We're Still Protesting!

Four months strong, and we’re not backing down.

Hi everyone! Hope you're all doing well. It's time for our weekly update, and I've got a lot to share, so pull up a chair and let's chat.

First things first, I've heard a few whispers wondering if our Saturday 1 p.m. protest is still on. You bet it is!

We'll keep gathering every single Saturday, just like we have for the past four months. I'm not sure where that rumor started, but it just goes to show how important our little SW Crier is for keeping us all on the same page.

Rain or Shine

One quick note on the weather: if it rains, we'll still be there. But if we see lightning, we'll have to call it off for safety. Minnesota weather can be a real character, so I'll make the final decision right around 1 p.m. Just use your best judgment, and we'll see you there if it's safe!

What to Protest?

The national movement has put out a call to protest the GOP's redistricting (or gerrymandering) efforts. If you want to follow their lead, that's the big push right now. But remember, you're always welcome to protest whatever issue speaks most to your heart.

Now, if you'll let me get on my soapbox for a minute, I want to share my two cents. It feels like every week; Trump throws another issue at us to distract from what's really going on. All these issues are serious, I know.

But you must hand it to the GOP—they've gotten so good at picking just one issue and hammering it home again and again. They know there's this psychological phenomenon that says the more you repeat something, the more people believe it's true.

Democrats, on the other hand, can be all over the map with our messaging. Ask ten of us why we're mad, and you'll get ten different answers. Ask ten Republicans, and they'll all give you a pretty uniform response.

I've been thinking about the Epstein Files. This is one issue that a lot of people on both sides can agree on: pedophiles shouldn't be in government. We were really starting to gain traction with it and even saw some panic from the Trump administration. But then, we started dancing to Trump's tune again and moved on to the next issue of the day—redistricting.

Gerrymandering is terrible, just like all the other issues! But remember how they got Al Capone? Not for murder or extortion, but for tax evasion. The Epstein Files have the power to turn a lot of his base against him, and that's why he's so afraid of them.

Anyway, that's enough from me! Protest whatever issue you feel most passionate about.

Tell Your Tale

Our very own Andie, one of our most dedicated protesters, wants to get to know you a little better. She'd love to interview anyone who is willing to chat and has something to say. She wants to share these conversations on social media and right here on the SW Crier. You don't even have to show your face—it can just be your voice if you'd like.

Personal stories are a very powerful way of building this movement. Organizers for President Obama’s first presidential campaign had supporters stand up and tell their story about why they were there.

• Stories build community.

• Stories allow others to identify with the group.

• Stories are motivating.

Here are some of the questions she's been thinking about. If any of them speak to you (or if you have your own ideas), please look for her on Saturdays (she’ll be the person carrying the “SPEAK OUT!” sign. Just let her know you're interested.

• Why do you come to the protests?

• What are you most worried about right now?

• What gives you hope?

• What would you say to someone at home who feels scared or hopeless?

• Do you have a message for Tom Emmer?

Get Ready for a Big Push

Finally, many of you have asked about the next big national push. That's coming up on Labor Day. Start spreading the word to your friends, neighbors, and family now. Let's make that Saturday gathering epic.