This week in political activism: April 24-30

Ready to take action to build the community, state and nation you want, but not sure what to do next? Here are some opportunities for political activism this week.

March to resist climate change

Catch up with activists marching for climate, justice and jobs from Little Creek Camp near Williamsburg to the People’s Climate March in Des Moines. Sign up and camp out along the route.

Take part in the Iowa City or Cedar Rapids version of the People’s Climate March and day of action, taking place nationwide from Des Moines to D.C.

Participate in UI Trans Alliance’s Trans Week of Action

Work with city government for a sustainable Cedar Rapids

Talk with Assistant City Manager Sandi Fowler, Community Development Director Jennifer Pratt, Utilities Director Steve Hershner and Parks and Recreation Director Sven Leff about sustainability efforts the city government has undertaken, and share your ideas and concerns about the way forward.

Vote for North Liberty mayor and city council

Learn about the candidates here or here, then be sure to vote Tuesday at the Rec Center! Polls are open until 8 p.m.

Share your concerns with members of congress

Bring a written, personal message to Sen. Grassley, Sen. Ernst or Rep. Blum to share at a rally outside the courthouse, then send it along with a delegation from the group who will meet with each of the members of congress’ staff. If you can’t make it, send your letters to SwampCabinet@gmail.com and they will be delivered. This event is organized by MoveOn, Indivisible and the Working Families Party.

Meet up with other activists from Indivisible to strategize, then head to Rep. Blum’s office to share your concerns with his staff.

At a previous postcard-writing events, activists packed the Brewlab to write hundreds postcards to elected officials. The event is organized by Johnson County Supervisor Kurt Friese.

Get to know your county supervisors and city council

Join a national conversation about the limits of presidential power

As we approach the 100-day mark of the 45th U.S. presidency, NPR brings member stations around the country together to discuss how much power a president should have. Iowa Public Radio’s Ben Kieffer and NPR reporter Sarah McCammon will facilitate the discussion at this free public event. Come early and explore the library and museum free of charge after 5 p.m. RSVP to attend this event and make your voice heard nation-wide.

Learn how to push for affordable housing policy

Dr. Robin Bachin of the University of Miami shares the strategies of the U of M’s affordable housing initiative, building connections between a university, grassroots organizations, people in need of affordable housing and government agencies to translate activism into actual policy change.

Stand up for women’s rights

Join the National Organization for Women at this monthly meeting. Pay dues by April 26 and bring proof of payment to the meeting to vote in the election.

Remember fallen workers and join the fight for workers’ rights

In the wake of a series of new anti-worker laws, join Iowa City Federation of Labor AFL-CIO, University of Iowa Labor Center and the Center for Worker Justice to celebrate and remember those who have been affected by work-related injuries, and learn what you can do to fight for safer workplaces and injured workers’ rights.

The Hawkeye Area Labor Council AFL-CIO hosts this event to commemorate Workers Memorial Day, featuring speeches by Paul Iversen of the University of Iowa Labor Center, State Senator Rob Hogg and Cedar Rapids Police Chief Wayne Jerman.

Get involved with a political party

Check in with the Linn County Democrats and find out how you can get involved at this monthly meeting.

State Senators Joe Bolkcom and Nate Boulton host a fundraiser to help Democrats take back control of the Iowa State Senate. This event is open to the public, with a $25 suggested donation.

The Veterans Caucus is a group within the Iowa Democratic Party that fights for veterans and their families. Open to all registered Democrats who care about these issues, the meeting will include election of caucus vice chair and guest speakers Sen. Nate Boulton and Rep. Todd Prichard.

Talk politics with the experts

Participate in a panel discussion (and cash bar) with the Gazette’s political staff.

Share your concerns with state legislators

Join state Sens. Bob Dvorsky, Joe Bolkcom and Kevin Kinney and state Reps. Mary Mascher, Amy Nielsen, Vicki Lensing and Dave Jacoby at this public forum on education.

Have coffee and talk policy with state representatives Mary Mascher, Amy Nielsen, Vicki Lensing and Dave Jacoby.

Build connections between allies in the progressive movement

Teamsters Community Action Network (TeamCAN) and Indivisible Iowa host workshops aimed at building “infrastructure and momentum for the long-term stability and success of Iowa’s progressive movement.” Registration begins at 1:15 p.m. Please RSVP.

Have dinner and catch some local tunes to support an organization that aims to link progressive groups across the Midwest. Tickets are $20 for the four-course meal and can be purchased at Beadology, online or by emailing midwesttelegraph@gmail.com.

The author was involved with organizing the Iowa City Climate March and Midwest Telegraph Benefit Dinner and is an active member of the Democratic Party.