Options for local action June 2-8

Our work continues. This is not just a marathon, but a life’s work to keep pushing for a more just and democratic society. As often as we can, we try to find at least one way to stay engaged every week, and we offer these choices for this week.

1. Urgent Action: Tell the NC legislature to vote no on HB 127 today

This urgent action takes no more than a minute. Democracy NC just sent out an alert that the NC legislature will consider HB 127 this Tuesday. This bill will make it almost impossible for individuals and organizations to help others participate in democracy through the voter registration process. Watauga County has a strong record of carefully and successfully assisting new residents to register. Volunteers could even be charged with a misdemeanor for providing an official registration form! Take action now using the form at this link.

2. Tell Avelo to end their contract with ICE

With a federal administration that fails to honor the principle of innocent until proven guilty, we must apply pressure wherever we can to protect human rights. Deportations by ICE have already violated constitutional rights, removed legal residents, and created humanitarian disasters. Speak out now against one of the private companies making money on human despair--contact Avelo Airlines by phone at 346-616-9500 or by email at support@aveloair.com. Avelo is a small airline including base locations in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington, NC.

Script: Hello, I’m reaching out to object to Avelo Airlines’ recent contract to operate ICE deportation flights. No company that values “Doing the Right Thing” should seek to profit by transporting people away from their families and communities. Until this collaboration ends, I will not book any travel through Avelo.

Mark your calendar:

Tuesday, June 3, 5:30 pm 

The Watauga County Board of Commissioners meets at the Watauga County Administration Building

*We expect a better explanation at this meeting for their plan to cut $10,000 from Hospitality House, less than a year after Hurricane Helene not-so-gently reminded our region that housing isn’t always permanent for anyone.

Friday, June 6 1-7 pm/Saturday, June 7 10 am to 3 pm

Watauga County Friends of the Library has its summer used books sale. Find out more at wataugacountyfol.org

Saturday, June 14 10 am to noon

No Kings Rally in West Jefferson, NC. Register with Indivisible Watauga at https://www.mobilize.us/nokings/event/793144/  and find out more here. 

Saturday, June 28, noon

Boone Pride Parade at noon and Pride Festival 1-6 pm

Happy Pride Month! Love is love.