Monday, Feb. 20 is Presidents Day, a day set aside to celebrate the lives and achievements of all of America’s presidents. This year, though, the day is obviously a little more charged than usual, based on who's in the White House right now. So, here's an idea: Donate to these organizations this Presidents Day. Even if you only have a few bucks to give, it'll make a big difference for the people who are the most vulnerable under the current administration.
For me, toasting Trump actually makes me feel a little sick, but Presidents Day is happening all the same. Sure, you have the option of staying in bed and pulling the covers over your head; however, you can also choose to use Feb. 20 as a day of action instead. Countless organizations are fighting to protect the rights of refugees, the LGBTQIA community, the disabled, reproductive rights, the environment, and more.
Fighting fascism is hard work, and many organizations are stretched thin with the recent barrage of Trump's policies. Is there an organization that you feel strongly about? For me, it's Planned Parenthood and any group that supports refugees. I honestly couldn't have gotten through my 20s without Planned Parenthood; additionally, I used to live in Portland, Maine, which is a refugee resettlement city. The influx of immigrants positively contributed to the city's culture and economy, proving immigrants are a vital part of our society.
Which group speaks to you? It's time to put your money where your mouth is and openly oppose Trump this Presidents Day by supporting one one of these nonprofits fighting for the causes that need it the most right now.
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Run for Something
Sometimes the only way to change things is to do it yourself. Millennials are the future of America, and that means they are also the future of politics. Run for Something is committed to recruiting passionate people to advocate for progressive values now, and for the next 30 years, with the ultimate goal of building a progressive bench, thus planning a better political future for America.
Think your future is in politics? Consider joining. Even if you don't want to run for office, you can donate to support those who do.
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Sierra Club
Global warming is real, and the Sierra Club is committed to protecting millions of acres of wilderness; helped pass the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act. They lead the fight to move away from the dirty fossil fuels that cause climate disruption, and toward a clean energy economy.
With Trump's current pick, Scott Pruitt, to head the EPA, the Sierra Club's work is more important than ever. I mean, what are we doing all of this fighting for if the planet becomes too toxic to support life?
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National Inclusion Project
The National Inclusion project fights for the rights of disabled children, and lobbies for them to be included by working to bridge the gap that exists between young people with disabilities and the world around them.
Protecting the rights of every marginalized community is key to preserving America's vibrant culture during Trump's presidency.