Join politically motivated locals who regularly use Indivisible’s guide in penning letters and signs. Write or make mail art to whomever you want – it feels good and is tangible action. We are always interested in new resources and addresses.
It’s the final push toward Nov. 6th. It’s a landmark moment, but not the end of what we do with pens, paper, and stamps. I want to thank everyone who is coming out, from those who are new to PenConnection to those who have be writing with me on varying topics these past two years. Writing to voters is an act of faith and generosity because we don’t see the other side. However we got a rare story last week about how effective our human outreach can be. This was passed on by another Katie Hill organizer:
“i was not able to attend the postcard party because i was out of town at the time, but i wonder if you would like to share one of our experiences today with the group who participated. it was about high noon and we were beginning to wilt when we knocked on a door – middle-aged republican woman who was a regular voter was the description. we weren’t very hopeful. but after a lengthy wait, the door finally opened a crack, lillian gave her introduction and the door opened fully. and then the screen door opened as well so we could see that we were facing a woman with bright blue hair. she didn’t know who katie hill was exactly, but as we began describing her views, she stopped us. “oh, i know”, she said. “i got a postcard about her. that really impressed me. that someone would send me a handwritten postcard about someone running for office.” by the time we left, she had committed to voting for katie and her husband likewise (“i actually fill out his ballot. don’t tell anyone.”) and she was one of two people who offered us something to drink. so every little interaction helps. and if katie hill wins by two votes, i’ll put it down to the blue-haired republican woman, who received a handwritten postcard followed by a knock on the door.
-joan”
Here’s a sample script if you want to get started!
[Side A – Leave room for address, stamp, and post office strip at bottom.]
Be A Cool Voter!
KATIE HILL
for Congress
Nov. 6th
Bring a new Democratic majority to the House!
[Side B]
Dear [fill later]
I’m volunteering to write because the stakes are high and hope you will join us in voting for Katie Hill.
• Katie will work for Medicare for All and fair wages.
• Katie understands the district! She went to local public schools, K – Masters.
• In her career, Katie has made permanent housing real for thousands of homeless vets and families!
THANK YOU!
[your first name]
The Rules
====================================
1. Handwrite your postcards legibly. Slow down if needed.
2. Use/make cards that are inclusive and positive.
3. Stick to the talking points. Paraphrase as needed.
4. Only sign your first name or initials. Do not include your return address.
5. Keep cards looking grassroots-like.
6. Cover addresses before taking photos. If you share digital photos of your cards on social media, always cover voters’ addresses.
7. Ask if you have questions.
8. Have fun! (Or face the consequences!)
We’ll be taking Sunday Nov. 4th off. I encourage people to join the get-out-the-vote effort with calls, canvasing, or other means. Or some self-care if you need it. Thursday’s “Tea & Crumpets” is pretty close to mailing deadlines so we need to discuss if that’s happening.
Contact Ethan Turpin to confirm meeting and for more information at ethanseye@gmail.com or (805) 570-9439.
