September 25, 2023

Hello Tim,

In this newsletter SWWAP shares news of three exciting Events lined up for early October. SWWAP also offers an action alert for all of those who want to ensure a vibrant democracy for Wisconsin.

CELEBRATE LABOR & JOE HILL'S BIRTHDAY SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

 Fermat's Last Theater presents "Joe Hill - Alive as You and Me" - An evening of song, stories and solidarity, on Saturday October 7, at the Historic Old Schoolhouse, located at 110 N. Second Street in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin. 

Joseph Hillström was born in Sweden in 1879, the Mount Horeb Theater presentation will correspond with his October 7, birthday.  Hillström immigrated to the United States in 1902. His naive idealism about American society were soon shattered by the harsh conditions and exploitation of immigrant workers that he witnessed. He became known as Joe Hill; a talented song writer became an organizer for the International Workers of the World and became labor’s troubadour. Joe Hill’s fame rocketed after he was executed in the Utah State Penitentiary for which he was quite possibly framed by company bosses. Today we celebrate his songs and his cause, which can be summed up his famous song, There Is Power in A Union. 

Singing Joe's Hill’s songs and telling his story will be veteran folk singer and actor, Tom Kastle - see tomkastle.com for details on Tom's broad resume – (besides his acting and singing credits, Tom is a tall ship captain). All are invited to this free multi-media event for an evening celebrating one of labor’s champions, Joe Hill, (donations will be gladly accepted). The event is sponsored by the Southwest Wisconsin Area Progressives, (SWWAP).

SWWAP proudly brings this acclaimed theatre presentation to the historic Old District #1 Schoolhouse in downtown Mount Horeb. Come early for a great seat.

SEE https://www.facebook.com/events/1462113764607789/ for more information on this event.

TWO AWARD WINNING DOCUMENTARIES ON TAP FOR OCTOBER!

SWWAP is teaming up with 350 Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Farmers Union, and the Farley Center for Peace, Justice and Sustainability to screen two important films. Both films deal with sustainable agriculture practices and the climate change crisis. Both films will be screened at the Mount Horeb Community Center, and both will have discussion opportunities after the screenings.

See https://www.facebook.com/events/609951981055097 and https://www.facebook.com/events/825331275982386 for more information on these events.

TAKE ACTION!

Partisan Pseudo “Iowa Model” Redistricting Plan Rushed Through the Wisconsin Assembly is Deeply Flawed and Unsupportable.  Much like putting the fox in charge of the henhouse, Assembly Bill 415 is a disingenuous political stunt. Read more on this faux fix to redistricting reform here.

Responding to Recent Wisconsin Assembly Floor Session on Redistricting in Wisconsin

1. Here are immediate actions you can take to make your voice heard:Continue to Contact Your State Legislators: Encourage them to support a bipartisan approach to fair maps, one that ensures fairness and transparency. Reject the Assembly's timeline–we need to take more time to pass real reform and not rush this important process. For the last 12 years, Vos and the GOP have rejected every attempt to even consider non-partisan redistricting reform, not even a public hearing.
2. Demand Public Hearings: Let us in! We need a voice at the table in making real reform that results in fair maps and does not allow for partisan gerrymanders. This bill will be presented to the Senate so public hearing opportunities are still possible. Use the hearing to voice your concerns and demand fair representation for all Wisconsinites.
3. Be Vocal: Let your voice be heard on this crucial issue by sending letters to the editor (see templates below). Share your thoughts and concerns about the flawed redistricting bill and express why we need equal and accurate representation.
4. Vote!: Encourage voter registration and civic engagement -- a strong voter turnout is essential for fair representation.
5. ***
6. Continue reading: Responding to Recent Wisconsin Assembly Floor Session on Redistricting in Wisconsin

BE HEARD! CLICK LINK BELOW

An Ode to Redistricting

Want to help support your local progressive organization?

Please consider a donation to SWWAP.

or

Send check made out to SWWAP to:

SWWAP Treasurer, Carol Larsen

9593 Overland Rd, Mount Horeb WI, 53572

For more information on funding opportunities, contact swwap@mhtc.net.