Our Postcard Campaign: Thank Judges and Lawyers for Standing Up for Democracy
An independent judiciary is critical to the defense of a democratic country. Since Congress has abdicated its responsibility to counter the whims of the corrupt executive branch, we need the judiciary to stand up now more than ever. Though it cannot singlehandedly prevent our slide into authoritarianism, it can slow the Administration substantially, and give the public (us) time to organize and shift the discourse.
The justices and lawyers standing up for democracy and the Constitution are under increasing threats, politically – in their careers, and even physically. These threats extend to their families. They are painted as "rogue," "overreaching," “activists,” and "fanatics" and made to feel isolated.
Everyone talked about crying, crying at work, crying outside of work. I've never heard of so many judges crying. – Nadia Reiman, 868: The Hand That Rocks The Gavel, This American Life
These brave professionals need to know that the public is behind them – that their service is critical and that we appreciate them. The postcard campaign can be done by people who are not ready or able to participate in demonstrations. It is nonpartisan and non-confrontational.
The feedback we have received so far has demonstrated the urgent need to expand this campaign. An attorney representing health professionals against the Administration told us that they received many postcards and were cheered by them, seeing that people care. A federal judge told us that they and their colleagues have been feeling isolated, anxious, and worried lately, but the postcards were a much appreciated reminder that they are not alone.
To date, we have printed approximately 5,000 postcards, and distributed more than 3,500. Postcards can be obtained in the following ways:
Pick up from Noe Valley Books
Email townsquarefordemocracy@gmail.com attn: Ashley
Email contact@indivisiblesf.org attn: Ashley
The updated list of judges and lawyers can be obtained via email or online at the Town Square for Democracy website.
We are in the process of expanding this campaign. If you would like to volunteer, please let us know at one of the email addresses above! If you are a member of the ISF Slack workspace, you can also join us at #judiciary.