Photo from Pride 2017 by Doug Porter
It’s been a rough summer, what with the ongoing march toward fully establishing Trumpistan. For instance…
A dozen Russian intelligence officers were indicted for stealing the DNC emails, and along with plenty of revealed evidence there were (yet-to-be-indicted) American traitors willing to work with them. The latest round of charges seems to be based entirely on not-human intelligence sources, meaning the Justice Department figured out a way to mask much of the electronic intelligence source material. (More on that in a future column)
The announcement of a Supreme Court nomination ordered up by billionaire theocrats who’ve figured out how to exploit the biases and shortcomings of the political system. I suppose it’s just coincidence the ConfirmKavanaugh web domain was purchased in February 2017. Or that the Federalist society’s Leonard Leo, who believes homosexuality is immoral, is the guy in the Trump administration orchestrating support for the confirmation process.
The American Civil Liberties Union says in court documents they’ve not been able to verify the Trump administration’s claim that nearly five dozen children had been returned to their parents.
In its filing, the ACLU also accused immigration officials of compelling some parents to pay for travel. One parent, the ACLU said, was told to wire $1,900 to Western Union to cover reunification costs, while another had to assume the cost of a plane ticket after being told a flight had been purchased for the child. In addition, the ACLU said, some migrants “possibly” were asked to pay for DNA tests, but it didn’t provide details.
One parent, the ACLU said, was left alone by Immigration and Customs Enforcement at a bus stop with her children, including a 6-month-old baby. Another was transported through a series of ICE centers in New Jersey and Michigan without the parent’s attorney being notified beforehand. The lawyer also was blocked from attending the reunification, according to the filing.
Federal officers at the border are now empowered to be judge, jury, and executioner for migrants who show up at legal crossings and request asylum. A stated fear of gang violence or domestic violence, the validity of which used to be decided by judicial officials, now is a reason to deny entry, regardless of the circumstances.
***
All is not lost, however. A hunger strike in San Ysidro, a big star-powered event associated with ComicCon, and an ongoing campaign urging Democrats to divert past political contributions from private prison companies to immigration advocates are all indications of further persistence by the resistance. (Todd Gloria, Toni Atkins, Lorena Gonzalez and the State Democratic party have all been persuaded to do the right thing.)
As we survey the admittedly depressing landscape of politics in this country, this weekend provides the opportunity to observe some of the accomplishments of the past few decades by activists and allies in the LBGTQ movement.
San Diego Pride festivities have grown from a small grassroots march for equal rights in the 1970s into the largest civic event in the region, with activities spanning a full week. The organizers of San Diego Pride have donated over 2.5 million dollars to LGBTQ-serving nonprofits and runs multiple year-round education, advocacy, and community service programs.
This year’s theme is Persist With Pride, a slogan that should serve to remind all of us of the long and winding road we’re traveling.
Fernando Z. Lopez San Diego Pride Executive Director Photo by Byron Morton
From the SD Pride blog:
Over the last year, our diverse communities have been burdened by the brunt of a rise in hate, violence, and political attacks; we’ve been here before. We have seen leadership in this country denigrate and discriminate against entire segments of society with name calling, lies, and policy changes that rip apart our families and deny us basic dignity; we’ve seen this before. We are well aware of the increasing threats to our employment, voting rights, access to health care, and even attempts to prevent us from receiving lifesaving services and care, giving many a license to discriminate against the most vulnerable of us; we’ve lived through this before.
The road to justice and liberation has been long, and many of us are tired, but we also hear the call to press forward. I have no doubt that together we are stronger. As each generation learns from one another, each community brings forward its support, each mind brings forward its brilliance, and we together breathe deep and lean into the struggle. For these reasons and all that we will collectively bring to that journey, we are proud to announce that this year’s Pride theme is “Persist with Pride.”
This year you will be asked to lift your voice, to volunteer, and to vote. I hope you will all answer that call, as together we all persist with pride.
Get your event listed: I try to list the next 10 days or so of mostly non-commercial events I think our readers might find of interest. I source my material from social media listings and press releases. Club meetings will be listed IF there are speakers and they are open to the public.
Democratic Candidates: I will list all non-fundraising events open to the general public. A listing does not imply endorsement. Events that are listed on Facebook as ‘private’ or sold-out are not listed. In cases where there are competing but similar events or campaigns of the progressive persuasion, I do my best to list everything.
A couple of favors, por favor. Facebook no longer allows us to advertise this calendar because it’s considered “political” content. (Well, duh. At least we’re not making stuff up.) So please “share” the Activist Calendar. Often. And gang, please feel free to copy this info for your newsletters. BUT it sure would be nice if you’d acknowledge where it came from. This thing is a lot of work to put together. Thanks.
