On January 11, 2025, despite snowy conditions, over 150 individuals gathered in Greenport’s Mitchell Park to advocate for women’s rights and emphasize the importance of empathy, community, and collaborative problem-solving. This event led to the creation of the Southold Community Action Center, which plans to hold monthly meetings on the fourth Friday at 4 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalists of the North Fork’s newly rebuilt meeting house in Southold.
The rally featured speakers, predominantly women from the North Fork, who shared personal experiences on topics such as healthcare, military service, student debt, immigration, and local social justice efforts. Notably, the upcoming presidential inauguration and the nationwide Women’s March scheduled for January 18 were underlying themes, reflecting concerns about potential threats to immigrant communities, women’s rights, and protections for vulnerable populations.
Rev. Natalie Wimberly of Greenport’s Clinton Memorial AME Zion Church opened the event by referencing Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s message that “hope shines bright in the darkest times.” She encouraged attendees to harness their determination to “create new roads to challenge what might be coming” and to “illuminate and eliminate the darkness.”
Patte McManus of the Unitarian Universalists of Southold distributed signs bearing the names of women who have made significant contributions, ranging from historical figures to current activists and local leaders. She highlighted that some local individuals declined to have their names displayed due to fear of repercussions, underscoring the current climate of apprehension. McManus urged the crowd to channel their anger constructively, emphasizing the importance of collective action for future generations.
High school student Alexandria Fulford expressed her desire for a future where she is “celebrated, not tolerated,” advocating for inclusivity across various demographics. Her mother, Tijuana Fulford, founder of the Butterfly Effect Project, spoke passionately about the need for active engagement, stating, “We need each and everyone out here fighting.”
Rosario Rodriguez, a filmmaker and daughter of a Guatemalan immigrant, shared her family’s journey from farm work to educational achievements, illustrating the contributions of immigrants to the community. She noted that two of her father’s cancer doctors are immigrants, reinforcing the integral role immigrants play in various sectors.
Laura Hoch, a teacher and singer with “The Second Hands,” discussed the burden of student debt, noting that U.S. borrowers collectively owe $1.7 trillion. She warned that without public service loan forgiveness, her debt could exceed $200,000, potentially impacting her financial stability even into retirement.
Gwynn Schroeder, a registered nurse and Southold Town’s Government Liaison Officer, emphasized the need to protect Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act. She called for community members to reflect on the importance of democracy and consider the sacrifices they are willing to make to uphold it.
Greenport Mayor Kevin Stuessi, the sole male speaker, highlighted the influence of strong women in his life and stressed the importance of addressing local issues, particularly affordable housing on the North Fork. He urged the community to “put politics aside” and take action, describing the housing situation as an “emergency.”
Midwife and Navy veteran Liz Morrison recounted her experience in the Navy Medical Corps, noting the benefits of paid maternity leave and universal healthcare. She pointed out the maternal health crisis in the U.S. and encouraged attendees to “feel the fear and do it anyway,” advocating for proactive efforts to address societal challenges.
The rally concluded with a rendition of “What The World Needs Now Is Love,” followed by remarks from former Southold Town Democratic Party Chair Kathryn Casey Quigley. She emphasized the need for community building and active participation in democracy, urging individuals to take tangible actions, no matter how small, to support and care for one another.
The event served as a precursor to the People’s March scheduled for January 18 in Washington, D.C., Port Jefferson, and Foley Square in New York City, aiming to build a base of feminists to end sexism and oppression.
The Southold Community Action Center’s upcoming meetings will provide a platform for continued discussion and action on these critical issues, fostering a sense of solidarity and purpose within the community.
For those interested in participating, the next meeting is scheduled for January 24 at 4 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalists of the North Fork’s meeting house in Southold. Community members are encouraged to attend and contribute to the ongoing dialogue and efforts toward social justice and democratic engagement.
This gathering in Greenport reflects a broader movement across the country, where communities are coming together to advocate for rights, express concerns, and work collaboratively toward a more inclusive and equitable society. The emphasis on local action underscores the belief that meaningful change often begins at the community level, with individuals united by common values and a shared commitment to progress.
As the nation approaches significant political milestones, such as the upcoming inauguration, events like the Greenport rally highlight the importance of civic engagement, the power of collective voices, and the enduring pursuit of justice and equality for all.
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From Snowflakes to Solidarity: Greenport Community Rallies for Women’s Rights and Democracy
From Snowflakes to Solidarity: Greenport Community Rallies for Women’s Rights and Democracy
From Snowflakes to Solidarity: Greenport Community Rallies for Women’s Rights and Democracy