A message from the Hancock Country Democrats (1/16):
Background: Even though the “big ugly bill” passed, the (somewhat tortured) process calls for subsequent votes on certain types of appropriations. It just so happens that a huge flood of new ICE money is up for a vote this month. “An appropriations package moving through Congress – which Democrats have helped negotiate – would give ICE money to expand its detention beds, even above the levels provided in Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” which gave the president tens of billions of dollars to supercharge his militarized mass-deportation campaign. Appropriations bills are subject to the Senate filibuster, which requires 60 votes to pass most legislation. That means Trump is counting on a number of Senate Democrats, at least seven, to help pass this bill and give ICE extra cash to further ramp up its immigration raids, which are being carried out by masked secret police. The deadline to pass the appropriations package and avoid a government shutdown is January 30.(1). ICE is heading for Maine, for reasons you understand (2). Governor Mills is resisting (3), while Golden is telling us to “avoid spreading unsubstantiated gossip or fear.” (4) What would constitute “substantiated” in his mind – a letter to him from Ice Barbie saying when and where they plan to raid? Was he one of the Democrats who “helped negotiate”? One hopes not!
Action: Ask Senator King to filibuster the ICE appropriation. Collins doesn’t have what it takes. Does he? Would Mills if she was in the Senate? Would Graham Platner? Others?
From Jess Craven, Chop Wood, Carry Water. [sample script]
I’m calling to urge the Senator to filibuster the upcoming Homeland Security appropriations bill unless [choose one or more from the following]
There are significant changes to how ICE operates, so they aren’t behaving like lawless thugs
ICE’s funding bump from the One Big Beautiful Bill is erased and returned to last year’s levels of $10B annually (down from the larger $37.5B)
ICE is completely defunded and operations are paused until the agency can be vetted/reformed
ICE is shut down entirely
I’m sick of watching lawful citizens and noncitizens being arrested at their jobs, assaulted at peaceful protests, pulled out of their vehicles, blinded by munitions, and getting shot and killed. It’s un-American. We need qualified, well-trained officers to enforce only immigration law — not rogue, unidentified agents detaining, assaulting, shooting, and murdering people. Congress needs to step up and use its power in the Constitution to rein in ICE.
Thanks for listening and please do the right thing. Your voters are watching, I promise.”
A message from the Hancock Country Democrats (1/15):
Background: One of the classic, peaceful ways to protest is to participate in a walkout. Even
school kids do it! (1) There is a nationwide walkout scheduled for January 20, 2 pm local time. The purpose is to demonstrate that we, the people, will not cooperate with fascism.
Action: As of this moment (Thursday morning Jan. 15), there are two Maine walkouts scheduled for Tuesday, one in Augusta and the other in Northeast Harbor. There are bound to be more especially if we see heightened ICE activity. Below is a blurb from the organizing partners (2). As the links suggest, you can check back closer to the 20th to find the walkout nearest to you. Or volunteer to host one yourself!
Good morning! Donald Trump’s ICE agents appear to be on their way to Maine. They have not given any details, not even to our governor, Janet Mills, but the thinking is that they will be targeting Portland and Lewiston. We have information in this newsletter, including Governor Mills’ statement. ~~George
Following this newsletter is today’s Emanuel’s Daily Action Email from Augusta – the daily action along with a link to his great list of important actions and information. Today’s call to action has more requests about ICE here in Maine.
Two new actions from Hancock County Democrats: Action 195 – EXIT the big tent of hate (1/12), that lists various things we can do to counter the big tent of hate that is the current Republican party, and Action 196 – ICE is coming (1/14), that discusses that ICE is expected in Portland, Maine, very soon and what we can do about it.
Please be sure to check out Action 196 Addendum, too, for more information on ICE here in Maine.
Also, a new actions from the Bold Coast Civic Alliance, Bold Coast Civic Alliance (1/12), discussing several items of action, including opposing Trump’s fuel economy rollbacks, supporting efforts to impeach Kristi Noem, and demanding the immediate cessation of ICE raids in American cities. More BCCA actions here.
A lot of research goes into these additional actions, so be sure to read them!
And THANK YOU to supporters who have been donating to our ActBlue fund! Planning events and maintaining the website and email list take money, so these donations are appreciated!
Current News:
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Weekly vigils are happening here in the Bangor area!
***** Wednesdays Weekly Orono Vigil in the town center, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. ***** TODAY! NEW WEEKLY THURSDAY VIGIL! At the Federal Building in Bangor 3:00 p.m.
Based on the success of last week’s protest, this is now happening every Thursday to keep Trump’s lawlessness and outrages before the public. ***** Fridays Bangor Visibility Brigade
The week finishes with two highway overpass actions! There is the Visibility Brigade on the Essex Street I-95 overpass at the new time of 3:00 p.m. Learn more here. Tell them you read about it here!
Governor Mills’ Statement on Potential Federal Law Enforcement Operations in Maine
Governor Mills issued a statement yesterday concerning ICE activity here in Maine.
On Thursday, January 15th at 5:30 PM,No ICE for ME will hold an organizing call to discuss what support is needed for immigrant communities, current conditions with ICE, and strategies and tactics to move forward with our goal to remove ICE from our state. In light of the latest escalations by ICE, this initial call will focus on aligning our efforts, sharing information about ongoing campaigns, and identifying concrete ways to move together toward large-scale mobilization.
Participants will hear brief reports on current work and upcoming actions, including efforts related to ICE Watch, the Solidarity Fund, and the Cumberland County Commissioners, before transitioning to a broader discussion about coalition-building across the state.
Date: Thursday, January 15 – TONIGHT Time: 5:30-7:00 PM
An agenda and additional meeting details will be shared soon. We hope you’ll mark your calendar and plan to participate.
In solidarity, No ICE for ME
Start: Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 5:30 PM EST
End: Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM EST
Event Type: Virtual A virtual link will be communicated before the event.
Host Contact Info: noiceforme@proton.me No ICE for ME is a grassroots organization working to end ICE activity in Maine.
Candlelight Vigil for MSNA Nurses Tomorrow January 16th 3:00 pm -5:30 pm at Cascade Park
Come out and show your support for our nurses, who have been in tough negotiations with Northern Light (EMMC). Help show Northern Light EMMC that our nurses’ needs are important, as are our patients and we’re ready to stand with MSNA as they fight for what’s right.
Team Dunlap Weekend of Action! This Weekend, 1/17 & 1/18
Help Matt Dunlap get on the ballot this weekend. Come on down to Dunlap headquarters to sign the petition or to help gather signatures!
Saturday, January 17 Sunday, January 18
Both days have these two shifts: 9:00 am-12:00 pm 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Join a Community Conversation with Maine Legislators Saturday, January 17, 2026
Join Eastern Area Agency on Aging for Supporting Older Mainers: A Legislative Conversation, an engaging and interactive event designed for agency participants, older adults, caregivers, volunteers, staff, and local legislators. This community-centered conversation provides legislators an opportunity to hear directly from those with lived experience and from the staff and volunteers who support them, and to learn more about the needs of older Mainers and caregivers in our region. Legislators will share their priorities and connect one-on-one with constituents in a respectful, focused setting centered on aging-related issues.
The event will feature informal networking, guided tours of the Durgin Center, interactive program demonstrations, remarks from legislators and AARP Maine, and time to enjoy a complimentary lunch together while continuing the conversation.
Event Details
Saturday, January 17
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
EAAA’s Durgin Center, 274 State Street, Brewer
Registration is required (Registration Closes this Friday, Jan. 9)
Faith Linking in Action’s 2026 Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Sunday, January 18, 2026
Faith Linking in Action will host a Martin Luther King Day gathering featuring singer/educator Reggie Harris and artist Bob Shetterly on Sunday afternoon, January 18.
Join them at the First United Methodist Church in Bangor at 3:00 p.m. Contact Faith Linking in Action for more information!
2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast Monday, January 19, 2026
The Greater Bangor Area Branch NAACP is hosting our annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast at a new location, Jeff’s Catering & Event Center in Brewer, ME on 01/19/2026.
This year’s keynote speaker is Darmita Wilson, Northern Light Health Vice President of Medical Education and Research.
Join us for good food and inspiring speeches. Individual, business, and organizational sponsorships gratefully accepted!
Come See the New Dunlap for Congress Office! Friday, 1/23/26
“Join us for the opening of our campaign office! Come meet Matt Dunlap, connect with fellow volunteers and supporters, and help us kick off the campaign by signing petitions and getting involved. We’ll share campaign updates, talk about how you can help, and start building momentum together. Hope to see you there!”
Location: Matt Dunlap For Congress Offices 275 Main Street, ME 04468 Between Center Street and Middle Street Here We Go Map
Jordan Wood in Orono! Town Hall at the Orono Public Library! Thursday, 1/29/26
About this event
Orono! Democratic House Candidate Jordan Wood is coming to meet you. We’ll be at the Orono Public Library. Come out to meet Jordan, learn why he’s the strongest candidate to defeat Paul LePage, and hear about what his plans as your next Congressman: sweeping campaign finance reform, passing the Ultra-Millionaire Wealth Tax, enacting universal childcare and addressing the affordability crisis head on.
