As the pandemic disrupts our lives and our livelihoods, so many of us are feeling unprecedented stresses of figuring out how to pay the bills, keep our homes, and stay safe physically and emotionally. You are not alone. I'm working with LA Forward's volunteer teams to do everything we can to support people directly AND to create structural change that allows everyone to live in dignity.
One way to create change is by sharing our own stories of struggle so we make clear our personal challenges are part of systemic problems and demand systemic solutions.
So we invite you to email us with notes on how the pandemic has touched your life. We especially want to know:
* If you — or someone you know — has used the LA Forward Crisis Response Guides. We're constantly working to make sure these are useful and hearing from you helps.
* If you are facing new housing challenges when it comes to your housing. Job loss is making it difficult for many millions of Americans to pay rent and mortgages. Is your landlord harassing you? Is your bank refusing to allow you real mortgage forbearance, where you get defer payments without any penalties/interests/balloon payments?
If you have a story, please message us by replying this email. We will work with you to find the right platform, whether that's an online video, a media article, or with an elected official. We will always respect your privacy (including anonymity, if you wish) and only share information you're comfortable disclosing.
While each of us experience this crisis in unique ways, common themes persist and are made real through personal stories. Thank you for sharing your story so that we can advocate for shared solutions.
Another way to create change is using community organizing to build people power that can hold elected officials accountable.
We are launching a neighborhood-based effort — to bring us together (virtually for now) in local groups to build community and power. You can get started by joining us for two upcoming events: an Organizing 101 workshop and our May Monthly meeting, featuring a special guest. More details soon.
* Wednesday, May 13, 8 PM – Organizing 101 workshop
Organizing is a buzzword. But does it mean? And how is it different from activism or advocacy in other forms? Join this virtual to find out. You'll leave with a working understanding of what it is, what it takes, and your own sense of how you might fit into organizing work in Los Angeles.
Please RSVP at https://www.losangelesforward.org/calendar/2020/5/13/organizing-101
* Sunday, May 17, 3 PM – Monthly Meeting, feat. Councilmember Mike Bonin
For our May meeting, we’ll be joined by a special guest — LA City Councilmember Mike Bonin — who's been a champion for social justice and has been a leader in supporting our agenda on housing, climate, just economic recovery, and more. We’ll also share updates on all our campaigns and give you the opportunity to ask questions and get involved.
Please RSVP: https://www.losangelesforward.org/calendar/2020/5/17/may-monthly-meeting
We look forward to seeing you soon and hearing from you even sooner!