By Gary Zuckett, WV CAG Co-Director
Even though we’ve been mostly focused on the hijinks at the State Capitol, we can’t ignore the chainsaw that the DOGEbags are taking to our federal workforce, health care infrastructure, and other vital programs West Virginians and people around the country rely on.
More and more folks are becoming alarmed at this carnage and a national day of protest is scheduled for this Saturday, April 5, at noon. Events are planned for Washington DC and various locations around the state and country. Hands-Off is supported by dozens of national groups including People’s Action; the Service Employees International Union-1199, the National Education Association, American Federation of Teachers and other labor unions; the League of Women Voters and Women’s March, and too many others to name. Find an event near you at https://www.mobilize.us/handsoff/
It’s important that we stand up to let our elected representatives know we expect them to do more than roll over as DOGE and Donald Trump gut lifesaving services and the agencies that protect our families, jobs, water and air.
Even in red West Virginia, our communities are rising up against the inhumanity of this administration. In March our Morgantown Chapter, Mountaineers Indivisible Citizen Action protested outside of Congressman Riley Moore and Senator Shelly Moore Capito’s offices in opposition to a federal budget that makes any cuts to Medicaid. This Saturday, they will also host a peaceful march and rally with attendance expected at over 1,000 people to voice our displeasure over this administration’s cuts to federal jobs that have impacted Morgantown and our state directly, and the attacks on the environment, rising energy costs, and proposed cuts to Medicaid that are harming our communities.
Protesting is important, but real change comes from organizing. That means building power in our communities, having tough conversations, and making action plans together. One key piece is finding and supporting candidates who share our values. The deadline to run for office in West Virginia is in January—less than 10 months away. Whether running, encouraging someone else, or pitching in however you can, now is the time to get involved. This is what democracy looks like.
Voting with Your Greens
Yes, this is possible when you use dollar bills for ballots and send them to support WV Citizen Action’s efforts to build a people and planet centered state and nation. In fact, you can vote right now by going to www.wvcag.org and signing up as a supporting member! Of course the post office is still working (for now) and posting a check to 1500 Dixie Street, Charleston, WV 25311 works just as well. Thanks again for your support!