Location: Orono Public Library 39 Pine St Orono, ME 04473 Here We Go Map
Food AND Medicine Annual Meeting Saturday, January 31 9:00 am – 1:00 pm with lunch at noon (lots of fun!)
FAM’s 2026 Annual Meeting, in person is best, but you can also Zoom if needed; the Zoom link will be shared prior to the meeting to those who register for the Zoom. RSVP is required to attend. FAM members will have an opportunity to elect new board members and vote on proposed bylaws changes.
FAM membership is NOT required to attend, so if you aren’t a member but want to get to know us better, come to the meeting. We love to meet new people!
The program will start promptly at 9am, and we’ll have lunch together at Noon.
Location: The Food AND Medicine Solidarity Center in Brewer 20 Ivers Street Brewer, ME 04412
As mentioned in the BCCA Special Edition action, Indivisible has a toolkit to help us relay the message to Stop Trump’s War in Venezuela:
“The Trump administration is dragging us into war with Venezuela. On the night of January 2, they launched an attack that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Maduro.
“Now Trump has declared that the US will “run” Venezuela and control oil production until a transition of power can take place. He is disregarding national sovereignty and forcing a regime-change all without authorization from Congress and without citing evidence of a legitimate threat to the United States.
“And it’s all in service of his own authoritarian ambitions. If he’s not stopped, Trump will continue this power grab, escalating violence in the region and putting US service members and civilians in danger unnecessarily.
“We need Congress to check this regime’s lawless violence, or there’s no telling where this will end. The Constitution states clearly that war powers belong to Congress—not the White House.
“Every Member of Congress must do everything in their power to stand up to Trump and prevent war with Venezuela.”
How Maine Politicians Reacted to Trump’s Illegal Actions in Venezuela
From the Bangor Daily News article, “How Maine politicians reacted to the capture of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro,” by Michael Shepherd on January 3, 2026. See it here. You will need a paid account to read it, but here are some important excerpts:
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins
The Republican senator said in a statement that she was personally briefed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying Maduro was “a narco-terrorist and international drug trafficker who has been indicted twice in U.S. courts and who should stand trial in this country.”
“Congress should have been informed about the operation earlier and needs to be involved as this situation evolves,” she said.
Gov. Janet Mills
Mills, who is running for the Democratic nomination to face Collins in 2026, said on X that Trump was moving the U.S. “closer to a costly, unnecessary, and unjustified war” in part because he knows Republicans in Congress won’t hold him accountable.
Graham Platner
The progressive military veteran facing Mills in the primary had one of the most aggressive lines against Trump’s move, noting Collins’ vote in the Senate against a war powers resolution on Venezuela. He reacted to a Trump video touting the invasion by saying he watched friends die in Iraq in the wake of similar speeches.
“From Iraq to Venezuela, you can count on Susan Collins to enable illegal foreign wars,” he said on X.
U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree
Trump’s move is “a breathtaking abuse of power,” the Democrat from Maine’s 1st District said in a statement. While she called Maduro “a ruthless dictator,” she said Trump does not have the power to pursue regime change without congressional approval.
“This reckless move risks destabilizing an already fragile region, puts millions of civilians at risk, and further isolates us from our friends and allies,” she said.
State Auditor Matt Dunlap
The Democratic candidate for the 2nd District called Trump’s move “absolutely reckless” in a statement.
“In a functioning democracy, this kind of reckless, unilateral action would be condemned across party lines,” he said. “Instead, one party is bending over backwards to justify it.”
Please see issue no. 5 in theBCCA action (12/29)for more details on the state of CBS News and their collaboration with the Trump administration. This Wikipedia article also has good information, including background discussing the Paramount-Skydance merger.
Join Indivisible Bangor!
Do you want to become more involved? Would you like to help with the website and communications? How about helping to organize events, such as rallies and visibilty actions or be a peacekeeper? Or do you just want to keep up with what we’re doing? Sign up to volunteer with Indivisible Bangor! Your level of involvement is up to you!
Weekly member meetings are on Zoom with in-person meetings on the first Wednesday of the month. Please click the link below to sign up and we’ll help you with the process of becoming a member of Indivisible Bangor!
New members, and current members, too, are invited to join one of our monthly Zoom informational meetings, which will resume after the holidays!
The shutdown is over, but the need is not. There are still cuts to programs that help people with food and other needs.
Please DONATE to a local food pantry- food, personal items, and even cash. Faith Linking in Action maintains a database of all food pantries and free meals– organized by both location and day of the week– in the Bangor area. Check it out here.
Also, ActivateMaine has created a site, SNAP Into Action: “a statewide effort to help those who are affected by the freezing of benefits due to the Government shut down.” If you know of any food drives that are happening, please visit this site to add it to the database!
The Maine ICE Watch Hotline
The purpose of the hotline is to protect immigrant families by providing accurate, real-time information about ICE and Border Patrol activity and connect Maine families to resources and support services during a time of heightened enforcement and targeting of immigrants and refugees.
Other Ways to Take Action (Courtesy of Indivisible Cumberland County:
Maine’s ICE Watch Hotline Training: Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities.
Action Alert on LD 1917: Contact Governor Mills and tell her to sign into law this bill to protect Maine’s immigrant communities, workforce, public safety, and future!
Donate to the Maine Solidarity Fund: Fund pools resources from across communities into a shared fund we can draw from immediately when urgent needs arise.
It’s mentioned a few times in these newsletters about calling your representatives in Washington, D.C. It’s one of the most important things we can do and it’s so easy!
If you are more comfortable with sending emails to our Maine congressional delegation in Washington, click the links/buttons. This is a good option if you have lengthy comments or questions.
We have an easy way to donate to Indivisible Bangor. Drop off your returnable bottles and cans to Ohio Street Redemption in Bangorand tell them to put it on the account of Indivisible Bangor. They’ll add the money to our kitty, mail out a regular check, and the money goes to our bank account to help with our expenses! You can find them here!
****Be sure the attendant writes down “Indivisible Bangor” because several donations have not been credited. Thank you!****
And you can donate here, too! Donations help pay for supplies, website, outreach, and to fund the many upcoming actions in Maine.
Thank you for all you do! – George and Indivisible Bangor
Emanuel’s Daily Call to Action:
Action Thursday January 15th: For the Heart + Get Ready to Support Our Immigrant Population In Light of Upcoming Federal Incursion
Good Morning Folks, the mayors of Lewiston and Portland have issued announcements regarding the ICE incursion, so it appears to be public now. I have got some new links that I hope work for ICE Verifier Trainings below. Ps. As our list of action grows, Gmail may shorten the email. You can ask it to include the whole email, but check to make sure it is not doing this.
Top Action to Take Today:
Call or email Janet Mills and ask her to take whatever protective measures she can take in light of the ICE incursion.
Second, Consider getting trained to be an ICE verifier. There is a training you can sign up for this Saturday January 17th,
Time: Jan 17, 2026 03:00 PM Eastern Time join here Password: 839338. Or call by phone Meeting ID: 881 9721 8089; 1 646 931 3860.You also need the de-escalation training. If you see ICE action call the Hotline at 207 544 9989.
Activate Maine has an ICE toolkit including links to sign up for ICE verifier and de escalation trainings.
The Maine ACLU has a page on preparation for ICE invasion: go here. Finally, Consider volunteering and/or donating to one of the worthy immigrant support organizations listed below:
With great appreciation for all the engagement everywhere!
As always, throw a little sand in their gears!
~~Emanuel
It’s a piece of cake to email or call with these links!
The names of our senators and representatives listed below are links that go right to their official congressional contact form pages. The telephone numbers are links that should open your phone app to call that number. It’s that easy!
“For Renee Nicole Good Killed by I.C.E. on January 7, 2026.”
by Amanda Gorman
They say she is no more,
That there her absence roars,
Blood-blown like a rose.
Iced wheels flinched & froze.
Now, bare riot of candles,
Dark fury of flowers,
Pure howling of hymns.
If for us she arose,
Somewhere, in the pitched deep of our grief,
Crouches our power,
The howl where we begin,
Straining upon the edge of the crooked crater
Of the worst of what we’ve been.
Change is only possible,
& all the greater,
When the labour
& bitter anger of our neighbors
Is moved by the love
& better angels of our nature.
What they call death & void,
We know is breath & voice;
In the end, gorgeously,
Endures our enormity.
You could believe departed to be the dawn
When the blank night has so long stood.
But our bright-fled angels will never be fully gone,
When they forever are so fiercely Good.
More Actions Today if You Have the Bandwidth
ICE Masks Off. Let’s support legislation to this effect in Maine. Talk with your local rep or senator about this. It will require some finagling to get this into this emergency session, but it surely qualifies as an emergency!
If you have a story about how the ACA tax extension health care cuts will affect you directly or someone you know please contact Esther at the MPA. Personal stories matter!
Call Collins and King and ask them to support the ACA tax extension bill coming from the House with no ammendments. The Senate will be voting on the Tax Credit Extension this week. For more information on the ACA go here. For a full toolkit on how to support action on this go here
Call or write King, Collins, Golden or Pingree and ask them to speak out about the deployment of violent ICE agents to American cities and states. They are terrorizing our people, and not in any way making our country safer. Demand a full investigation of ICE killings, refuse to pass appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security which funds ICE, and call for the Impeachment of Kristi (Cowboy Hat) Noem. For more information and a script for your call go to 5calls.org.