Ongoing
San Diego #Hungry4Freedom Hunger Strike
Thru July 23
311 Athey Avenue (San Ysidro)
For More Information
We seek justice, we seek humanity, we seek to live in a world where institutions of hatred towards other human beings is not the norm. The strength of this hunger strike will not be determined by the amount of days the strikers last, but by the power of the people during those days. This is why we have one final plea to all those watching this, especially those in other cities and regions of the country, join this strike. Be in solidarity with not just us, but with the thousands of families suffering due to this system’s failure to provide justice. Let’s show the world that we, as humans, can not stand for such barbarism and cowardliness. Let’s fight for the world we want to see. #Hungry4Freedom
July 13
Danza Azteca and Vigil for Those Murdered by Border Patrol
Friday, July 13, 8pm
311 Athey Avenue (San Ysidro)
For More Information
Hosted by San Diego Starving For Justice Hunger Strike
Come and honor those murdered by Border Patrol with the #Hungry4Freedom Hunger Strikers. We are here striking in order to give further awareness to the injustices of our immigration, criminal (in)justice, and political system, but more importantly, we believe that we will win our demands to provide some damn justice in our world today – BUT, we need your help. We hope to see you here in solidarity with all those suffering due to this inhumane system.
San Diego Trans Pride 2018
Friday, July 13, 1pm
Balboa Park
Sixth & Prado
For More Information
Pride season is coming! Please come out and join us in celebrating Transgender, Gender Non-Conforming, and Gender Expansive folks of ALL walks of life!
This will be a FREE EVENT, open to RESPECTFUL individuals wanting to celebrate their gender expression however they choose in a community environment that is free of judgment/criticism.
There will be entertainment, food, games, and new friends. Information tables will be available for folks to find resources to aid them in various aspects of living and existing, and we will end the day with a Trans Visibility March to the Spirit of Stonewall Rally.
Spirit of Stonewall Rally
Friday, July 13, 6pm
Hillcrest Pride Flag
University Avenue & Normal Street
For More Information
Hosted by San Diego Pride
Pride celebrations everywhere trace their heritage to the evening of June 28, 1969, when patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City said “No more!” to police harassment. That protest has grown to annual events held in major cities throughout the world.
In San Diego, our first rally was held in 1975. San Diego Pride’s Spirit of Stonewall Rally is a time to recognize and honor leaders who are working hard to preserve our gains and meet the many challenges still facing our community.
Come join us as cheering crowds and energetic speakers kick off San Diego Pride Weekend!
Sierra Club Film Night: Inhabit; A Permaculture Perspective
Friday, July 13, 6:30pm
8304 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard
For More Information
A different way of relating to the Earth, permaculture is a design method that offers an ecological lens for solving issues related to agriculture and many other facets of life. Focused mostly on the Northeastern and Midwestern regions of the U.S., Inhabit provides an intimate look at permaculture peoples and practices as they present a diversity of responses to local and global challenges from issues of food, water, and medicine to governance, economy and culture.
July 14
San Diego Pride Parade
Saturday, June 14, 11am
Starts at Hillcrest Pride Flag, ends in Balboa Park.
For More Information
Hosted by San Diego Pride
The annual San Diego Pride Parade the largest single-day civic event in the region, and is among the largest Prides in the United States, attracting over 200,000 cheering supporters of the LGBTQ community!
Come show your Pride on Saturday, July 14, 2018 at 11:00 am. The parade begins at the Hillcrest Pride Flag at University Ave. and Normal St., proceeds west on University Ave., turns south on 6th Ave., turns left onto Balboa Dr. and ends at Laurel St. – where you’ll find the entrance to the Pride Festival!
Boo Bonnie with Pride!
Saturday, July 14, 11am-2pm
San Diego Pride Parade
For More Information
Hosted by Not Dumanis
Now more than ever it is time to send Republicans packing! San Diego says no to intolerance, and we can’t pass up the chance to reminded you:
Bonnie Dumanis is a Republican and her leader is a racist. That is a fact! Please plan to Boo Bonnie and turn your back on the bigoted party that she represents when you see her parading by in Hillcrest on July 14th.
Come show your pride and your strength. The parade begins at the Hillcrest Pride Flag at University Ave. and Normal St., it proceeds west on University Ave., turns south on 6th Ave., turns left onto Balboa Dr. and ends at Laurel St.
