When in the course of human events, you realize that current, government-sanctioned practices fly SQUARELY in the face of your idea that everyone should be Safe, Loved, and Warm, you get off your ass and go hollering.
Which is how I found myself in Philadelphia on Saturday for the Philadelphia Families Belong Together rally. Because I can’t be in this only for myself.
I took the train in. It was full of people of all ages, with crafty signs and optimistic smiles. It was one of the better commutes I had!
I met SMD from Life According to Steph, her husband MFD, and their friend Debbie. Local bloggers rule.
The crowd was impressive, given:
> Many locals leave the Philadelphia area the week of July 4th
> And many tourists arrive in the city the week of July 4th
> It was 95 degrees. Not it *felt* 95 degrees. It was a literal 95 degrees.
The speakers really shone. The organizers selected speakers of all ages and backgrounds, and they all spoke passionately about their experiences being immigrants, and of being incarcerated and having their loved ones incarcerated. There was laughter, tears, cursing, poetry, and songs.
Of course, the signs were amazing.
Instead of making a sign, I downloaded mine from the ACLU’s resource page, and printed 4 out at FedEx Office. Four 11×17, color, double-sided posters cost $23. I gave three away. Money well spent, IMO.
I stayed until the end of the rally and then headed home. Hot, tired, but pleased that I lent my (very horse) voice to the public outcry.
Other Safe, Loved, and Warm updates:
Postcards: After a few weeks off (I needed more stamps) I’m back into the postcard game. I plan on spending part of my July 4th writing them out.
Town Hall Meeting: I haven’t gone yet. I’m afraid I’ll be the only spectator there, which is silly. I’ll get there.
Resistbot: I’m in it about once a week now, down from every day. If you’re looking for a very easy entry into making your voice heard, try this!
I love the signs gathered at the end.
I am back to every day Resistbot since this freaking caged people thing really torqued up again.
Love your post and your coverage of the Philly marches. Our paper actually reported the Hundreds of Thousands that came out for this day of demonstrations. This should give you hope, knowing this town’s paper’s really right wing bent.