Help Protect Trans Youth:Transequality reports that 58 transgender persons have been either murdered or died by suicide since the regime rolled out its cruel rhetoric and anti-trans policies. “Trump is now beginning the process of banning gender-affirming care for transgender youth through a rulemaking process, thus sidestepping Congress and the legislative process entirely.
The proposed rule, RIN 0938-AV87, would bar any hospital system that participates in Medicaid or Medicare from offering gender-affirming care to transgender youth, regardless of whether that care is paid for with federal funds or privately. The rule must first go through a 60-day public comment period, which ends no later than 5pm on February 17th2026. During a comment period, rules can be challenged, delayed, and fought, but only if people show up and refuse to let it move forward quietly. You can leave a public comment here. Note that public comments really are public, so if you have a reason to protect your anonymity, do it.” (Thank you to Shelley for this action)
Ask our Senators and Congressional Representatives to demand a resignation or begin impeachment proceedings for Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense. For more information on this go here. The Impeachment bill is H. Res. 935. They should demand his immediate resignation NOW. Articles of Impeachment are on the way for RFK Jr. as well. (Thanks to Dave for this information.)
Support the right of our troops to disobey illegal orders: Defiance.org, in partnership with WhistleblowerAid.org, has launched Phase One of what it planned to be an ongoing effort to help members of our military obey lawful orders, recognize manifestly illegal ones, and know where to turn to understand the difference. This campaign includes:
Geo-targeted public service announcements, online and via social media; Billboards near key U.S. military installations ; Information about confidential, independent support available through Whistleblower Aid.
Mutual Aid
ActivateMaine has created a site, SNAP Into Action: “a statewide effort to help those who are affected by the freezing of benefits due to the Government shut down.” Even though the Government is “open” now, hunger issues continue for people around the country.
Heating Assistance: If you have friends, neighbors, or need support for Heating Assistance, Li Heap funds have been authorized for Maine, Click here to learn more about applying for LIHEAP assistance. Collins and King were involved in pushing that this money get released after the Government shutdown.
Insurance Crisis: If the ACA tax cuts do not go through, tens of thousands of us will have to choose between health care premiums and food or rent. If you have a personal story along these lines please contact Esther at the Maine People’s Alliance who is collecting personal testimony to support the passage of the ACA tax cuts. Call King and Collins to support the House bill just passed on the ACA tax extensions.
Arts and Politics!
If you live near Skowhegan check out Kevin James Studios at 127 Water Street for a whole gallery of resistance art! (Let me know if you know of other art galleries showing political art and I will list them here.)
GOT MORE TIME? HERE ARE SOME MORE ACTIONS (just pick one!)
Join the Maine People’s Alliance in bringing your story to our Congresspeople: Are your insurance rates going up? Did you lose SNAP benefits – the MPA wants to hear your story and use it to fight for Mainers in the ongoing shutdown budget battle. Fill out this form and tell your story here.
From Linda: I testified in support of LD 99 in 2020 and was thrilled that it was passed into law. LD 99 requires MainePERS to divest from all fossil fuel investments. The MainePERS Board was given until December 31, 2025, to comply with this law and has made almost no forward motion. If you would like to sign our petition in support of divesting, it would be appreciated.
More ICE resistance: Check in with organizations in Lewiston and Portland to see how you can help. Activate Maine has an ICE toolkit including links to sign up for ICE verifier and de escalation trainings. Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities. Here is the number for the ICE Watch hotline in Maine: 207 544 998
Oppose Huge Energy Sucking AI Data Centers in Maine. Lewiston denied an AI Center this past Wednesday, (Thanks to Azalea for this information!)
Ask your local Maine Representative and Senator to support LD 1383 “An Act to Require State Divestment from Perpetrators of International Human Rights Violations.” This bill prohibits Maine from investing its funds from any companies, entities, persons or financial institutions that are “associated with” a “perpetrator state”. For more details see the attachment below. The Maine Coalition for Peace and Human Rightsis responsible for this campaign, see their one page toolkit here, and write a letter to your state legislative representatives.
Home Depot Actions: Sign the petition that is demanding that Home Depot stop complying with ICE, personalize this letter to Home Depot corporate headquarters making the same demand, for more actions such as going to your local Home Depot and delivering a letter to the manager go to Ice Out of Home Depot.
Mid Maine Indivisible has a great weekly newsletter – To sign up: go here. Indivisible Bangor has a great daily newsletter and actions go here to sign up. If you are in the Mid Coast area consider joining Audacity – learn more here. The Bold Coast Civic Alliance has a newsletter as well as the Hancock County Democrat. Cumberland County Indivisible newsletter go here. Greater Portland Indivisible, go here. We are developing a great ecosystem for resistance communications in Maine.
LOCAL ACTIONS: 200 people on the bridge this past Sunday in Waterville for ICE OUT for Good!
Join Mid Maine Indivisible(Kennebec and Somerset Counties) Please join us if you are in the Mid Maine area. To sign up: go here.
Indivisible MidMaine is sponsoring an MLK day event that has limited seating – Indivisible Mid Maine Remembers and Honors Dr. King – Monday January 19th, 1-4 at the Playhouse at Waterville Station (the old RailRoad Square building). The event will include the viewing of a documentary, discussion, and the opportunity to donate winter clothing for folks who need it. To sign up go here, remember, space is limited! Join us and help build the Mid Maine community of resisters.
Later that day Waterville’s One Million Rising Group will be meeting to support one another in our activism – whatever form that takes. If you want to join us please email Emanuel or Jeanine.
There is a community member who is looking to provide home cleaning services in the Waterville area for $25 an hour. Send an email with subject “Cleaning” to get in contact for scheduling! You would be providing income for a local mother with an infant son to care for.
Are you interested in helping New Mainers learn/improve their English? To sign up for English tutoring or any of our other volunteer opportunities, please visit: Capital Area New Mainers Project (CANMP) to fill out a volunteer interest survey. An English Learning option at the Waterville library at 1:00 on Mondays is also an option for volunteers. Contact CANMP for the details. You can also Donate to the Capitol Area New Mainers Project’s rapid response fund. CANMP is actively helping those affected by ICE abductions, both with legal funding and other financial support for family members.
The Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition and partners have organized an ICE watch Hotline in Maine. They need volunteer hotline operators to answer phones from Mainers concerned about ICE sitings. They are looking for folks fluent in one or more of the following: Spanish, French and Portugese. 207-544-9989
Thursday, January 15th: Fairfield Benton Bridge 3-4 pm:Resist the Regime, Impeach the Imposters, Stop the War on Venezuela, ICE OUT for GOOD First Saturday of Each Month: Somerset Stands Up Rallies 2:30–Margaret Chase Smith Bridge, downtown Skowhegan. Bring your signs, American flags, your voice, your friends, families and neighbors for this peaceful gathering of concerned residents of Somerset County. Sunday, January 18th : 1:00 (and every Sunday): Stop the Killing, (ICE, Venezuela, USAID closing, ACA extensions dropped, etc.) Tuesday, January 20th: 12:00-1:00 (and every Tuesday) Old Location at Tesla Charging Stations at Elm Plaza, Waterville Stand with us to remind the traffic that we need to WAKE UP and start resisting the authoritarian take over of our Government. We have been at this location since Tuesday, Feb. 4th? 2025!
Wednesday, January 21st: (and every Wednesday) 12:00-1:00 Waterville, Corner of Main and Chaplin St. Grandmothers for Reproductive Rights, GRR! demonstrates every Wednesday across from Resolve, the local anti-abortion center. Please join us in assuring all Mainers have access to safe, legal, shame-free reproductive health care including abortions and contraceptive care. For more info please contact Elayne Richard at recordconnection@gmail.com SOLIDARITY
*Consider supporting Graham Platner. He is an electrifying speaker, with good positions on the important issues. Volunteer here. Go to Mobilize to find the events you can take part in this week.
However, Mills is a good alternative to support if she wins the primary in June. We must oust Collins!
*If you would like to join Maine People’s Alliance Federal Lobby Group, please contact Jim Parakilas at jamesparakilas@gmail.com. We meet Mondays at 2 pm on Zoom.
With great appreciation for all the engagement everywhere! As always, throw a little sand in their gears! Emanuel
“We will not march back to what was, but move to what shall be: a country that is bruised but whole, benevolent but bold, fierce and free.” Amanda Gorman
It’s a piece of cake to email or call with these links!
The names of our senators and representatives listed below are links that go right to their official congressional contact form pages. The telephone numbers are links that should open your phone app to call that number. It’s that easy!
Action: More things you can do, thanks to Emanuel Pariser and others!
1. Take Maine’s ICE Watch Hotline Training: Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities.
5. When you call or write Janet Mills to demand that she protects her citizens, ask her to:
Direct the State Police to have a strong presence where ICE has deployed for the purpose of assuring legal behavior of ICE agents toward citizens and residents;
Deploy the Maine National Guard to restore civil order, if the State and local police prove inadequate for the task; and
Assert State protective custody of ICE detainees held in municipal and county jails until their legal status can be determined and adjudicated if necessary.