Jewish Voice for Peace Film Event “Knowledge is the Beginning”
Saturday, July 14, 1:30pm
Friends of SDPL University Community Branch
4155 Governor Drive
For More Information
This documentary shows how Daniel Barenboim established the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra with the late Palestinian writer Edward Said to bring together young musicians from across the political divide in the Middle East. Their goal: a better future.
July 15
Pride World Forum
Sunday, July 15, 10:30am
San Diego History Center
1649 El Prado #3
For More Information
Hosted by San Diego History Center
Join us for a forum convening LGBTQI movement leaders from around the world! LGBTQI leaders that are part of the Department of State’s International Visitors Leadership Program will participate in a panel discussion as attendees learn about their work and human rights issues around the globe. The panel will include select visitors from the listed countries below.
10:30 am Doors Open
11:00 am Panel Presentation
12:00 pm Mix & Mingle
Free guided tours of the LGBTQ+ San Diego: Stories of Struggles and Triumphs will begin at noon. Participants are still being finalized, but we expect delegates to be in attendance from the following countries: Bangladesh, Belgium, Bulgaria, Finland, France, Israel, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Poland, Singapore, Turkey, Vietnam
July 16
Protest Mickey Kasparian and Demand an Election!
Monday, July 16, 5pm
UFCW Local 135
2001 Camino del Rio South
For More Information
We Stand With Sandy, Isabel and Anabel
Due to the outspoken members of Locals 135 and 1167, the merger was called off! But the fight to remove Kasparian remains! So we’re still going show up to protest that dirty rat!
Instead of holding an election like the bylaws state he tried to merge UFCW Local 135 with Local 1167. This would’ve allowed him to skip an election this year, one in which he is likely to be voted out. Now that the merger has been stopped, he has no choice but to call for an election before the year ends.
We, as friends of Las Tres Hermanas and as concerned members of San Diego’s labor movement, oppose any attempt by Kasparian to remain. We encourage Local 135 members to attend, meet, and formulate a plan on Monday to oppose Kasparian’s reelection as president of the Local.
No Internment Centers At USMC base Camp Pendleton EVENT CANCELLED
Monday, July 16, 5pm
Corner of South Mission and Ammunition Roads (Fallbrook)
Youth Organizing for Unity
Monday, July 16, 7pm
Joyce Beers Community Center
3900 Vermont Street
For More Information
‘March for Our Lives’ was just the beginning!
Linking to ongoing organizations & organizing is key This summer; Join other Activist Youth in San Diego
Together we can build an intersectional movement; for peace with justice & equity. The NRA & Trumpsters are undermining democracy, igniting racism, tax breaks for billionaire$. Youth are saying “A new world is possible”
How do we unite and interconnect this movement into the core of all our causes? -How do we advance youth leadership within other struggles for social justice? How do we assure that our movement will be strong, multi-racial with gender equity? Had Enough? Ready to organize to end violence in the US and abroad? Corporate capitalism is at the root of a society that degrades human relationships with environmental, racial, gender, LGBTQ and immigrant intolerance. Unite!
San Diego City Council Meeting on Short-Term Rentals
Monday, July 16, Noon
202 C Street
For More Information
Please show up to the Council’s July 16th hearing, or contact your Councilmember, and ask them to protect our communities, our schools, and our dwindling housing supply by rejecting Mayor Faulconer’s reckless Short-Term Vacation Rentals proposal.
Starla Lewis – America the Great: An Experience in Diversity
Monday, July 16, 6:30pm
Elijah’s Restaurant
7061 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard
For More Information
Hosted by Democratic Woman’s Club of San Diego County
Following up on the inspiring Cultural Diversity Workshop training last Saturday, organized by the Martin Luther King Jr Democratic Club, the Democratic Woman’s Club of San Diego County will host Professor Emeritus Starla Williams. Her presentation, “America the Great: An Experience in Diversity” is an opportunity to move beyond politics that divide us and create politics that bring us together. Collectively, we will address critical issues that impact our lives and the future of our country, developing skills to be more conscious, competent, connected and comfortable when addressing topics related to differences. Bring your questions, concerns, experiences, expertise and friends to share in conversations that can create unity in our diverse communities at home, at work, and in the world!
For forty years, Starla Lewis has committed herself to bridging, unifying and empowering multi-culturally diverse communities. Department Chairwoman at Mesa for eleven years and professor of Black Studies at San Diego Mesa College for twenty years, Lewis is also a six-time recipient of the Mesa College Teacher of the Year Award.
Besides being a poet, author, professor, chairwoman, mentor, mother, and life coach, Lewis is also the founder of Celebration of Everlasting Love and Life (C.E.L.L.), a consulting firm working to help people discover their full potential, regardless of race, gender, or ethnicity. Lewis believes in loving herself just the way she is, and teaching others to love themselves as well.
