Thank you to those NN14 attendees who came out to protest the immoral water shutoffs last Friday in Detroit. To those who couldn’t make it, thank you for your support from afar.
The Monday after we left town, the City of Detroit announced it was suspending shutoffs for 15 days. This is huge progress, but there is more work to be done. Local organizers continue to pressure the City of Detroit Council to stop the shutoffs and work around the clock to provide water to those who currently are without.
The rally was among the highlights of NN14. Our collective voice, presence and support at the water rally last Friday added momentum to the efforts of organizations like the People’s Water Board Coalition, Michigan Welfare Rights Organization, We the People of Detroit, and many more. Organizers say the rally drew 2,500 people—allies and those wearing NN credentials alike. The rally received mentions in national press including the New York Times, MSNBC, ABC, NBC and more. As Rev. Barber told us Thursday night, ‘forward together, not one step back!’
One of the most moving moments of the week was when we received this email from a Detroiter:
“That you shined a light on the wicked things going on here and took time out of your conference to support us in this right wing attack is appreciated more than you will ever know by myself, my family and my neighbors. One neighbor said she has been praying for something like the Friday march to happen. May this kindness come back to you a thousand times.”
It’s important that we continue to stand in solidarity with our friends in Detroit to end this crisis. You can help a Detroit resident directly by submitting a payment to the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department on their behalf. Click here to pay someone’s bill.
About The Author
Mary
Communications director of Netroots Nation and Netroots Foundation.