No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens.” – Michelle Obama

Raincheck for Women's Day Celebration!
If you were planning to attend the International Women's Day celebration downtown tomorrow (3/21), stay home & stay dry. With high winds and rain predicted, the organizers have opted to reschedule. Instead, plan to attend this celebration of women next Saturday, March 27 starting at 1 pm. Details below.

Thursday, March 25, 6 PM - Meet Val Demings
This week Zoom offers us the chance to join like-minded Floridians in a virtual gathering with one of our most impressive political representatives. The Broward County Democrats' Senior Caucus is hosting Congresswoman Val Demings and all of us are invited. Demings will give her perspective on the current climate in Congress and take questions from the audience.
Click here to register in advance and receive zoom information.
You can submit questions as you register, or email them later to lp11324@comcast.net.
Speak Out on These Bills in Tallahassee
While most of the action in Tallahassee is still in committees, three dangerous bills have been placed on the House Calendar and could be voted on as early as this Thursday, March 25. Urge NO votes on all.
- HB 1 - (aka SB 484) The Combating Public Disorder (anti-protesting) bill - is an alarming and unnecessary attack on free speech and dissent. State and federal laws already address the disorders this bill claims to prevent.
- HB 259 - The Safety of Religious Institutions bill allows weapons in houses of worship - even those attached to schools.
- HB 7005 - Shields health care providers that ignore safety protocols from being held responsible for negligence and failure to protect employees and customers from spread of Covid related illnesses.
For most reading this, email Rep Cord Byrd or phone him at (850) 717-5011.
Or confirm/find your Representative’s contact information here.
There are hundreds more bills moving through the committee process in both House & Senate each day. To stay current, sign up for UUJF Action Alerts targeted to your voting district.
Bringing Stacy Abrams' Skills to Florida
Progressive groups across Florida are talking about ways to import the organizing savvy and success we witnessed in Georgia in 2020. One key to victory there was many groups doing the hard work of making real connections with voters - to understand their concerns and priorities before asking them to register or vote. If you're interested in learning more about this so-called "deep canvassing," Sarasota Dems are offering two virtual training sessions this week. Click for more info below:
Tuesday, March 23 - 5-6:30 pm.
Thursday, March 25 - 1-2:30 pm.
Weigh in on Duval School Re-Naming NOW!
If you want a voice in re-naming local schools, the time for action is now. Although the School Board has indicated support for changing the names of schools currently honoring divisive figures, final decisions will be based on public input. Students, parents, alumni, faculty and citizens that live in each school's area are eligible to vote, but you must go to the school and provide a confirming ID to participate. Meetings this week include Jean Ribault High & Middle at 6 pm Monday, March 22, and Robert E Lee High on both March 23 & 25. Click here for full details.
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