July 18
Forum on the Yes! for a Better San Diego initiative
Wednesday, July 18, 6:30pm
Elijah’s Restaurant
7061 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard
For More Information
Hosted by San Diego County Democrats for Environmental Action
The Yes! for a Better San Diego initiative, would increase the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) in order to generate $6.4 billion to fund an expansion of the San Diego Convention Center, programs to address homelessness, and road repairs.
Our panel of esteemed guests will include Carol Kim (Political Director for the San Diego County Building and Construction Trades Council), Robert Gleason (President and CEO of Evans Hotels), Michael McConnell (named by Voice of San Diego as 2017’s ‘Voice of the Year’ for his work combating homelessness), and Cory Briggs (Environmental and Public Interest Attorney.
Protest Horse Racing – Opening Day Del Mar
Wednesday, July 18, 10:30am
Del Mar Thoroughbred Club
2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard
For More Information
This begins another racing season here at Del Mar. We will continue to be there for the horses. This is the opening day protest
¡California Latinas Presente! San Diego Advocacy Day
Wednesday, July 18, 9am-4pm
Planned Parenthood Action Fund of the Pacific Southwest
1075 Camino del Rio South
For More Information (RSVP)
Hosted by California Latinas for Reproductive Justice
San Diego Latina/x Advocacy Day is a community advocacy event that invites Latinas/xs and allies to learn more about reproductive justice and the California policy process. Participants will dive into a range of reproductive justice policies affecting the Latina/x community and learn how to speak to legislators to influence the policy process and make lasting change.
We will start our morning with a policy storytelling training and then break into groups to prepare for afternoon in-district visits with State legislators. Breakfast and Lunch will be provided. We are asking participants to please contribute a $10 registration fee to support with program logistics.
July 19
SD Progressive Alliance July Public Meeting
Thursday, July 19, 6:30pm
3402 Park Boulevard #1
For More Information
We are focused on developing a system of evaluating the political contributions that local candidates are accepting for their campaigns. There is a difference between the corporate-comfortable Dems and the grassroots Progressive’s who run campaigns free of corrupting corporate dollars.
We have made good strides in the last two working meetings, join us on July 19th to hear about the results and help join the effort.
Stand Up For Housing Justice & Rent Control!
Thursday, July 19. 5:30pm
Olivewood Clubhouse
541 East 24th Street (National City)
For More Information
Hosted by National City Families for Fair Housing
As we prepare ourselves to get out the vote in November to pass our Rent Stabilization and Just Cause initiative, it is important we know the history of housing discrimination and segregation in our country. Join us and your neighbors in learning more about this and next steps to be part of the victory for National City families in November!
We are building a strong base of tenants to make sure we get everyone out to vote in November to pass rent control in National City and the Affordable Housing Act statewide! Dinner will begin at 5:30, Presentation at 6.
Water Resilience in San Diego
Thursday, July 19, 6pm
Amplified Ale Works
4150 Mission Boulevard
For More Information (RSVP)
Hosted by San Diego Green Drinks
We’re in a heat wave, and California is gearing up for another dry summer. How is San Diego prepared to handle our water issues?
We’re excited to welcome Risa Baron, Principal Public Affairs Representative with the San Diego County Water Authority, to discuss how San Diego prepared for the last drought and the next one. We’ll also dive into long-term efforts by the Water Authority to ensure a safe and reliable water system for the region through diversification.
Risa Baron is a highly motivated and award-winning professional with over 20 years’ experience and success in public affairs, community relations and communications with a focus on energy, water and transportation issues. Her expertise is in community outreach, strategic planning and project management and excels in forging partnerships, building relationships, and public speaking.
July 21
Hope and Freedom Dance-a-thon
Saturday, July 21, 9am
Centro Cultural de La Raza
2004 Park Boulevard
For More Information
Hosted by International Network of Hearts and Centro Cultural de la Raza
An exciting dance-a-thon to raise funds for INH and Casa del Jardin, a safe house for child survivors of human trafficking. This event will include Zumba, U-jam, Latin Rhythm and other dance/fitness forms. The cost will be $10 per person. You can donate or pay your admission fee on EventBrite OR our GoFundMe campaign page
Flip the 49th: Swing Left Academy
Saturday, July 21, 8:30am
5145 Avenida Encinas, Suite I (Carlsbad)
For More Information (RSVP)
Hosted by Flip the 49th Neighbors in Action
Join us on Saturday, July 21st at 8:30am for a powerful livestream volunteer training session.
