We Need Everyone!

To defend democracy, protect civil rights, and shape a thriving future for our country, we need everyone. That means we need to be able to disagree and still come together around our shared values and commitment to our community and our country. 
 
We recognize that the endorsements made by Indivisible Whidbey members have left some people dissatisfied. The good news is, it means people care! It’s GOOD to see passion, disagreement, and dialogue!
 
That is why the endorsement process was open and transparent. We put out a broad request for volunteers to conduct in-depth research. Their exhaustive work included candidate interviews and collecting facts. We also put out a request for input from anyone who had information about the candidates. At our membership meeting, we shared the research, created time for conversation and dialogue, and ultimately held a vote by the members. That membership vote determined these endorsements. This is democracy!
 
The results don’t always make everyone happy. Indivisible Whidbey’s membership endorsements are one data point. We have candidate forums (see below) and nearly a month of campaigning before the primary. So continue to pay attention, talk about the issues, disagree, and share your passion. Then VOTE! The upcoming ballot is about much more than one race or one issue, so be sure to vote the entire ballot. And as you vote, commit to continuing to work as a community to protect democracy and protect people. Together, we can shape a thriving future.
 
Calling Young Families
Speaking of needing everyone, Indivisible Whidbey would like to make it easy (and fun!) for families with young children to help shape our future. Jumping into politics can feel overwhelming, but there is a lot at stake for parents who are trying to raise children in today’s world. Let’s get together and talk about it. 
 
Join us at Heart to Heart Family Picnics, four summer Thursdays.
 
Castle Park at South Whidbey Community Park
5495 Maxwelton Rd, Langley
Thursday evenings: July 16, July 23, July 30, and August 6 
5:00 pm-7:00 pm
 
Sign up here and invite your friends.
 
Some possible topics: What is and isn’t working?  What are the biggest issues for you and your family?  What are your ideas for bringing about change and fostering hope? How can busy parents have a role in shaping our future? What are ways to get involved that work for us? 
 
While the kids play, we can talk. Bring a picnic dinner; Indivisible Whidbey will provide ice cream!
 
Community Socials Are Back!
After taking a break in July, our local community gatherings are resuming in August. Come on by, meet your neighbors, talk about issues and have some fun.
 
Oak Harbor
First Wednesday of each month
Oak Harbor Library
Wednesday, August 5, 6-7:30 pm
Sign up here

South End
Third Thursday of each month
Langley United Methodist, Fireside Room
Thursday, August 20 , 6-7:30 pm
Sign up here

Coupeville
4th Tuesday of each month 
Coupeville Public Library
Tuesday, August 24, SPECIAL TIME: 6:15pm- 7:45 pm
Sign up here 

Candidate Forums
Don’t miss these opportunities to learn more about the people who want to represent you. 
 
Island County Assessor, Auditor, and County Clerk
July 9, 6 pm
By League of Women Voters, Via Zoom. Information here. 
 
Island County Clerk, Assessor, and Sheriff
July 14, 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Clinton Hall
 
Legislative District 10, Island County Commissioner and Sheriff
July 16, 6 pm
By League of Women Voters, Via Zoom. Information here.
 
Good Trouble Lives On
Civil rights leader and Congressman John Lewis encouraged us to make good trouble as we work for a better community, nation, and world. We honor his legacy the weekend of July 17. If you would like to join a rally that weekend, here are some of the ones we know of that occur regularly on the island: 
 
Bayview Saturday mornings, Park and Ride

Coupeville. Saturday mornings, 11am-12pm, Overpass
 
Oak Harbor. Saturday mornings, 11am-12pm, Beeksma Park
 
If you would like to plan a rally, you can get information and register your event here.  Let us know so we can share your event with other Indivisible Whidbey members. 
 
This year’s theme is  “Teach! Reach! Preach!” to encourage non-partisan voter engagement, civic education, and faith-based organizing.
 
We encourage you to carry this theme into all your activities that weekend. Whether it’s church, game night, pickleball, or gardening, reflect on the legacy of Congressman Lewis and share your commitment to Good Trouble with your community.
 
Singing Resistance
Join us for Songs of Power and Hope, Community Action for our Democracy.
 
Sunday, July 19
4-5 pm Action & Community
5-6:15 pm SINGING!
 
Sign up here. 
South Whidbey Community Center
Garden Courtyard
723 Camano Avenue, Langley
(inside if it rains)
 
Hosted by: Singing Resistance
SOS Whidbey & Indivisible Whidbey 
 
It’s exciting and heartening to see our community growing, disagreeing, advocating and getting involved. There is so much going on and so much opportunity to have impact. Let’s continue to pay attention, find ways to take action, and support one another in this important work. 
 
In Solidarity,
Indivisible Whidbey Steering Committee