

by Charles Shafer, Baltimore Ethical Society
The Baltimore Ethical Society is engaging in “Talk to Action,” a series of activities addressing issues systemic racism in our criminal justice system. We work closely with Out For Justice, an organization of previously incarcerated citizens.
We have devoted several of our Sunday platforms to both hearing from those trapped inside an unjust criminal justice system and working in small groups discussing strategies for to improve the situation, such as pursuing improving police/community relations, developing a manageable list of activities to pursue, and learning lobbying strategies. In addition we have participated in community activities such as expungement clinics for exoffenders and sponsored events such as a public program attended by about 100 people to view videos, meet legislators, hear from returning citizens, and develop plans.
The vast bulk of our membership understands the abuses perpetrated in the name of justice and the urgent need for reform. However, by engaging in these activities instead of just sitting around and agreeing with each other, we may actually make a difference. Most importantly we have the opportunity to work with, and learn from, many wonderful people in the exoffender community.
“Talk to Action” participants will be meeting often at our Sunday sessions and community events, and assisting in lobbying, exoffender voter registration, and taking other forms of direct action. We publicize these activities in Meetup sites, Facebook page, and monthly BESpeak newsletter.
Congressman Jamie Raskin Salutes Long Walk for Freedom
www.einnews.com
Congressman Jamie Raskin shared words of support for the Sindhi Foundation's Long Walk for Freedom, Nature, and Love today.12 ·
www.mymcmedia.org
U.S. Reps. Jamie Raskin (D-Md. 8) and David Trone (D-Md. 6) have written a letter to Gov. Larry Hogan and Maryland’s Acting Secretary of Health Dennis Schrader urging that the state open a mass vaccination site in Montgomery County. “[D]espite Montgomery suffering the worst casualty rate in Mary...2 ·
3 ·
Religious Groups Agree: Pass The Do No Harm Act
www.au.org
The Do No Harm Act will return the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to its original purpose of protecting the free exercise of religion, especially for religious minorities, while making it clear that the legislation should never be used to exempt anyone from laws that protect other people’s basi...3 ·