On Tuesday, August 4 neighbors from around the country will be hosting block parties, barbecues, ice cream socials, and other outdoor events that bring neighbors together. This year's National Night Out "Town Nights - Celebrating Safe Spaces in the Town", is a great opportunity for us to connect with more of our neighbors by sharing resources on how to identify ICE agents and vehicles, and what to do before, during, and after if federal law enforcement shows up at your home.
Across Oakland, neighbors have been getting trained up on how to keep watch for ICE, with the intention to decrease harm for BIPOC and/or immigrant communities. Additional agreements include: We remember the state is always watching. We don't use state tools on our people. We don't call ICE and we don't call the cops. We are mindful about sharing information that could be used to target vulnerable community members.
When we know our rights and know our neighbors, we are a lot safer. On August 4, we can meet our neighbors where they are at and shift the culture of isolation to connection.
Best practices:
- Never Canvass Alone: Always work in pairs for safety and witness verification.
- Bilingual Presence: Bilingual Speakers are important! Depending on the neighborhood, try to recruit bilingual speakers.
- Local knowledge: If you can, invite folks who are from the neighborhood to join you or brief your canvassing team so you can incorporate any relevant information into your plan.
- Material: Make sure to pick up or print out materials to share with neighbors during the canvass.
Join a virtual training on how to canvass your neighbors at 6pm Wednesday, July 29. You will receive the training link once you sign up below.
We will provide the materials that you can pick up from the Bay Resistance office at 570 14th St. in Oakland 7/31 and 8/3 from 10am-6pm
