On a frigid winter weekend, the City welcomed 20 monks who are walking for peace from Texas to Washington, D.C. The venerable monk Bhikkhu Pannakara gave a stirring address in front of the NC State Capitol building reminding us to take care of our loved ones and neighbors — to show love, compassion and respect to one another. On these cold & challenging days, we need that message more than ever.
Cold nights activate Raleigh’s White Flag Shelter network which provides a warm place to sleep as well as meals. Below-freezing temperatures mean places like The Bryant Center open to provide emergency overnight shelter for people who would otherwise be unsheltered in Wake County. These efforts run by non-profit organizations require staffing, supplies, meals and space grounded in dignity and care. Please support them with a donation or volunteer if you can!
Snow and ice conditions also mean some folks struggle to get out of their homes and access food, medical care, and other needs. If you can de-ice your neighbor’s sidewalk or shovel snow, that’s another great way to care for our community. Most of us always appreciate a kind word or just a simple check-in. Ask what your neighbor needs.
The challenges of the national political climate continue. I’m heartened by how Minnesotans are taking care of one another, but still concerned by the chaos and violence caused by federal agents in American cities. Call your U.S. Senators and Congressional representative to let them know your concerns. When I called this week, I asked for the following:
- No masks on immigration officers; Require body cameras and visible identification
- End random immigration sweeps
- Require judicial warrants for stop and searches
- Require immigration officers to follow the same use-of-force standards as community law enforcement
- Independent investigation of the two fatal shootings in Minneapolis
Make your calls today, it takes 5 minutes!
Senator Thom Tillis: DC Office – (202) 224-6342 & Raleigh – (919) 856-4630
Senator Ted Budd: DC Office – (202) 224-3154 & Raleigh – (984) 349-5061
Congresswoman Deborah Ross: DC Office – (202) 225-3032 & Raleigh – (919) 334-0840