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For the People Act

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Though most Americans agree it’s wrong to punish someone for sharing their viewpoint (as free speech is highly valued and continually fought for), House Democrats are trying to codify this type of discrimination into law. 

The euphemistically named “For the People Act” will make its debut on the House floor this week, and if passed will expose the names, addresses, and other personal information of every American who generously donates money to an organization, cause, or campaign. 

Though most Americans agree it’s wrong to punish someone for sharing their viewpoint (as free speech is highly valued and continually fought for), House Democrats are trying to codify this type of discrimination into law. 

While the name of the bill (“For the People”) suggests helpful legislation to stop corruption and expose how money is spent in politics, it actually does something far more dangerous — it makes every American a target.

For this reason, it’s important to speak up and out about it. Here are a few suggestions:  

  • A great line to use: “Transparency is for government, privacy is for people.”
  • You can emphasize that you’re actually fighting for the people they claim to be fighting for: “No American should be forced to have their name put on a list for simply making a donation.”
  • And if you want to make a comparison: “Passage of this legislation is like asking every American who donates money to wear a bumper sticker for the cause.”   

Every day we hear stories about discrimination on social media, violence on college campuses, and harassment on street corners if you openly support a cause someone deems “wrong.” Allowing passage of the “For the People Act” will only increase the frequency of intimidation for those who choose to show support with their pocketbook.

B²: Terrorism v. Privacy

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Congress is up against another deadline. This time it cuts across partisan lines as Republicans and Democrats decide whether to reauthorize parts of the USA PATRIOT Act Section 215 or let them expire in June.

Is this mobile phone tapped? -Sarah Culvahouse Mills

The issue is heating up as a federal appeals court ruled last week that the NSA has gone beyond what Congress envisioned when it passed the law in 2001. That, combined with the recent terrorist attack in Garland, means lawmakers have a thorny issue on their hands with lots of messaging traps.

If asked, do you know how to respond to powers of surveillance questions?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here’s the likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Should government have the power to spy on millions of innocent people?”

B²: “Any authority granted to government should balance national security concerns with the privacy of citizens, and we can get there by <insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, DO show concern for safety and privacy. Your answer and tone should reflect America’s long-standing protection of the freedom to work, play, and live without fear.