Good morning! I am still on the road, but I have some time to catch up on all sorts of items, including new actions and new events. ~~George
Following this newsletter is today’s Emanuel’s Daily Action Email from Augusta – the daily action along with a link to his great list of important actions and information. Today’s call to action is discussion the possibility of an ICE action here in Maine.
Two new actions from Hancock County Democrats: Action 195 – EXIT the big tent of hate (1/12), that lists various things we can do to counter the big tent of hate that is the current Republican party, and Action 196 – ICE is coming (1/14), that discusses that ICE is expected in Portland, Maine, very soon and what we can do about it. More HCD actions here.
Also, a new actions from the Bold Coast Civic Alliance, Bold Coast Civic Alliance (1/12), discussing several items of action, including opposing Trump’s fuel economy rollbacks, supporting efforts to impeach Kristi Noem, and demanding the immediate cessation of ICE raids in American cities. More BCCA actions here.
A lot of research goes into these additional actions, so be sure to read them!
And THANK YOU to supporters who have been donating to our ActBlue fund! Planning events and maintaining the website and email list take money, so these donations are appreciated!
Current News:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Weekly vigils are happening here in the Bangor area!
***** TODAY! Wednesdays Weekly Orono Vigil in the town center, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. *****
NEW WEEKLY THURSDAY VIGIL! At the Federal Building in Bangor 3:00 p.m. ***** Fridays Bangor Visibility Brigade
The week finishes with two highway overpass actions! There is the Visibility Brigade on the Essex Street I-95 overpass at the new time of 3:00 p.m. Learn more here. Tell them you read about it here!
ICE Out for Good in Maine – Recap
We had a great turnout of Mainers supporting Renee Nicole Good and calling for the end of ICE and their terrorizing tactics across the country.
Upcoming Events:
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TONIGHT!!! IN-PERSON Bystander Intervention Training 6:00 pm -7:30 pm
Learn evidence-based approaches to safely intervene, de-escalate, and support targets when you witness hate in our community.
FREE EVENT! REGISTRATION REQUIRED, SPACES LIMITED! Presented by Dr. Jacquelyn Gill, who is certified by Frameshift Consulting.
Light refreshments will be served. If transportation or childcare is a barrier, please contact: FAM@foodandmedicine.org
Tonight, 1/14/26, from 6:00 pm -7:30 pm Location: The Food AND Medicine Solidarity Center in Brewer 20 Ivers Street Brewer, ME 04412
Candlelight Vigil for MSNA Nurses FRIDAY January 16th 3:00 pm -5:30 pm at Cascade Park
Come out and show your support for our nurses, who have been in tough negotiations with Northern Light (EMMC). Help show Northern Light EMMC that our nurses’ needs are important, as are our patients and we’re ready to stand with MSNA as they fight for what’s right.
Team Dunlap Weekend of Action! This Weekend, 1/17 & 1/18
Help Matt Dunlap get on the ballot this weekend. Come on down to Dunlap headquarters to sign the petition or to help gather signatures!
Saturday, January 17 Sunday, January 18
Both days have these two shifts: 9:00 am-12:00 pm 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Join a Community Conversation with Maine Legislators Saturday, January 17, 2026
Join Eastern Area Agency on Aging for Supporting Older Mainers: A Legislative Conversation, an engaging and interactive event designed for agency participants, older adults, caregivers, volunteers, staff, and local legislators. This community-centered conversation provides legislators an opportunity to hear directly from those with lived experience and from the staff and volunteers who support them, and to learn more about the needs of older Mainers and caregivers in our region. Legislators will share their priorities and connect one-on-one with constituents in a respectful, focused setting centered on aging-related issues.
The event will feature informal networking, guided tours of the Durgin Center, interactive program demonstrations, remarks from legislators and AARP Maine, and time to enjoy a complimentary lunch together while continuing the conversation.
Event Details
Saturday, January 17
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
EAAA’s Durgin Center, 274 State Street, Brewer
Registration is required (Registration Closes this Friday, Jan. 9)
Faith Linking in Action’s 2026 Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Sunday, January 18, 2026
Faith Linking in Action will host a Martin Luther King Day gathering featuring singer/educator Reggie Harris and artist Bob Shetterly on Sunday afternoon, January 18.
Join them at the First United Methodist Church in Bangor at 3:00 p.m. Contact Faith Linking in Action for more information!
2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast Monday, January 19, 2026
The Greater Bangor Area Branch NAACP is hosting our annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast at a new location, Jeff’s Catering & Event Center in Brewer, ME on 01/19/2026.
This year’s keynote speaker is Darmita Wilson, Northern Light Health Vice President of Medical Education and Research.
Join us for good food and inspiring speeches. Individual, business, and organizational sponsorships gratefully accepted!
Come See the New Dunlap for Congress Office! Friday, 1/23/26
“Join us for the opening of our campaign office! Come meet Matt Dunlap, connect with fellow volunteers and supporters, and help us kick off the campaign by signing petitions and getting involved. We’ll share campaign updates, talk about how you can help, and start building momentum together. Hope to see you there!”
Location: Matt Dunlap For Congress Offices 275 Main Street, ME 04468 Between Center Street and Middle Street Here We Go Map
Jordan Wood in Orono! Town Hall at the Orono Public Library! Thursday, 1/29/26
About this event
Orono! Democratic House Candidate Jordan Wood is coming to meet you. We’ll be at the Orono Public Library. Come out to meet Jordan, learn why he’s the strongest candidate to defeat Paul LePage, and hear about what his plans as your next Congressman: sweeping campaign finance reform, passing the Ultra-Millionaire Wealth Tax, enacting universal childcare and addressing the affordability crisis head on.
Location: Orono Public Library 39 Pine St Orono, ME 04473 Here We Go Map
Food AND Medicine Annual Meeting Saturday, January 31 9:00 am – 1:00 pm with lunch at noon (lots of fun!)
FAM’s 2026 Annual Meeting, in person is best, but you can also Zoom if needed; the Zoom link will be shared prior to the meeting to those who register for the Zoom. RSVP is required to attend. FAM members will have an opportunity to elect new board members and vote on proposed bylaws changes.
FAM membership is NOT required to attend, so if you aren’t a member but want to get to know us better, come to the meeting. We love to meet new people!
The program will start promptly at 9am, and we’ll have lunch together at Noon.
Location: The Food AND Medicine Solidarity Center in Brewer 20 Ivers Street Brewer, ME 04412
As mentioned in the BCCA Special Edition action, Indivisible has a toolkit to help us relay the message to Stop Trump’s War in Venezuela:
“The Trump administration is dragging us into war with Venezuela. On the night of January 2, they launched an attack that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Maduro.
“Now Trump has declared that the US will “run” Venezuela and control oil production until a transition of power can take place. He is disregarding national sovereignty and forcing a regime-change all without authorization from Congress and without citing evidence of a legitimate threat to the United States.
“And it’s all in service of his own authoritarian ambitions. If he’s not stopped, Trump will continue this power grab, escalating violence in the region and putting US service members and civilians in danger unnecessarily.
“We need Congress to check this regime’s lawless violence, or there’s no telling where this will end. The Constitution states clearly that war powers belong to Congress—not the White House.
“Every Member of Congress must do everything in their power to stand up to Trump and prevent war with Venezuela.”
How Maine Politicians Reacted to Trump’s Illegal Actions in Venezuela
From the Bangor Daily News article, “How Maine politicians reacted to the capture of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro,” by Michael Shepherd on January 3, 2026. See it here. You will need a paid account to read it, but here are some important excerpts:
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins
The Republican senator said in a statement that she was personally briefed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying Maduro was “a narco-terrorist and international drug trafficker who has been indicted twice in U.S. courts and who should stand trial in this country.”
“Congress should have been informed about the operation earlier and needs to be involved as this situation evolves,” she said.
Gov. Janet Mills
Mills, who is running for the Democratic nomination to face Collins in 2026, said on X that Trump was moving the U.S. “closer to a costly, unnecessary, and unjustified war” in part because he knows Republicans in Congress won’t hold him accountable.
Graham Platner
The progressive military veteran facing Mills in the primary had one of the most aggressive lines against Trump’s move, noting Collins’ vote in the Senate against a war powers resolution on Venezuela. He reacted to a Trump video touting the invasion by saying he watched friends die in Iraq in the wake of similar speeches.
“From Iraq to Venezuela, you can count on Susan Collins to enable illegal foreign wars,” he said on X.
U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree
Trump’s move is “a breathtaking abuse of power,” the Democrat from Maine’s 1st District said in a statement. While she called Maduro “a ruthless dictator,” she said Trump does not have the power to pursue regime change without congressional approval.
“This reckless move risks destabilizing an already fragile region, puts millions of civilians at risk, and further isolates us from our friends and allies,” she said.
State Auditor Matt Dunlap
The Democratic candidate for the 2nd District called Trump’s move “absolutely reckless” in a statement.
“In a functioning democracy, this kind of reckless, unilateral action would be condemned across party lines,” he said. “Instead, one party is bending over backwards to justify it.”
