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Civic Engagement Plans for 2021

01/25/2021 06:46:29 PM

Jan25

by Rabbi Bonnie Margulis

The events of January 6 have shown us in a profound and deeply disturbing way how fragile democracy is and how hard we must fight to protect it. Our prayers go out to the families of those who lost their lives in the violent attempt to take over our government. Thankfully, that attempt failed. Let us all pray for a smooth transition to the new administration and for the safety of our elected officials.

The Wisconsin Interfaith Voter Engagement Campaign would like to express our thanks and gratitude to our partners at Temple Beth El for all your work and efforts over the past year to get out the vote. Of all the responses we received to our volunteer survey, TBE took the prize for the most volunteers from one congregation and the congregation’s reported total of 1,055.5 hours worked! We appreciate all your ongoing involvement and support.

The work did not stop on Election Day. Our campaign has now pivoted to the vital work of protecting and defending our democratic institutions, to fighting against misinformation and disinformation, and to promoting the fact that this was “the most secure election in American history.” We will continue to speak out against white supremacists and extremists who seek to destroy our democracy.

Despite recent events, we have cause for optimism. After a historic runoff election in Georgia, Rev. Raphael Warnock, pastor of the church where Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King served, will be the first African American senator from Georgia. He is joined by Jon Ossoff, the first Jewish senator from that state. And while the recent violence has been chilling and deeply disturbing, we know that history and demographics are on our side.

Now that we have a new administration, a new Congress, and new people in our state legislature, we must hold them accountable to address the vital issues facing our country, including the pandemic and its economic fallout, immigration, climate change, voter suppression, the need for fair and nonpartisan redistricting, and the need to end the devastating inequities and entrenched racism in our society. Whether you voted for them or not, they are now our representatives in the halls of our local, state, and federal government, and we must ensure that they truly represent us.

Mark your calendars for the elections coming up on February 16 (primary) and April 6. The races include state superintendent of education, alders, county boards, and school boards. These positions have a great impact on our daily lives and are an important opportunity to affect public policy.

We are excited for what 2021 will bring and look forward to continuing the journey with you all.

May 7, 2024 29 Nisan 5784