Spring Happenings on the Hill - Iowa & Federal

by Rachel Rupert

As we navigate this dizzying time in American politics, we’re finding it difficult to stay informed, active, and engaged. We don’t have all the answers, but we understand the importance of being in community, standing with the marginalized, and using our voice for change. As we move forward, we feel called to use our position to share reflections & resources with our community. We hope we can empower you to stay engaged, but less overwhelmed. Each quarter we’ll post an ever changing list of things happening on Capitol Hill — both locally and nationally. Plus, links to further reading. We’re coming to understand that this will be a long haul and we want to do our best to protect our mental, physical, and emotional health. We also want the same for you. 

Let’s sustain this movement together.

If you haven’t downloaded it yet, 5 Calls is a fantastic app to get in touch with your reps. You can also find your Iowa legislators here. Calling and emailing our reps is one way to use our voice. Whether it truly makes a change or not, we feel the time spent is worth it in the long run. :)

Below are some of our favorite resources, plus a list of topics sparking our attention. 

Iowa Resources:

Iowa Starting Line: This is one of our favorite landing grounds for Iowa political news. Their website is ever-changing with pertinent information regarding Iowa legislation. 

Iowa Public Radio: For general and political news, check out Iowa Public Radio. They’re an independent non-profit providing free journalism to Iowans. 

Little Village Magazine: If you’re looking for an alternative news and culture magazine, this is it. Find printed copies in our shop, read online, or follow their socials here. 

One Iowa Action: Stay up-to-date with LGBTQIA+ advocacy in Iowa. Sign up for their action alerts here. 

The State-Wide Book Club hosted by Liz from Iowa Starting Line: Connect with over 400+ Iowans on books focused on community care. Plus, receive local action alerts! Join the discord here. 

*We’re an affiliate with Bookshop.org and may earn a commission on the links above*

National level issues that need addressed:

This one’s hard because so much is happening at once. Our best suggestion is to visit 5 Calls to learn about current issues. Then, decide which topics are most important to you and call your reps from there. You can use the sample script provided or write your own. Here’s some tips for best practices. 

We know that involvement on a national level is really challenging, but locally in Iowa or within your own city, you may find better resources to connect with folks who care about the same issues as you. 

A few topics that have Rachel’s attention (last updated 3/27):

Protecting Free Speech: Stop the unlawful ICE detainment of immigrants: (This was updated on 3/26, so if you’re passionate about this and have already called, please call again.) These are lawful resident university students that are being targeted. 

Protecting the Department of Education: This needs no further description. See Emily's list for links. 

Saving the Institute of Museum & Library Services: Americans have loved and relied on public, school and academic libraries for generations. By eliminating the only federal agency dedicated to funding library services, the Trump administration’s executive order is cutting off at the knees the most beloved and trusted of American institutions and the staff and services they offer, including:

  • Early literacy development and grade-level reading programs
  • Summer reading programs for kids 
  • High-speed internet access
  • Employment assistance for job seekers 
  • Braille and talking books for people with visual impairments
  • Homework and research resources for students and faculty
  • Veterans’ Telehealth spaces equipped with technology and staff support
  • STEM programs, simulation equipment and training for workforce development
  • Small business support for budding entrepreneurs

Read the ALA’s full statement here. 

Learn about how this will impact Iowa Libraries here.

A few topics that have Emily’s attention (last updated 3/31):

As a disabled educator, I’m often looking at the intersection of disability justice and the accessibility of knowledge. Here’s what’s swirling in my mind these days:

To learn about how the dismantling of disability rights can be a warning sign for all civil liberties, check out this article. 

 

**April Update: 

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