u/Agile-Macaroon-1646

The flyer!

Hi again Willpo! (Is it true that Williamsport natives never call it that?? Someone help a transplant out).

I wanted to let the community on here know that Williamsport 50501 is facilitating an upcoming No Kings rally downtown on Saturday 6/27 from 12pm-2pm. The name of this rally is "All of U.S 250". Remember the really big Indivisible No Kings rallies that have been happening nationally/globally for probably the last year? Well, this is one of em!

There will be music, moving stories, chalk and bubbles for kiddos (Or whimsical adults), free art, voter registration help, and a whole lot of information about upcoming actions and events, plus some info on how to get involved locally.

If that doesn't sound up your alley, no worries. But if this DOES sound up your ally, hopefully you'll swing by!

Mobilize: https://www.mobilize.us/mobilize/event/970165/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Williamsport50501

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/williamsport_50501/

Howdy Williamsport! Fair warning that this post is going to get lengthy and is definitely going to get political, so if that's not your jam, no worries, but maybe skip this one (TLDR at the end). BUT if the title interests you, and you're thinking "Damn, I wish there was a way to stay informed and take action against this bullshit like wtf man", then this is most definitely the post for you (I hope).

I'm mostly writing this in response to the frustration I've been seeing on social media and hearing in real life- that certain local governmental representatives (looking at you Terri) seem to be participating in corruption unabashedly, our opinions as a community regarding data center development are being ignored, everyday it seems like we lose more and more local political power as constituents, and NOBODY is doing ANYTHING about it. I agree with every single point- except the last one.

As a Williamsport transplant who's passionate about local government and collective action, I've compiled a list of non-profits, grass roots movements, organizations, and various groups taking action towards some of these community issues.

"So,", I can already hear you saying "sounds too rainbows and sunshine... what's the catch?" Welp, that's just it- these groups can't do good work in the community WITHOUT the community. Volunteering if you can, attending meetings to share good information, raising hell in our representatives public offices if we need to, these are all tangible ways to get involved with others in the community that share your frustrations.

Without further ado, THE LIST!:

Williamsport 50501: A locally ran branch of the national 50501 movement. They focus on collective action like protests, rallies, and community meetings/events. This is the group that hosts the No Kings rallies downtown. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Williamsport50501

Action Together NEPA: Action Together NEPA is a 501(c)(4) organization with hundreds of members and chapters across 19 counties who are dedicated to community action and political advocacy. They protest, host letter writing campaigns, and do a great job holding our bad faith representatives accountable via community actions. They function in Lycoming and Union county, among others. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ActionTogether.NEPA

Lycoming County Young Dems: This is a locally ran branch of the democratic party aiming to engage young folks in government and political action. They are rebuilding their coalition, and are welcoming progressive young folks of all walks, including those who are unhappy with the democratic party and want to see real change. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582222954530

Williamsport Rising: This is a local group dedicated to providing a third space for Williamsport. They provide a physical space to foster equitable community built through art, education, and empowerment. Lots of cool community events. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573361665677

RDA (Responsible Decarbonization Alliance): RDA's mission is to collaborate with nature and each other to find solutions to the climate crisis. Local environmental advocacy group, they're hosting an info sesh for the Muncy data center proposal. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responsibledecarbonization

West Branch Pride: WBP's mission is to engage members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies, a great resource and community for LGBTQ+ folks in Williamsport. They have an event coming up soon! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestBranchPride

YWCA Northeast PA: Their mission is to eliminate racism and empower women in Lycoming County. They have lots of cool programs and ways to volunteer! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ywcancpa

CommUnity Zone: Offering diverse and engaging programming such as the Listening Room and Tech Tutoring in Lewisburg. I know it's outside of Williamsport, but it's a really cool spot! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lewisburgzone/

This isn't an exhaustive list by any means, but I hope it's a good starting point for folks who are interested. And it's important to note that, although lots of these groups have volunteer opportunities and protest and do all that serious stuff, a lot of them also host fun community events. It's a great way to meet cool people, even if you don't have a lot of time to commit.

TLDR; have heard a lot of community frustration recently, made a list of cool groups taking action for people to check out. Some of these groups are hosting events this month btw!