Progressive coalition working for change
A civic phenomenon struck the Capital Region in February 2017. Ignited by the first Women’s March, fueled by fear of what a Trump presidency could do to our democracy, the movement began casually as like-minded friends gathered to share common concerns. It didn’t take long for informality to evolve into regularly scheduled meetings and structured agendas.
From coffee at the kitchen table to lobbying at the Capitol, retired citizens who had time were among those who started organizing to address voting rights, health care, gun safety and the environment. Seniors mused that this experience was reminiscent of the protest era of the 1960s. At the start, groups were remarkably unaware of one another.
It was the Watervliet Huddle that took the initiative to pool these different groups together by hosting collaborative meetings
in preparation of Rep. Paul Tonko addressing 78 members of 15 groups on Super Bowl Sunday in 2018 on the first-year anniversary of this activist movement. The congressman was quite impressed with the energy in the room that morning. His enthusiasm propelled the Watervliet Huddle to formally launch the Coalition of Capital Region Progressives.
The Coalition of Capital Region Progressives strengthened resolve, made a shared agenda more efficient and increased participation in government for some comfortably retired people. Today, the beat goes on as we transition from former President Donald Trump to President Joe Biden. We believe clean air, the right to vote, health care for all, and safety from gun violence should not be promises; they should be our reality. Reinforced by our unity, we continue to work for these beliefs.
Felicia Bordick
Delmar Bethlehem Morning
Voice Huddle