We the People Wednesdays Action for April 15

ACTION 1:

On March 31, the Trump administration announced the largest forced purge of a federal land management agency in American history.  The Forest Service headquarters is being uprooted from DC and moved to Utah.  All 10 regional offices are being closed.  57 research stations across 31 states are being shut down.  15 political appointees will replace the entire regional leadership structure.  Some companies, like Pagagonia, REI, and Columbia Sportswear, have spoken out publicly against these changes.  Others, like LL Bean, have been silent.  We’re writing to LL Bean’s CEO asking the company to take a public stand.

Write to LL Bean CEO Stephen Smith.  Adapt this sample text:

Dear Mr. Smith,

  L. L. Bean must speak out publicly to oppose the Trump administration’s plans to dismantle the US Forest Service.

Sincerely,

<your name, city, state>

Mr. Stephen Smith

L.L. Bean

15 Casco St.

Freeport, ME 04033

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ACTION 2:

Several amateur social media influencers and professional journalists broke the story last week of allegations of sexual misconduct by US Rep and California gubernatorial race frontrunner Eric Swallwell.  Within days, Swallwell’s indignant denials evolved into suspending his election campaign and resigning from Congress.   These bold investigators demonstrated the power of a free press to exercise checks within our flawed democratic system.  San Francisco Chronicle reporter Sophia Bollag was among the journalists who brought national attention to this story.

Write to thank Sophia Bollag for her bold investigative reporting.  Adapt this sample text:

Dear Ms. Bollag,

  Thank you for your investigative reporting on Eric Swallwell that showed how a free press can overcome abuses of power.

Sincerely,

<your name, city, state>

Ms. Sophia Bollag

The SF Chronicle

901 Mission St.

San Francisco, CA 94103