Please see issue no. 5 in theBCCA action (12/29)for more details on the state of CBS News and their collaboration with the Trump administration. This Wikipedia article also has good information, including background discussing the Paramount-Skydance merger.
Join Indivisible Bangor!
Do you want to become more involved? Would you like to help with the website and communications? How about helping to organize events, such as rallies and visibilty actions or be a peacekeeper? Or do you just want to keep up with what we’re doing? Sign up to volunteer with Indivisible Bangor! Your level of involvement is up to you!
Weekly member meetings are on Zoom with in-person meetings on the first Wednesday of the month. Please click the link below to sign up and we’ll help you with the process of becoming a member of Indivisible Bangor!
New members, and current members, too, are invited to join one of our monthly Zoom informational meetings, which will resume after the holidays!
The shutdown is over, but the need is not. There are still cuts to programs that help people with food and other needs.
Please DONATE to a local food pantry- food, personal items, and even cash. Faith Linking in Action maintains a database of all food pantries and free meals– organized by both location and day of the week– in the Bangor area. Check it out here.
Also, ActivateMaine has created a site, SNAP Into Action: “a statewide effort to help those who are affected by the freezing of benefits due to the Government shut down.” If you know of any food drives that are happening, please visit this site to add it to the database!
The Maine ICE Watch Hotline
The purpose of the hotline is to protect immigrant families by providing accurate, real-time information about ICE and Border Patrol activity and connect Maine families to resources and support services during a time of heightened enforcement and targeting of immigrants and refugees.
Other Ways to Take Action (Courtesy of Indivisible Cumberland County:
Maine’s ICE Watch Hotline Training: Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities.
Action Alert on LD 1917: Contact Governor Mills and tell her to sign into law this bill to protect Maine’s immigrant communities, workforce, public safety, and future!
Donate to the Maine Solidarity Fund: Fund pools resources from across communities into a shared fund we can draw from immediately when urgent needs arise.
It’s mentioned a few times in these newsletters about calling your representatives in Washington, D.C. It’s one of the most important things we can do and it’s so easy!
If you are more comfortable with sending emails to our Maine congressional delegation in Washington, click the links/buttons. This is a good option if you have lengthy comments or questions.
We have an easy way to donate to Indivisible Bangor. Drop off your returnable bottles and cans to Ohio Street Redemption in Bangorand tell them to put it on the account of Indivisible Bangor. They’ll add the money to our kitty, mail out a regular check, and the money goes to our bank account to help with our expenses! You can find them here!
****Be sure the attendant writes down “Indivisible Bangor” because several donations have not been credited. Thank you!****
And you can donate here, too! Donations help pay for supplies, website, outreach, and to fund the many upcoming actions in Maine.
Thank you for all you do! – George and Indivisible Bangor
Emanuel’s Daily Call to Action:
Action Wednesday, January 14th: ICE is Coming to Southern Maine – Get Prepared + Get Engaged
Good Morning Folks, it looks like ICE is coming to Southern Maine within the next 10 -14 days. Targets will likely be immigrant communities in Lewiston and Portland. Think Minneapolis. Ps. As our list of action grows, Gmail may shorten the email. You can ask it to include the whole email, but check to make sure it is not doing this.
Top Action to Take Today:
Given the likely reality that several hundred ICE and Border Patrol agents will invade Southern Maine soon, there are some things you can do to prepare. First, call Janet Mills and ask her to take whatever protective measures she can take in light of this incursion. Second, Consider volunteering and/or donating to one of the worthy immigrant support organizations listed below:
If you want to be more involved, take Maine’s ICE Watch Hotline Training: Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities. NO I.C.E. for Maine (noice4me): Learn more about this effort to reign in ICE. Here is the number for the ICE Watch hotline in Maine: 207 544 9989.
Finally check out Joyce Vance’s substack on whether or not States can require ICE and Border Patrol to have Masks Off. Let’s support legislation to this effect in Maine. Talk with your local rep or senator about this. There may be a bill already in the works.
For “More Actions Today if You Have the Bandwidth” from Emanuel’s Daily Call to Action (1/14), click here.
With great appreciation for all the engagement everywhere!
As always, throw a little sand in their gears!
~~Emanuel
It’s a piece of cake to email or call with these links!
The names of our senators and representatives listed below are links that go right to their official congressional contact form pages. The telephone numbers are links that should open your phone app to call that number. It’s that easy!
If you have a story about how the ACA tax extension health care cuts will affect you directly or someone you know please contact Esther at the MPA. Personal stories matter!
Call Collins and King and ask them to support the ACA tax extension bill coming from the House with no ammendments. The Senate will be voting on the Tax Credit Extension this week. For more information on the ACA go here. For a full toolkit on how to support action on this go here
Call or write King, Collins, Golden or Pingree and ask them to speak out about the deployment of violent ICE agents to American cities and states. They are terrorizing our people, and not in any way making our country safer. Demand a full investigation of ICE killings, refuse to pass appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security which funds ICE, and call for the Impeachment of Kristi (Cowboy Hat) Noem. For more information and a script for your call go to 5calls.org.
Help Protect Trans Youth:Transequality reports that 58 transgender persons have been either murdered or died by suicide since the regime rolled out its cruel rhetoric and anti-trans policies. “Trump is now beginning the process of banning gender-affirming care for transgender youth through a rulemaking process, thus sidestepping Congress and the legislative process entirely.
The proposed rule, RIN 0938-AV87, would bar any hospital system that participates in Medicaid or Medicare from offering gender-affirming care to transgender youth, regardless of whether that care is paid for with federal funds or privately. The rule must first go through a 60-day public comment period, which ends no later than 5pm on February 17th2026. During a comment period, rules can be challenged, delayed, and fought, but only if people show up and refuse to let it move forward quietly. You can leave a public comment here. Note that public comments really are public, so if you have a reason to protect your anonymity, do it.” (Thank you to Shelley for this action)
Ask our Senators and Congressional Representatives to demand a resignation or begin impeachment proceedings for Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense. For more information on this go here. The Impeachment bill is H. Res. 935. They should demand his immediate resignation NOW. Articles of Impeachment are on the way for RFK Jr. as well. (Thanks to Dave for this information.)
Support the right of our troops to disobey illegal orders: Defiance.org, in partnership with WhistleblowerAid.org, has launched Phase One of what it planned to be an ongoing effort to help members of our military obey lawful orders, recognize manifestly illegal ones, and know where to turn to understand the difference. This campaign includes:
Geo-targeted public service announcements, online and via social media; Billboards near key U.S. military installations ; Information about confidential, independent support available through Whistleblower Aid.
Mutual Aid
ActivateMaine has created a site, SNAP Into Action: “a statewide effort to help those who are affected by the freezing of benefits due to the Government shut down.” Even though the Government is “open” now, hunger issues continue for people around the country.
Heating Assistance: If you have friends, neighbors, or need support for Heating Assistance, Li Heap funds have been authorized for Maine, Click here to learn more about applying for LIHEAP assistance. Collins and King were involved in pushing that this money get released after the Government shutdown.
Insurance Crisis: If the ACA tax cuts do not go through, tens of thousands of us will have to choose between health care premiums and food or rent. If you have a personal story along these lines please contact Esther at the Maine People’s Alliance who is collecting personal testimony to support the passage of the ACA tax cuts. Call King and Collins to support the House bill just passed on the ACA tax extensions.
Arts and Politics!
If you live near Skowhegan check out Kevin James Studios at 127 Water Street for a whole gallery of resistance art! (Let me know if you know of other art galleries showing political art and I will list them here.)
GOT MORE TIME? HERE ARE SOME MORE ACTIONS (just pick one!)
Join the Maine People’s Alliance in bringing your story to our Congresspeople: Are your insurance rates going up? Did you lose SNAP benefits – the MPA wants to hear your story and use it to fight for Mainers in the ongoing shutdown budget battle. Fill out this form and tell your story here.
From Linda: I testified in support of LD 99 in 2020 and was thrilled that it was passed into law. LD 99 requires MainePERS to divest from all fossil fuel investments. The MainePERS Board was given until December 31, 2025, to comply with this law and has made almost no forward motion. If you would like to sign our petition in support of divesting, it would be appreciated.
More ICE resistance: Check in with organizations in Lewiston and Portland to see how you can help. Take Maine’s ICE Watch Hotline Training: Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities. NO I.C.E. for Maine (noice4me): Learn more about this effort to reign in ICE. Here is the number for the ICE Watch hotline in Maine: 207 544 9989
Check out upcoming Maine legislation in Abbie Mcmillen’s Action 193 email attached below.
Oppose Huge Energy Sucking AI Data Centers in Maine. Lewiston denied an AI Center this past Wednesday, (Thanks to Azalea for this information!)
Ask your local Maine Representative and Senator to support LD 1383 “An Act to Require State Divestment from Perpetrators of International Human Rights Violations.” This bill prohibits Maine from investing its funds from any companies, entities, persons or financial institutions that are “associated with” a “perpetrator state”. For more details see the attachment below. The Maine Coalition for Peace and Human Rightsis responsible for this campaign, see their one page toolkit here, and write a letter to your state legislative representatives.
Home Depot Actions: Sign the petition that is demanding that Home Depot stop complying with ICE, personalize this letter to Home Depot corporate headquarters making the same demand, for more actions such as going to your local Home Depot and delivering a letter to the manager go to Ice Out of Home Depot.
