This week has been a pretty good reflection of the cognitive dissonance we’re all living through.
On one hand, the Trump regime is clearly failing and flailing. They’re calling affordability a “con job” … and it isn’t working. They’re claiming to be at war with people in boats thousands of miles away … and it isn’t working.
(Trump, naturally, spent the week firing architects and giving himself medals.)
Trump gives himself the FIFA Medal for Very Special Boys
On the other hand, the Supreme Court reminded us this week who’s really in charge. 🤬 (We knew it was coming, didn’t we? These judges aren’t beating the allegation that they’re partisan political actors. We need candidates who pledge to REFORM THIS COURT next year.)
And while Trump’s regime may be failing, they’re also doing plenty of damage, like canceling infant vaccines, opening our ocean for drilling, and rolling back fuel efficiency standards. And the horrific stories about people caught up in ICE raids keep piling up.
Still, let’s laugh at the buffoonery. At least it momentarily distracts us from the waste, damage, arrogance, and cruelty ….
Christmas Gift Drive: Signal Strikes Again 🎁
Here’s a feel-good holiday story worthy of the Hallmark Channel … after a massively successful grocery drive for families impacted by ICE activity, FORWRD Hyde Park members and the Austin Monarch Collective decided to team up to buy Christmas gifts for the children in those families.
There are 50 kids to shop for, many cousins from blended families. Laura C. put a message on our Signal group chat … and lo and behold, every child was sponsored within days 🥳
Now, the team is hoping to gift each family a Visa or HEB gift card. Would you like to chip in? You can Venmo Laura … or if you’d like to donate an existing gift card, give us a shout and we’ll tell you where you can drop it off.
Thank you to EVERYONE who is coming together to spread holiday cheer to these beleaguered families!
P.S.: The Monarch Collective was launched by FORWRD member Jamie Gardner … here’s more info about what they’re up to and how to get involved:
Stay Tuned!
The FORWRD-04 group is planning a luminaria-lit Peace Path in Little Stacy Park in mid-December, featuring a live band and a bake sale.
We love this idea so much that we’re thinking of it as an impromptu FORWRD Holiday Social … and we hope you’ll join us! We’re still waiting to confirm the date with our friends at the Off Hand Brass Band — look for an invite in your in-box soon.
And! After a successful screening of Borderland: The Line Within last month at St. George’s Episcopal Church, FORWRD volunteers are planning a series of screenings in 2026, beginning in January. We’ll keep you posted as their plans develop!
Calling All Cow Towners
The Fort Worth voter turnout project we told you about last week is heating up. We know it’s a busy time of year, but we’ll be scheduling a Zoom meeting within the next two weeks to plan & discuss. We’re convinced we can bring some FORWRD mojo to the special election … and maybe even turn the tide. The first step is to build our plan — if you’d like to join this brainstorming effort, let us know … we have a hunch that there are lots of folks with one degree of separation from Tarrant County folks out there … we want your ideas!
🗓️ Calendar Highlights
For Friday, December 5th : Lots of ways to support our community with your holiday shopping!
💜= FORWRD member recommended
Local Austin events (in person):
Friday, December 5th 7-9 PM The Altars Project Community Vigil Join us in remembering and advocating for people detained by the federal government in our local communities. Live music, poetry readings - and all food, drink and art for sale will be going towards legal funds for a community member detained by ICE.
Saturday, December 6th 10 AM - 2 PM Refugee Art Bazaar The free community event features the work of refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Cuba and others who have recently settled in Austin. The artisans will be showcasing hand-made goods including jewelry, handbags, dresses, leather goods, candles, decorative cushions, paintings and fresh-baked pastries, treats and traditional foods (Come hungry!). One hundred percent of proceeds go directly to the vendors.
Saturday-Sunday, December 6th-7th 11 AM - 4 PM Holiday Reuse Art Market Visit Austin Creative Reuse’s outdoor Reuse Art Market to peruse local handmade goods and connect with your community! This family-friendly event will feature 50+ local vendors per day, as well as free activities hosted by local community organizations.
Saturday-Sunday, December 6th-7th 11 AM - 5 PM Holigay Market Shop local and support over 100+ queer artists, businesses, and organizations
Sunday, December 7th 1-3 PM Virtual Phone Bank for Taylor Rehmet If you’ve been wanting to DO SOMETHING, this is an easy way to motivate voters in the exciting Texas Senate District 9 race!
Saturday, December 13th 9:00-12:00 Prayer Vigil for those detained inside the T Don Hutto Detention Center Austin Sanctuary Network and others are gathering outside of the T Don Hutto Detention Center in Taylor, TX for prayer and solidarity.
Saturday, December 13th 10:30-12:00 Rise Up Book Club’s Holiday Book Exchange Bring a wrapped book to gift to play a white elephant style game! If at all possible, the book should be one of your favorites that's not super well known. Also feel free to bring drinks and snacks to share!
© Mike Luckovich
