TAKE ACTION
CORNER – "FIGHT BACK FRIDAYS" IN HINSDALE
By Carissa Kapcar and Penny Davey, Hinsdale
Concern
Leads to Action
One week after.
Consistently for the 130+ weeks since.
Three to fifteen, more than thirty-five involved.
Too many to remember.
Over 5,000.
One week after.
Consistently for the 130+ weeks since.
Three to fifteen, more than thirty-five involved.
Too many to remember.
Over 5,000.
One week
after the 2017 inauguration, and consistently for the 130+ Fridays since, three
to fifteen concerned citizens have gathered to take action by writing postcards
about too many issues to remember. What has been described as ‘one-part therapy
and two-parts action’ has been a casual, yet powerful, way for like-minded
neighbors, friends, and friends of friends to gather and make an impact. In
fact, the group estimates they have sent over 5,000 postcards.
Attendees
come as they can, spurred forward by a concern over an issue or issues
bothering them most that week. There is no need to RSVP, just show up ready to
go. Each Friday brings a new set of concerns, locally, nationally, and
globally. Views are shared with lawmakers in Springfield and Washington, D.C.
and others. The group has also worked to support local issues, from schools to
candidates. The early morning (7:30-8:15 a.m.) gathering time was established
to accommodate work and school schedules. It is a time for venting, discussion,
and focused action!
Fight
Back Friday grew from spirits stirred during the 2017
Woman’s March. A few acquaintances discovered that they shared a sincere need
to become involved in the change they wanted to see. The group, made up of a
few women, men, and even two young daughters, initially met at a locally owned
coffee shop to direct their concerns via postcards. By the very next week, word
of mouth had spread! The group was too large for the coffee shop and has been
growing and meeting at dining room tables since.
One
wonderful feature of the group is that it is multi-generational with ages
ranging from elementary children, high school students, young parents, up
through retirees. The warmth of these cross generational relationships is
palpable. In fact, the Fight Back group was a very encouraging audience
when one young member bravely shared her school Student Council campaign
speech. The friendships and respect for
one another have grown into occasional evening social gatherings, alliances for
further action including canvasing efforts, town hall meetings, and more.
Recently,
Fight Back launched its first spin-off group in Ohio with a potential
for over 20 enthusiastic attendees.
This
local grassroots group is inspiring as a way to put people’s passion and angst
into action. While channeling concern and using that to take positive steps
forward, Fight Back Friday has built community and made a difference.
This model is easy to duplicate with a starter
set of postcards, addresses and engaged citizens ready to make their voice
heard. Feel empowered to start your own action group!