Mid Maine Indivisible has a great weekly newsletter – To sign up: go here. Indivisible Bangor has a great daily newsletter and actions go here to sign up. If you are in the Mid Coast area consider joining Audacity – learn more here. The Bold Coast Civic Alliance has a newsletter as well as the Hancock County Democrat. Cumberland County Indivisible newsletter go here. Greater Portland Indivisible, go here. We are developing a great ecosystem for resistance communications in Maine.
LOCAL ACTIONS: 200 people on the bridge this past Sunday in Waterville for ICE OUT for Good!
Join Mid Maine Indivisible(Kennebec and Somerset Counties) Please join us if you are in the Mid Maine area. To sign up: go here.
Indivisible MidMaine is sponsoring an MLK day event that has limited seating – Indivisible Mid Maine Remembers and Honors Dr. King – Monday January 19th, 1-4 at the Playhouse at Waterville Station (the old RailRoad Square building). The event will include the viewing of a documentary, discussion, and the opportunity to donate winter clothing for folks who need it. To sign up go here, remember, space is limited! Join us and help build the Mid Maine community of resisters.
Later that day Waterville’s One Million Rising Group will be meeting to support one another in our activism – whatever form that takes. If you want to join us please email Emanuel or Jeanine.
There is a community member who is looking to provide home cleaning services in the Waterville area for $25 an hour. Send an email with subject “Cleaning” to get in contact for scheduling! You would be providing income for a local mother with an infant son to care for.
Are you interested in helping New Mainers learn/improve their English? To sign up for English tutoring or any of our other volunteer opportunities, please visit: Capital Area New Mainers Project (CANMP) to fill out a volunteer interest survey. An English Learning option at the Waterville library at 1:00 on Mondays is also an option for volunteers. Contact CANMP for the details. You can also Donate to the Capitol Area New Mainers Project’s rapid response fund. CANMP is actively helping those affected by ICE abductions, both with legal funding and other financial support for family members.
The Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition and partners have organized an ICE watch Hotline in Maine. They need volunteer hotline operators to answer phones from Mainers concerned about ICE sitings. They are looking for folks fluent in one or more of the following: Spanish, French and Portugese. 207-544-9989Wednesday, January 14th: (and every Wednesday) 12:00-1:00 Waterville, Corner of Main and Chaplin St. Grandmothers for Reproductive Rights, GRR! demonstrates every Wednesday across from Resolve, the local anti-abortion center. Please join us in assuring all Mainers have access to safe, legal, shame-free reproductive health care including abortions and contraceptive care. For more info please contact Elayne Richard at recordconnection@gmail.com
Resist the Regime, Impeach the Imposters, Thursday, January 15th: Fairfield Benton Bridge 3-4 pm:Stop the War on Venezuela, First Saturday of Each Month: Somerset Stands Up Rallies 2:30–Margaret Chase Smith Bridge, downtown Skowhegan. Bring your signs, American flags, your voice, your friends, families and neighbors for this peaceful gathering of concerned residents of Somerset County. Sunday, January 18th : 1:00 (and every Sunday): Stop the Killing, (ICE, Venezuela, USAID closing, ACA extensions dropped, etc.) Tuesday, January 20th: 12:00-1:00 (and every Tuesday) Old Location at Tesla Charging Stations at Elm Plaza, Waterville Stand with us to remind the traffic that we need to WAKE UP and start resisting the authoritarian take over of our Government. We have been at this location since Tuesday, Feb. 4th? 2025!
SOLIDARITY
*Consider supporting Graham Platner. He is an electrifying speaker, with good positions on the important issues. Volunteer here. Go to Mobilize to find the events you can take part in this week.
However, Mills is a good alternative to support if she wins the primary in June. We must oust Collins! *If you would like to join Maine People’s Alliance Federal Lobby Group, please contact Jim Parakilas at jamesparakilas@gmail.com. We meet Mondays at 2 pm on Zoom. With great appreciation for all the engagement everywhere! As always, throw a little sand in their gears! Emanuel ps. Please let me know if you don’t wish to get these Action Alerts, and please feel free to pass all or parts of these alerts on to others you know. Note my email is changed to emanuel.pariser@gmail.com
“You don’t routinely see the FBI or U.S. Marshals out doing their jobs with masks on. There is literally no legitimate reason for ICE and Customs Border Patrol (CBP) to continue to operate this way during immigration “enforcement actions,” especially in light of the recent history of documented abuses. Anonymity accelerates that kind of behavior. It tells the agents they aren’t accountable for violating people’s civil rights.” Joyce Vance
It’s a piece of cake to email or call with these links!
The names of our senators and representatives listed below are links that go right to their official congressional contact form pages. The telephone numbers are links that should open your phone app to call that number. It’s that easy!
Action Tuesday January 13th 2026: Ask King, Collins, Pingree + Golden to Speak Out On ICE Violence + Threaten Funding Cuts to The Federal DHS Budget
Good Morning Folks, let’s follow up on the ICE OUT for GOOD weekend by contacting our representatives to speak out on the violence and danger coming from deploying ICE in our cities and states. Ps. As our list of action grows, Gmail may shorten the email. You can ask it to include the whole email, but check to make sure it is not doing this.
Top Action to Take Today:
Call or write King, Collins, Golden or Pingree and ask them to speak out about the deployment of violent ICE agents to American cities and states. They are terrorizing our people, and not in any way making our country safer. Demand a full investigation of ICE killings, refuse to pass appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security which funds ICE, and call for the Impeachment of Kristi (Cowboy Hat) Noem. For more information and a script for your call go to 5calls.org.
More Actions Today if You Have the Bandwidth
If you have a story about how the ACA tax extension health care cuts will affect you directly or someone you know please contact Esther at the MPA. Personal stories matter!
Call Collins and King and ask them to support the ACA tax extension bill coming from the House with no ammendments. The Senate will be voting on the Tax Credit Extension this week. For more information on the ACA go here. For a full toolkit on how to support action on this go here
Help Protect Trans Youth:Transequality reports that 58 transgender persons have been either murdered or died by suicide since the regime rolled out its cruel rhetoric and anti-trans policies. “Trump is now beginning the process of banning gender-affirming care for transgender youth through a rulemaking process, thus sidestepping Congress and the legislative process entirely.
The proposed rule, RIN 0938-AV87, would bar any hospital system that participates in Medicaid or Medicare from offering gender-affirming care to transgender youth, regardless of whether that care is paid for with federal funds or privately. The rule must first go through a 60-day public comment period, which ends no later than 5pm on February 17th2026. During a comment period, rules can be challenged, delayed, and fought, but only if people show up and refuse to let it move forward quietly. You can leave a public comment here. Note that public comments really are public, so if you have a reason to protect your anonymity, do it.” (Thank you to Shelley for this action)
Ask our Senators and Congressional Representatives to demand a resignation or begin impeachment proceedings for Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense. For more information on this go here. The Impeachment bill is H. Res. 935. They should demand his immediate resignation NOW. Articles of Impeachment are on the way for RFK Jr. as well. (Thanks to Dave for this information.)
Support the right of our troops to disobey illegal orders: Defiance.org, in partnership with WhistleblowerAid.org, has launched Phase One of what it planned to be an ongoing effort to help members of our military obey lawful orders, recognize manifestly illegal ones, and know where to turn to understand the difference. This campaign includes:
Geo-targeted public service announcements, online and via social media; Billboards near key U.S. military installations ; Information about confidential, independent support available through Whistleblower Aid.
Mutual Aid
ActivateMaine has created a site, SNAP Into Action: “a statewide effort to help those who are affected by the freezing of benefits due to the Government shut down.” Even though the Government is “open” now, hunger issues continue for people around the country.
Heating Assistance: If you have friends, neighbors, or need support for Heating Assistance, Li Heap funds have been authorized for Maine, Click here to learn more about applying for LIHEAP assistance. Collins and King were involved in pushing that this money get released after the Government shutdown.
Insurance Crisis: If the ACA tax cuts do not go through, tens of thousands of us will have to choose between health care premiums and food or rent. If you have a personal story along these lines please contact Esther at the Maine People’s Alliance who is collecting personal testimony to support the passage of the ACA tax cuts. Call King and Collins to support the House bill just passed on the ACA tax extensions.
Arts and Politics!
If you live near Skowhegan check out Kevin James Studios at 127 Water Street for a whole gallery of resistance art! (Let me know if you know of other art galleries showing political art and I will list them here.)
GOT MORE TIME? HERE ARE SOME MORE ACTIONS (just pick one!)
Join the Maine People’s Alliance in bringing your story to our Congresspeople: Are your insurance rates going up? Did you lose SNAP benefits – the MPA wants to hear your story and use it to fight for Mainers in the ongoing shutdown budget battle. Fill out this form and tell your story here.
From Linda: I testified in support of LD 99 in 2020 and was thrilled that it was passed into law. LD 99 requires MainePERS to divest from all fossil fuel investments. The MainePERS Board was given until December 31, 2025, to comply with this law and has made almost no forward motion. If you would like to sign our petition in support of divesting, it would be appreciated.
