“No Kings” rallies in Westport — and weekly protests on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge — have drawn plenty of people, and attention.
But there are questions too. Like: “What’s next?”
Flags flew at October’s “No Kings” rally. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Last month, a group of residents — including Congressman Jim Himes, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas and actor James Naughton — met at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport to discuss an answer.
The “What’s Next” organizers describe themselves as “a local pro-democracy community group that believes in free and fair elections for all citizens.” Members include Monique Bosch, Miggs Burroughs, Kenny Epstein, Linda Franciscovich, Dalma Heyn, Dan Levinson, Dede & Tony McDowell, Jonathan Steinberg and Stephanie Weiner.
Levinson said, “We left April ‘No Kings’ energized and wanting to take action. But we were lost as to how.
“In Westport, we feel we can do more than march, vote and donate. So our team came together to experiment around creative local projects and events that might have wider impact.
“Our goal is to do our part to help save our democracy, with the immediate focus on the November elections. The launch event last month was well attended, with great energy. Future events will follow.
“We are a grassroots, informal crew. Suggestions are always welcome.”
Their next event — “What’s Next? From Protests to Projects 2.0” — is June 18 (5 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church). They’ll learn about several organizations working to increase voter turnout, and ensure fairness, in November.
Calling it “another upbeat, informal, fun and productive reception bringing together people who want to engage with friends and neighbors to make a difference,” they’ve invited Bryan Mattimore to help attendees “uncover unexpected creative ways to get involved.”
Co=founder of the Norwalk-based Growth Engine Company (www.growth-engine.com) innovation agency, he has facilitated over 1,000 brainstorming sessions. Mattimore managed over 200 innovation projects, leading to over $3 billion in new sales for Fortune 500 clients including Kraft, Unilever, Ford, BNY Mellon, LVMH, Merck, and Pepsi.
Questions? Email danlev314@gmail.com. Click here to register.
