Life After Protesting
The Fabulous Frisson of Success
Hi All! We ended our season of protests with a good turnout, about 40, and the heartening sentiment of all that we must find other things to do now to advance our movement. Having that foundation on which to build is a gift. We have a laudable record of many peaceful, weekly protests, since the middle of August. You never know which sign or the sight of which protester will spur someone’s Aha! moment. When I saw Libby, a 96-year-old protester holding her big sign, waving and smiling, I knew what I had to do. Our protests have raised awareness, I hope, and prompted others to vote* and take other actions to shelter from the storm overhead.
We were lucky to not have had Pantaloons to deal with yesterday. I don’t know what kept him from his self-appointed rounds, except maybe his success last week, with the police mischaracterizing his harassment as protected speech. But, there’s another possible reason. I emailed the Closter Borough attorney late last week about what seems to be ignorance of the law. I’ve heard nothing back yet.
A goal of our resistance is to force elected officials—particularly Republicans—and law enforcement to uphold their oath to protect the community, protect the people in it, and uphold the law. There can be no capitulation on this point. But, if they put me in the pokey, I’m going to need cookies.
I know many of you are working these last few days to get out the vote, some ignoring aches and pains, pressing responsibilities, and the general wish to do as little as possible and just sit down and daydream, for heaven’s sake. We’re each pinning our hopes on Sherrill and all the down-ballot Dems winning, I’m sure. I applaud and so appreciate all your efforts to achieve this!
The situation with this administration is like an emergency room triage. And, organizers find themselves like the proverbial high-maintenance lover who demands to know, What have you done for me lately? Our answer is usually, Not enough! But, not today. This week, we can enjoy some respite, respite that often brings with it the benefit of passive thinking. And, hopefully, election success for Dems!**
I have been so lifted by the responses I’ve had from you, both in person and email. I value your willingness and efforts, and look forward to your input and working with you. I know we’ll grow our movement and see it through to sweet success!
Rest-o is the best-o!
Bonnie
*If you or someone you know needs a ride to the polls, I’m available.
**Something to fuel your optimism today:
Simon Rosenberg — Hopium Chronicles:
Sunday Hopium – Democrats Rally Across The Country As Sad, Sundowning And Deeply Unpopular Donald Stays Home