Oppose Huge Energy Sucking AI Data Centers in Maine. Lewiston denied an AI Center this past Wednesday, (Thanks to Azalea for this information!)
Ask your local Maine Representative and Senator to support LD 1383 “An Act to Require State Divestment from Perpetrators of International Human Rights Violations.” This bill prohibits Maine from investing its funds from any companies, entities, persons or financial institutions that are “associated with” a “perpetrator state”. For more details see the attachment below. The Maine Coalition for Peace and Human Rightsis responsible for this campaign, see their one page toolkit here, and write a letter to your state legislative representatives.
Home Depot Actions: Sign the petition that is demanding that Home Depot stop complying with ICE, personalize this letter to Home Depot corporate headquarters making the same demand, for more actions such as going to your local Home Depot and delivering a letter to the manager go to Ice Out of Home Depot.
More ICE resistance: Maine’s ICE Watch Hotline Training: Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities. NO I.C.E. for Maine (noice4me): Learn more about this effort to reign in ICE. Here is the number for the ICE Watch hotline in Maine: 207 544 9989
Mid Maine Indivisible has a great weekly newsletter – To sign up: go here. Indivisible Bangor has a great daily newsletter and actions go here to sign up. If you are in the Mid Coast area consider joining Audacity – learn more here. The Bold Coast Civic Alliance has a newsletter as well as the Hancock County Democrat. Cumberland County Indivisible newsletter go here. Greater Portland Indivisible, go here. We are developing a great ecosystem for resistance communications in Maine.
New:
For Maine State Legislative Calendar day by day go here
LOCAL ACTIONS: 200 people on the bridge this Sunday in Waterville for ICE OUT for Good!
Join Mid Maine Indivisible(Kennebec and Somerset Counties) Please join us if you are in the Mid Maine area. To sign up: go here.
ICE is here in Mid Maine: Someone got arrested by Border Patrol at Ming Lee Restaurant in Waterville last Wednesday. I do not have more details, but keep your eyes open for Border Patrol trucks and ICE vehicles and call in the information if you see one to the ICE Hotline at
207 544 9989.
Indivisible MidMaine is sponsoring an MLK day event that has limited seating – Indivisible Mid Maine Remembers and Honors Dr. King – Monday January 19th, 1-4 at the Playhouse at Waterville Station (the old RailRoad Square building). The event will include the viewing of a documentary, discussion, and the opportunity to donate winter clothing for folks who need it. To sign up go here, remember, space is limited! Join us and help build the Mid Maine community of resisters.
Later that day Waterville’s One Million Rising Group will be meeting to support one another in our activism – whatever form that takes. If you want to join us please email Emanuel or Jeanine.
There is a community member who is looking to provide home cleaning services in the Waterville area for $25 an hour. Send an email with subject “Cleaning” to get in contact for scheduling! You would be providing income for a local mother with an infant son to care for.
Are you interested in helping New Mainers learn/improve their English? To sign up for English tutoring or any of our other volunteer opportunities, please visit: Capital Area New Mainers Project (CANMP) to fill out a volunteer interest survey. An English Learning option at the Waterville library at 1:00 on Mondays is also an option for volunteers. Contact CANMP for the details. You can also Donate to the Capitol Area New Mainers Project’s rapid response fund. CANMP is actively helping those affected by ICE abductions, both with legal funding and other financial support for family members.
The Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition and partners have organized an ICE watch Hotline in Maine. They need volunteer hotline operators to answer phones from Mainers concerned about ICE sitings. They are looking for folks fluent in one or more of the following: Spanish, French and Portugese. 207-544-9989
Tuesday, January 13th: 12:00-1:00 (and every Tuesday) Old Location at Tesla Charging Stations at Elm Plaza, Waterville Stand with us to remind the traffic that we need to WAKE UP and start resisting the authoritarian take over of our Government. We have been at this location since Tuesday, Feb. 4th? 2025! Wednesday, January 14th: (and every Wednesday) 12:00-1:00 Waterville, Corner of Main and Chaplin St. Grandmothers for Reproductive Rights, GRR! demonstrates every Wednesday across from Resolve, the local anti-abortion center. Please join us in assuring all Mainers have access to safe, legal, shame-free reproductive health care including abortions and contraceptive care. For more info please contact Elayne Richard at recordconnection@gmail.com
Resist the Regime, Impeach the Imposters, Thursday, January 15th: Fairfield Benton Bridge 3-4 pm:Stop the War on Venezuela, First Saturday of Each Month: Somerset Stands Up Rallies 2:30–Margaret Chase Smith Bridge, downtown Skowhegan. Bring your signs, American flags, your voice, your friends, families and neighbors for this peaceful gathering of concerned residents of Somerset County. Sunday, January 18th : 1:00 (and every Sunday): Stop the Killing, (ICE, Venezuela, USAID closing, ACA extensions dropped, etc.)
SOLIDARITY
*Consider supporting Graham Platner. He is an electrifying speaker, with good positions on the important issues. Volunteer here. Go to Mobilize to find the events you can take part in this week.
However, Mills is a good alternative to support if she wins the primary in June. We must oust Collins! *If you would like to join Maine People’s Alliance Federal Lobby Group, please contact Jim Parakilas at jamesparakilas@gmail.com. We meet Mondays at 2 pm on Zoom.
With great appreciation for all the engagement everywhere!
As always, throw a little sand in their gears!
Emanuel
“What they are doing is not to provide safety in America. What they are doing is causing chaos and distrust….I dropped an f-bomb. And they killed somebody. I think the killing somebody is the inflammatory element here, not the f-bomb.” Mayor Of Minneapolis, Jacob Frey
It’s a piece of cake to email or call with these links!
The names of our senators and representatives listed below are links that go right to their official congressional contact form pages. The telephone numbers are links that should open your phone app to call that number. It’s that easy!
Action Monday January 12th: Call Collins + King to Vote in Favor of the War Powers Resolution + A Clean Extension of ACA Tax Credits
Good Morning Folks, Some wins:tens of thousands of people demonstrated this weekend in more than 1,000 vigil/demonstrations across the country to Out ICE and grieve its latest victim, Renee’ Nicole Good. Spotify is no longer running ICE ads, and Avelo is no longer running deportation flights! Let’s build on this momentum. Ps. As our list of action grows, Gmail may shorten the email. You can ask it to include the whole email, but check to make sure it is not doing this.
Top Action to Take Today:
Call Collins and Thank Her For Voting in Favor of moving the War Powers Resolution forward and ask her to vote FOR the Resolution when the Vote is Called: My note on Friday was incorrect – she did vote in favor of moving the resolution forward and she has a habit of voting both ways on things like this – let’s let her know we are watching Indivisible has an action kit on this – for a letter template to send to your Senators and other strategies go here. For a script for calls go here.
If you have done that already – Call Collins and King and ask them to support the ACA tax extension bill coming from the House with no ammendments. The Senate will be voting on the Tax Credit Extension this week. For more information on the ACA go here. For a full toolkit on how to support action on this go here
More Actions Today if You Have the Bandwidth
If you have a story about how the ACA tax extension health care cuts will affect you directly or someone you know please contact Esther at the MPA. Personal stories matter!
Learn about upcoming legislation in Maine from Abbie Mcmillen’s Action Email 193 which is attached below.
Help Protect Trans Youth:Transequality reports that 58 transgender persons have been either murdered or died by suicide since the regime rolled out its cruel rhetoric and anti-trans policies. “Trump is now beginning the process of banning gender-affirming care for transgender youth through a rulemaking process, thus sidestepping Congress and the legislative process entirely.
The proposed rule, RIN 0938-AV87, would bar any hospital system that participates in Medicaid or Medicare from offering gender-affirming care to transgender youth, regardless of whether that care is paid for with federal funds or privately. The rule must first go through a 60-day public comment period, which ends no later than 5pm on February 17th2026. During a comment period, rules can be challenged, delayed, and fought, but only if people show up and refuse to let it move forward quietly. You can leave a public comment here. Note that public comments really are public, so if you have a reason to protect your anonymity, do it.” (Thank you to Shelley for this action)
Ask our Senators and Congressional Representatives to demand a resignation or begin impeachment proceedings for Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense. For more information on this go here. The Impeachment bill is H. Res. 935. They should demand his immediate resignation NOW. Articles of Impeachment are on the way for RFK Jr. as well. (Thanks to Dave for this information.)
Support the right of our troops to disobey illegal orders: Defiance.org, in partnership with WhistleblowerAid.org, has launched Phase One of what it planned to be an ongoing effort to help members of our military obey lawful orders, recognize manifestly illegal ones, and know where to turn to understand the difference. This campaign includes:
Geo-targeted public service announcements, online and via social media; Billboards near key U.S. military installations ; Information about confidential, independent support available through Whistleblower Aid.
Mutual Aid
ActivateMaine has created a site, SNAP Into Action: “a statewide effort to help those who are affected by the freezing of benefits due to the Government shut down.” Even though the Government is “open” now, hunger issues continue for people around the country.
Heating Assistance: If you have friends, neighbors, or need support for Heating Assistance, Li Heap funds have been authorized for Maine, Click here to learn more about applying for LIHEAP assistance. Collins and King were involved in pushing that this money get released after the Government shutdown.
