What can you do?

Do something and keep doing it.

At our membership meeting in November 2025, we discussed the feeling we all share of being overwhelmed by current events. Our facilitator reminded us that we can’t  focus on everything everywhere, all at once. She encouraged us to consider the 4 following ways of active engagement and choose one to focus upon:

1). Defend Civic Institutions

• Libraries – use them and join library boards
• Schools – attend meetings, support participants, voice concerns
• Learn the Constitution – the Bill of Rights especially
• Learn about the Judicial branch of government – Rule of Law – Separation of Powers
• Advocate for bathroom accessibility for non-binary and disabled people. Understand ADA requirements
• Advocate for affordable and accessible Social Services – health insurance, unemployment, food assistance
• Follow changes to Health and Human Services – advocate for funding and programs.
• Learn more about and give support to Veteran’s affairs and benefits

2). Build Alternatives

• Run for office
• Civic duty – make it respectable
• Make sure candidates know they are supported
• Stop over-simplifying people’s arguments on complicated issues. Engage in real listening and discussion
• Educate younger generations
• Go! Go to meetings – ask questions, ask for explanations

3). Protect People

• Learn about ICE & Immigration laws – Talk to local police, get to know them (in a good way :))
• Fight food insecurity – contribute to Loaves & Fishes, Powell Episcopal Church, Cody Cupboard, Christmas baskets, meals in a bag, gift cards to grocery stores, Backpack Blessings, Thanksgiving dinners
• Donate coats, hats, gloves, mittens
• Help LGBTQ people feel safe and welcome – attend or organize programs in your community or school
• Support farmers & ranchers – buy local, shop farmers markets, join Park County Open Lands or other farm-friendly organizations.
• Contact a charity or group you trust and support as much as possible

4). Disrupt and Disobey

• Attend your political party meetings prepared to ask specific questions
• Write letters to the editor
• Run for office / Support candidates  / participate in boycotts & general strikes
• Practice Guerrilla activism (look it up)
• Buy and distribute protest bumper stickers
• Turn off or ask to change TV in public places if it’s on Fox

Silence isn’t an option. Freedom requires active, personal responsibility. 

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