A message from Living Liberally co-director Katrina Baker.
Things are bad, but I don’t have to tell you that. AIG execs are making bank while many people have been out of work for months. Meanwhile, politicians and mainstream media outlets seem suddenly shocked that the public has “rage.” For the last six years, local Living Liberally chapters have found ways for people to channel that rage, build power in their communities, and work together for the world they want to see. But, in the current economic climate – we will have a hard time continuing to support them.
While our political fortunes are up, like almost everyone, our financials are tough right now. We can only cut costs so much, and there are some expenses we need to keep paying to keep this organization running (like our web tools). That’s why we need to turn to the friends that know us best — and ask you for your help.
As a reminder, Living Liberally — the national organization that runs Drinking, Eating, Laughing, Reading, Screening, Crafting & Praying Liberally — is an organization I’ve been co-directing for over 4 years. We went from one chapter of Drinking Liberally in 2003 at Rudy’s bar in Hell’s Kitchen to a few chapters in 2004 to now over 300 chapters in all 50 states and several internationally. These chapters are comprised of ordinary people who do extraordinary work in their communities pushing progressive policies, candidates, and community values. They are teachers, sheriffs, postal workers, bloggers, professors, stay-at-home parents, retirees, and mechanics.
With a staff of two people and an extensive volunteer network, Living Liberally has accomplished a lot with relatively little…however, we do require that “little” to maintain our overloaded website and e-mail system, support our chapters, and be a strong partner to the progressive movement.
And that’s why we need you — join us on Saturday, May 30th for the Living Liberally Annual Fundraiser, our spring celebration that draws together our community, honors our allies, and brings in much needed resources to continue our work
You can get your tickets now at: http://livingliberally.org/celebration09. There are $100, $150 and $250 giving levels; and, if you order now, you can two tickets for just $150 (that’s the community organizer early bird special until March 31).
This year our good friend Sam Seder will be the master of ceremonies as we honor the national watchdog Media Matters, the black political blog Jack & Jill Politics, and Manhattan’s own Borough President Scott Stringer. The event will have food and drink, politicos and pals, and a great chance to help us make a difference.
Every ticket has a big impact on our small operation. Please consider purchasing your ticket now — it will go a long way toward helping us with our work ahead and we’ll have a great time on May 30th.
Get your tickets: http://livingliberally.org/celebration09
Also, if you’d like to join the host committee, or know an organization that would want to learn about sponsorship options, please let me know.
Finally, every little bit counts – if you can’t make it to the event please still consider making a contribution or buying a Liberal Card or two.
I know it’s hard for a lot of people to give right now, but if you have a stable job, please continue to support your favorite organizations – we all need your help.