Insurance Crisis: If the ACA tax cuts do not go through, tens of thousands of us will have to choose between health care premiums and food or rent. If you have a personal story along these lines please contact Esther at the Maine People’s Alliance who is collecting personal testimony to support the passage of the ACA tax cuts. Call King and Collins to support the House bill just passed on the ACA tax extensions.
Arts and Politics!
If you live near Skowhegan check out Kevin James Studios at 127 Water Street for a whole gallery of resistance art!
(Let me know if you know of other art galleries showing political art and I will list them here.)
GOT MORE TIME? HERE ARE SOME MORE ACTIONS (just pick one!)
Join the Maine People’s Alliance in bringing your story to our Congresspeople: Are your insurance rates going up? Did you lose SNAP benefits – the MPA wants to hear your story and use it to fight for Mainers in the ongoing shutdown budget battle. Fill out this form and tell your story here.
Call or email our Congressional Representatives to publicly condemn the administration’s use of our Military to create havoc in Blue Cities: It is time to publicly denounce these unconstitutional, king-like actions of our Executive branch. Where is the outrage? Go to 5calls.org for a script on this request.
From Linda: I testified in support of LD 99 in 2020 and was thrilled that it was passed into law. LD 99 requires MainePERS to divest from all fossil fuel investments. The MainePERS Board was given until December 31, 2025, to comply with this law and has made almost no forward motion. If you would like to sign our petition in support of divesting, it would be appreciated.
Oppose Huge Energy Sucking AI Data Centers in Maine. Lewiston denied an AI Center this past Wednesday, (Thanks to Azalea for this information!)
Ask your local Maine Representative and Senator to support LD 1383 “An Act to Require State Divestment from Perpetrators of International Human Rights Violations.” This bill prohibits Maine from investing its funds from any companies, entities, persons or financial institutions that are “associated with” a “perpetrator state”. For more details see the attachment below. The Maine Coalition for Peace and Human Rightsis responsible for this campaign, see their one page toolkit here, and write a letter to your state legislative representatives.
Home Depot Actions: Sign the petition that is demanding that Home Depot stop complying with ICE, personalize this letter to Home Depot corporate headquarters making the same demand, for more actions such as going to your local Home Depot and delivering a letter to the manager go to Ice Out of Home Depot.
More ICE resistance: Maine’s ICE Watch Hotline Training: Get trained to field, verify, and document potential community ICE sightings and provide trusted, reliable information on ICE activity to immigrant communities. NO I.C.E. for Maine (noice4me): Learn more about this effort to reign in ICE. Here is the number for the ICE Watch hotline in Maine: 207 544 9989
Mid Maine Indivisible has a great weekly newsletter – To sign up: go here. Indivisible Bangor has a great daily newsletter and actions go here to sign up. If you are in the Mid Coast area consider joining Audacity – learn more here. The Bold Coast Civic Alliance has a newsletter as well as the Hancock County Democrat. Cumberland County Indivisible newsletter go here. Greater Portland Indivisible, go here. We are developing a great ecosystem for resistance communications in Maine.
New:
For Maine State Legislative Calendar day by day go here
LOCAL ACTIONS: 200 people on the bridge this Sunday in Waterville for ICE OUT for Good!
Join Mid Maine Indivisible(Kennebec and Somerset Counties) Please join us if you are in the Mid Maine area. To sign up: go here.
ICE is here in Mid Maine: Someone got arrested by Border Patrol at Ming Lee Restaurant in Waterville last Wednesday. I do not have more details, but keep your eyes open for Border Patrol trucks and ICE vehicles and call in the information if you see one to the ICE Hotline at
207 544 9989.
Indivisible MidMaine is sponsoring an MLK day event that has limited seating – Indivisible Mid Maine Remembers and Honors Dr. King – Monday January 19th, 1-4 at the Playhouse at Waterville Station (the old RailRoad Square building). The event will include the viewing of a documentary, discussion, and the opportunity to donate winter clothing for folks who need it. To sign up go here, remember, space is limited! Join us and help build the Mid Maine community of resisters.
Later that day Waterville’s One Million Rising Group will be meeting to support one another in our activism – whatever form that takes. If you want to join us please email Emanuel or Jeanine.
There is a community member who is looking to provide home cleaning services in the Waterville area for $25 an hour. Send an email with subject “Cleaning” to get in contact for scheduling! You would be providing income for a local mother with an infant son to care for.
Are you interested in helping New Mainers learn/improve their English? To sign up for English tutoring or any of our other volunteer opportunities, please visit: Capital Area New Mainers Project (CANMP) to fill out a volunteer interest survey. An English Learning option at the Waterville library at 1:00 on Mondays is also an option for volunteers. Contact CANMP for the details. You can also Donate to the Capitol Area New Mainers Project’s rapid response fund. CANMP is actively helping those affected by ICE abductions, both with legal funding and other financial support for family members.
The Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition and partners have organized an ICE watch Hotline in Maine. They need volunteer hotline operators to answer phones from Mainers concerned about ICE sitings. They are looking for folks fluent in one or more of the following: Spanish, French and Portugese. 207-544-9989First Saturday of Each Month: Somerset Stands Up Rallies 2:30–Margaret Chase Smith Bridge, downtown Skowhegan. Bring your signs, American flags, your voice, your friends, families and neighbors for this peaceful gathering of concerned residents of Somerset County. Sunday, January 11th : 1:00 (and every Sunday): this Sunday ICE OUT FOR GOOD, a vigil/demonstration for the victims of ICE violence, dress in black, black armbands, demand a full investigation of ICE violence!
Tuesday, January 13th: 12:00-1:00 (and every Tuesday) Old Location at Tesla Charging Stations at Elm Plaza, Waterville Stand with us to remind the traffic that we need to WAKE UP and start resisting the authoritarian take over of our Government. We have been at this location since Tuesday, Feb. 4th? 2025! Wednesday, January 14th: (and every Wednesday) 12:00-1:00 Waterville, Corner of Main and Chaplin St. Grandmothers for Reproductive Rights, GRR! demonstrates every Wednesday across from Resolve, the local anti-abortion center. Please join us in assuring all Mainers have access to safe, legal, shame-free reproductive health care including abortions and contraceptive care. For more info please contact Elayne Richard at recordconnection@gmail.com
Resist the Regime, Impeach the Imposters, Thursday, January 15th: Fairfield Benton Bridge 3-4 pm:Stop the War on Venezuela, First Saturday of Each Month: Somerset Stands Up Rallies 2:30–Margaret Chase Smith Bridge, downtown Skowhegan. Bring your signs, American flags, your voice, your friends, families and neighbors for this peaceful gathering of concerned residents of Somerset County. Sunday, January 18th : 1:00 (and every Sunday): Stop the Killing, (ICE, Venezuela, USAID closing, ACA extensions dropped, etc.)
SOLIDARITY
*Consider supporting Graham Platner. He is an electrifying speaker, with good positions on the important issues. Volunteer here. Go to Mobilize to find the events you can take part in this week.
However, Mills is a good alternative to support if she wins the primary in June. We must oust Collins! *If you would like to join Maine People’s Alliance Federal Lobby Group, please contact Jim Parakilas at jamesparakilas@gmail.com. We meet Mondays at 2 pm on Zoom. With great appreciation for all the engagement everywhere! As always, throw a little sand in their gears! Emanuel ps. Please let me know if you don’t wish to get these Action Alerts, and please feel free to pass all or parts of these alerts on to others you know. Note my email is changed to emanuel.pariser@gmail.com
“That’s fine dude. I’m not mad at you,” Last words of Renee’ Nicole Good spoken to ICE officer.
With great appreciation for all the engagement everywhere!
As always, throw a little sand in their gears!
Emanuel
More Anti War Music brings me back to these numbers – please send me your favorites:
A great one from Stevie Wonder – Frontline check it out!
It’s a piece of cake to email or call with these links!
The names of our senators and representatives listed below are links that go right to their official congressional contact form pages. The telephone numbers are links that should open your phone app to call that number. It’s that easy!
Background: Several sources have suggested today that ICE plans to visit Maine very soon, like in the next week or so, sending in several hundred agents the way they did in Minnesota. Immigrant communities such as in Lewiston need to be taking precautions in case the raids come.
And read Shay Stewart-Bouley’s post https://shaystewartbouley.substack.com/p/coldest-ice-nah-it-will-probably where she says: “I say this as someone in Portland, Maine, area, where ICE is expected to arrive in force very soon (I guess they wanted their matched pair of coastal Portlands to terrorize after messing around in Oregon). Supposedly, they will be here “only” a week, but I’ll believe it when I see it.”
Action: Do what you can to help, and stay safe. Do not under any circumstances give the Trump administration any excuse to invoke the Insurrection Act. Janet Mills might consider stopping her campaign long enough to implement some protective actions – call her. She’s a friend of Governor Pritzker, maybe he can give her some pointers. Videos of whatever goes down will be very important.
And tell our delegation to get the heck home and protect their constituents! Especially Jared Golden, or his legacy will be one of complicity with an attempted fascist takeover.
~~~~~~~ Contact:
Phone for Governor Mills’ office: main phone number (207) 287-3531
