to help.

• January 20: Doug Chapin, the only candidate running against Emmer. Please come with your questions.

• February 3: Representatives from the Quba Islamic Center will talk about the challenges they are facing and ways we can support them.

• February 17: Dr. Dan Kessler, candidate for Senate District 48B. Please bring your questions.

Chaska Protests

Every Saturday from 1-2 pm at the corner of Hazeltine Boulevard and Highway 41 (Chestnut) [Map]

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.