Statment from the Founder of Belonging Partnership Dr. Tyia Grange Isaacson, She/ Her
Protecting the Most Vulnerable
Belonging Partnership is a social worker-run organization committed to safeguarding those at the highest risk in our communities. We stand in solidarity with individuals and communities experiencing increased stress and threats due to recent executive orders targeting:
- Reproductive Rights
- Transgender Individuals
- Immigrant Rights
- Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Communities
These policy shifts have raised serious human rights concerns, as outlined in the NASW’s (National Association of Social Workers) policy analysis of Project 2025. If you’re alarmed by these developments and want to take action, here’s how you can make a difference:
1. Tyia recommends Use Digital Tools to Amplify Your Voice
Several online platforms can help you reach your representatives and stay informed:
5 Calls – Provides issue summaries and call scripts to make contacting legislators easier.
Resistbot – Converts your messages into faxes, emails, or postal letters to your representatives.
2. Support Organizations Fighting for Change
By donating your time or resources, you can help amplify the impact of organizations dedicated to justice and equity:
- ACLU – Defends civil rights and liberties.
- Human Rights Campaign (HRC) – Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Lambda Legal – Provides legal aid for LGBTQ+ individuals and those with HIV/AIDS.
- Planned Parenthood – Protects reproductive rights.
- The Nature Conservancy – Fights for environmental protection.
- Immigrants Rising – Supports undocumented individuals.
3. Contact Your California Legislative Representatives
Your voice matters—here’s how to reach your state representatives:
Find Your Representatives – Use this tool to locate your State Senate and Assembly members.
Reach Out – Once identified, access their contact details on the California State Assembly’s official website.
4. Prioritize Your Mental Health
Activism can be emotionally taxing. To maintain your well-being:
- Set Boundaries – Engage in activism in a way that sustains you long-term. Not everyone can donate or attend protests, so choose a way to get involved that keeps you resourced for the long haul.
- Seek Support – Connect with like-minded individuals or support groups to share experiences and coping strategies. Community is more important than ever.
- Practice Self-Care – Engage in activities that rejuvenate you, such as reading, exercise, meditation, cooking, music, spending time in nature, and being with loved ones.
- Limit Media Consumption – Take breaks from the news and social media to prevent overwhelm.
- Incorporate Gratitude and Humor – Celebrate small victories and moments of joy to sustain your energy for the fight ahead.
Dr. Grange Isaacsons says that Now is the time to stand up, speak out, and support one another. Every action—big or small—creates ripples of change. Let’s build a future where everyone belongs.