We will be joined online by volunteers throughout the country as we learn core organizing skills that will help us win back the House with legendary organizer and former MoveOn National Field Director Matt Ewing. You won’t want to miss it!
We will use our new skills to use with a follow up Get Out the Vote neighborhood walk on Sunday, July 22nd at 11am.
Protest HORSE Racing at DEL MAR
Saturday, July 21, 11:45am
Del Mar Turf Club
2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard
For More Information
Another cruel season of racing horses. This is the first protest after opening day. There will be protests every weekend.
Please make homemade signs. We will meet inside the parking lot at the entrance to the track
July 22
America: ALL Are Welcome!
Sunday, July 22, 3pm
Embarcadero Marina Park North
500 Ketner Avenue
For More Information
Hosted by Pop Culture Hero Coalition
JOIN
• ACLU
• FAMILIES BELONG TOGETHER
• AMNESTY
• UNITED NATION ASSN SAN DIEGO
• CENTER FOR AMERICAN-ISLAMIC RELATIONS
• INDIVISIBLE
• SAN DIEGO REFUGEE FORUM
• PARTNERSHIP FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF NEW AMERICANS
AND
• SUPERHEROIRLWith Music by THE RESIZTERS!THE WORLD IS WATCHING SAN DIEGO DURING COMIC-CON
STAND WITH US for JUSTICE FOR ALL!“In a place where beings from all galaxies and universes are welcome, we rally to affirm that here in America we respect the dignity and worth of every human being, and all are welcome.”
July 23
Rally to Stop RV Ticketing!
Monday, July 23, 9:30am
Mission Bay South Shores Boat Launch
For More InformationHosted by San Diego Housing Emergency Alliance
On Thursday, July 26th, there will be a hearing in the Federal Class Action Lawsuit filed on behalf of homeless and disabled people who live in their vehicles due to lack of housing. The hearing concerns Plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction which seeks a court order to stop the ticketing and impounding of vehicles during the time the litigation is pending. The ticketing being challenged is under two City ordinances: the ordinance prohibiting habitation in one’s vehicle and a second ordinance prohibiting all nighttime parking of RVs anywhere on City streets and lots from between 2:00 and 6:00 a.m.
Save the Date
Call to Action if Trump Fires Mueller
March for Truth—an organization that is working with dozens of advocacy groups to organize rapid response protests has partnered with MoveOn.org, Public Citizen, Indivisible and many others to prepare emergency ‘Nobody is Above the Law‘ rallies that will happen directly following the firing of the special counsel should it occur. There are already events in 800+ cities and communities scheduled across the country—more than 300,000 people are prepared to take to the streets.
By firing Mueller or Rosenstein, the president would trigger a full-fledged constitutional crisis by asserting that he is above the law. The hours following the firing will determine whether he is proved right.
Local Rallies Starting Today at 5pm & Continuing Daily Thereafter
Bring Pots and Pans – Make Noise
Call to Action if Trump Fires Mueller
US District Court Southern District of California
330 West Broadway (Downtown)
Nobody is Above the Law Rally
Westfield North County Mall (Escondido)
Nobody is Above the Law Rally
Collier Park (Ramona)
Nobody is Above the Law Rally
Carlsbad Premium Outlet Mall
Other Stuff to Do
Join the ACLU’s People Power: People Power is, at its core, a grassroots member-mobilization project. Through People Power, the ACLU will engage volunteers across the country to take action when Trump or his administration attempt to enact unconstitutional policies or trample on people’s constitutional rights. By mobilizing in defense of our civil liberties, volunteers will build local communities that affirm our American values of respect, equality, and solidarity.
Sign Up for Indivisible. All the cool kids are doing it. (Really!)
San Diego Democratic Party Calendar Includes business meetings, chartered club meetings, voter registration events, election information, holidays, and other events of interest to Democrats.
SUBSCRIBE! IT’S FREE!
Looking for some action? The Weekly Progressive Calendar is published every Friday in this space, featuring Demonstrations, Rallies, Teach-ins, Meet Ups and other opportunities to get your activism on.
You can now get the Weekly Progressive Calendar delivered to your inbox every Friday. And it’s Free! Subscribe and get an email every time a new article in this series is posted!
I read the Daily Fishwrap(s) so you don’t have to… Send your hate mail and ideas to DougPorter@SanDiegoFreePress.Org Check us out
Doug Porter
Latest posts by Doug Porter (see all)
- Last Call. Last Column. - December 14, 2018
- Which Presidential Candidate Will You Support in 2020? - December 13, 2018
- Mounting the Assault on Big Gay and Other Drivel From SDSU’s Minimum Wage Scrooge - December 12, 2018
