Proposition Preparedness

This week I became aware that I have a little niggling fear the back of my heart. I listen to people continuously say that it is too difficult to engage with the news or the electoral policies process this year. I understand AND my fear is that disengagement will also will lead to less research into the other parts of the ballot. That could mean real impacts on the lives of our neighbors.

Even though I know people feel very overwhelmed and disillusioned by the electoral system, which continue to shock us on a regular basis with lies and unjust claims. we need to pay attention. As we’ve seen across our nation, the health of our democracy is not determined solely by the top of the ticket. Having elected official farther down who are willing to honor the rule of law is crucial. And, in addition, this year we have some very important ballot measures tied to our values.

And for these we do have information. Reverend Rodney’s justice email on Thursday and Sunday’s upcoming presentation by the League of Women’s Voters will tell us more about our ballots . We are fortunate to we have so much information right at our fingertips from groups including the Unitarian Universalist Justice Ministry, the League of Women Voters and Faith In Action East Bay.

FIAEB, one of our long-term partner organizations, has prepared a pledge which you can sign on Sunday to say that you will vote and/or that you may vote you may also sign that you will vote YES on proposition five and No on Proposition 36. Proposition 5 continues to address our desperate need for housing in the state. Proposition 36 would reverse the games that California has made to reduce mass incarceration and divert money from  critically needed rehabilitation programs and other services to expand our jails once again.

Digging into these Propositions, I have found, is a good antidote for the malaise which this election season has cast upon so many.

Propositions matter. So make use of the many resources and share them with others in your friendship or family circles who also could use these resources .

For those of us who would defend democracy, we have many ways to make a difference in these next two weeks.