Massachusetts is at a critical crossroads, and the actions taken on Beacon Hill this session will define the state’s commitment to civil liberties and the rule of law. It is time for all of us to reach out to our state legislators and urge them to take their cues from a comprehensive legislative agenda focused on protection, transparency, and justice.
When you call your State Senator and State Representative, ask them to prioritize the following three pillars and the critical PROTECT Act.
1. Build "Firewalls for Freedom"
Our state resources should never be weaponized against our own neighbors. We must urge legislators to support the Safe Communities Act (H.2580 / S.1681) and the Dignity Not Deportations Act (H.1588 / S.1122). These bills create essential firewalls between local governance and federal immigration overreach, ensuring that Massachusetts remains a place where everyone can access emergency services, schools, and courts without fear.
2. Protect "Technology for Liberty"
In an era of rapid digital expansion, our privacy rights must keep pace. Legislators need to support bills like the Location Privacy Act and measures to curb face surveillance. Protecting our digital "papers and effects" from warrantless government access is a fundamental necessity for a free society.
3. Strengthen "Democracy & Voting Rights"
The right to vote is the foundation of all other liberties. We are calling for the passage of the Voting Rights Act, which would remove barriers to the ballot box and ensure that every voice in the Commonwealth—particularly in historically marginalized communities—is heard and represented.
4. Pass the PROTECT Act (HD.5608)
The PROTECT Act (An Act promoting rule of law, oversight, trust, and equal constitutional treatment) is a broad and vital legislative package filed by the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus. This bill overlaps with and reinforces our civil rights priorities by:
Prohibiting state and local officials from sharing personal information with ICE.
Requiring transparency in law enforcement hiring to ensure officers align with standards of bias-free policing.
Establishing a secure locator system so families can find detained loved ones.
Here is a concise script designed to be read at a natural pace, ensuring the legislative aide can accurately capture the bill numbers and your primary request.
Phone Call Script
Introduction:
"Hi, my name is [Your Name] and I’m a constituent from [Your Town/City]. I’m calling to urge [Senator/Representative Name] to protect our civil liberties and the rule of law this session."
The Ask:
"I am asking the [Senator/Representative] to support and co-sponsor three key priorities from the ACLU and the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus:
Firewalls for Freedom: Specifically the Safe Communities Act (H.2580 / S.1681) and the Dignity Not Deportations Act (H.1588 / S.1122).
The PROTECT Act: That is bill HD.5608. It is essential for ensuring oversight and constitutional treatment.
Technology and Voting Rights: I want to see the Location Privacy Act and the MA Voting Rights Act passed."
The Moral Stand:
"Finally, I ask that the [Senator/Representative] speaks out publicly against aggressive ICE tactics that harm our communities. We need more than just a vote; we need moral leadership on this issue."
Closing:
"Thank you for taking my comments. Does the office have a position on the PROTECT Act yet?"
Tips for your call:
Keep it local: If you are calling from Millis, mentioning you are a neighbor helps the staffer prioritize your message.
The "Capturable" Note: Staffers often use a spreadsheet or database. By grouping the bills into "Firewalls," "PROTECT Act," and "Privacy/Voting," you make it much easier for them to categorize your support.
Ask for a response: If you want to know where they stand, ask for a brief email follow-up.
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