This is a beginning list of resources developed in partnership with participants in VAN’s Vital Voices civic discussions. We will add to the list as we become aware of new resources.
The bucket list for involved citizens: 76 things you can do to boost civic engagement
Brookings
Social Change Wheel from Minnesota Campus Compact
An easy to digest summary of the ways that one can engage for social change.
Strengthening and Protecting Democracy
Americans of Conscience
To provide tools that encourage engagement to strengthen American democracy and social justice.
Third Act Minnesota
Third Act Minnesota is a community of elders (60 and older) who know our planet and our democracy are increasingly endangered by unjust laws and economic practices. They are committed to harnessing the political and economic power of older generations to change the course of history and leave a better world for generations to come.
5 Calls
Visit the website or download the app on your phone for an easy and effective way to reach your federal elected officials.
Support for Free and Fair Elections
League of Women Voters of Minnesota
Empowering voters and defending democracy through voter education and engagement, advocating for democracy, encouraging civic participation, and supporting local League leaders and members.
Become an Election Judge in Minnesota
Election judges are temporary, paid employees of local election officials trained to handle all aspects of voting at the polling place. Serving as an election judge is a chance to learn about elections and is a great service to the community.
VoteRiders
VoteRiders’ mission is “to eliminate ID barriers to the ballot box so every eligible voter can cast a ballot that counts,” and as such, it opposes this legislation.
ICE Operation Related Supports
Supporting Community During ICE Operations
Minnesota Council on Nonprofits
List of where to donate, trusted media, what you should know about your rights, where to get legal help and other resources.
Stand with Minnesota
Well organized and comprehensive directory of ways to help related to immigration actions in Minnesota.
How to Help: Twin Cities Residents
List of how to help from Naomi Kritzer, Twin Cities Author
Supporting Immigrant-Owned Restaurants: A Guide
This list from Minnesota Monthly will get you started if you are interested in supporting immigrant-owned restaurants in our community.
How to find a Signal Group?
Signal is a free app available on your phone. It is different from other messaging apps in that it is owned by a nonprofit and funded by donations rather than a large corporation. It uses end-to-end encryption, so the parent company cannot read the messages. Signal does not store the messages as other apps do. Signal has been used to organize neighbors related to immigration and other actions.
From Naomi Kritzer:
If you don’t have Signal, download it and sign up. If you’re on Signal but use your legal name, change it. (“But you just said it’s legal to be a constitutional observer!” Yes! But ICE is harassing people who are doing this; make it harder for them to harass you. Also, it’s the norm in these communities and people will helpfully remind you not to use your legal name, over and over. Just use your made-up name.)
Find your local Signal group (there should be one for planning, one for Rapid Response.) If you’re in Minneapolis, intake is through Defend the 612. … [T]he fastest option is to find someone in your immediate neighborhood who can just give you the link to your local group.