On Friday, February 17, 2017, Strike4Democracy will coordinate over 100 strike actions across the United States, and beyond, to plan for a series of mass strikes to stand up for America’s democratic principles. As the nation suffers through ICE raids, travel bans, Trump’s mobilization on the border wall, as well as attacks on the rights of workers, women, people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, and our environment, February 17th provides a beacon to those who are searching for a way to protect and defend our shared humanity. People across the country have begun to realize that we must diversify tactics, as protests and marches are only the first step. Strike4Democracy amplifies a new chapter of nonviolent resistance ushered in over the last six weeks.
We call on participants in Strike4Democracy to rise up in their local communities on February 17th to hold events that build towards a series of mass strikes. The first mass strike is planned on March 8, organized by International Women’s Day and The Women’s March. We also anticipate strikes on May Day and a heightening resistance throughout the summer.
Strike4Democracy’s message to the Administration and Congressional leaders is clear:
STOP the authoritarian assault on our fundamental, constitutional rights, the very principles that have truly made America great;
STOP attacking and victimizing women, Muslims, immigrants, racial and ethnic groups, the LGBTQ+ community, working families, journalists, and all who offer criticisms of the Administration’s policies including the U.S. judicial branch;
REALIZE that America’s true strength lies in the values of inclusivity not exclusivity.
As citizens and supporters come together to register their deep dissatisfaction with the President and the current administration’s unconstitutional, inhumane policies and behavior, February 17th marks a heightened effort to provide a beacon for those who share our concerns and who search for a way to “do something.” Together we speak with one voice. We say:
NO to attacks on our marginalized communities
NO to attacks on the sovereignty of indigenous peoples
NO to attacks on constructive critics within and outside government
NO to attacks on our constitutionally guaranteed rights
NO to attacks on our environment
NO to attacks on working families
NO to attacks on public education