Some recent and new protest signs for bridge, roadside, and intersection protests in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
![A protest sign with text and [design] elements:
Dear MAGA
[like a "Dear John" letter and salutation]
Longer you stay, fewer
family and friends
will forgive you.](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:xr4me5dbhvzf6yaq4zaqnot6/bafkreiffv5j76daj55yrpi2xgzmadvladcjr6l6okb27nangf2mq2xgayi)
![A protest sign with text and [design] elements:
Bad...
Wildfire Smoke
[tree on fire]
Worse...
Explosive Diarrhea
[menacing microorganism]
Worst!
AIPAC-Funded
Candidates
[thumbs down]](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:xr4me5dbhvzf6yaq4zaqnot6/bafkreihulzn64kqgfqsgvbzfoorymn37crdo4urvj6e4iowksijeyswrzq)
![A protest sign with text and [design] elements:
Higher Prices
Lost Jobs
[dollar bill with wings, flying away]
100 His Fault](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:xr4me5dbhvzf6yaq4zaqnot6/bafkreif6v4i6yr6exb5eavk7gyo4orrmcxkm5nfkp5iamen3xdafbzm2te)
![A protest sign with text and [design] elements:
Turn
Files [PDF file icon]
Into
Trials [scales of justice]](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:xr4me5dbhvzf6yaq4zaqnot6/bafkreihg7u7ucjchkuvyoa5itskudlazhmnl5u7okanz6zflwki6ptumuy)
Andrew Collins
@dripsandcastle.dev
2.2K followers 6K following 246 posts
circumspect introspective scientific #vegan #carfree #flightfree #childfree he/him #CovidIsNotOver #BringBackMasks #CleanAir dripsandcastle.dev ~ Looking for development work with @laravel.com and @filamentphp.com! ~ Grand Rapids, Michigan
![Dear Senator Winnie Brinks,
I am writing to express my strong support for the equality bills currently awaiting action in the Senate, including HB5300, HB5301, HB5302, and HB5303. These measures represent a critical step toward fairness and justice for all Michiganders, particularly for our LGBTQ+ community. It is imperative that they move forward without further delay.
As bill sponsor Rep. Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia) stated, "It comes down to basic humanity ... and not treating certain segments of our population different than everyone else." These bills embody that principle, and their passage would address significant barriers that many individuals face.
... [Details about HB5300-HB5303 removed.] ...
These measures are not just about modernizing administrative processes -- they are about acknowledging the dignity and humanity of all Michiganders. Ensuring that everyone has equitable access to identification and legal recognition is fundamental to fostering a more inclusive Michigan.
I urge you to resolve any outstanding issues and work collaboratively to ensure the passage of this critical legislation. By doing so, Michigan can demonstrate its commitment to equality and justice for all its residents.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your dedication to creating a more equitable state.
Sincerely,
Andrew Collins](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:xr4me5dbhvzf6yaq4zaqnot6/bafkreidaembcuoe5u4anjeh6bbxdgvjjrqoaemor24jcfjtxbcxj4l2o7y)
![Call script with [NAME], [CITY-ZIP-CODE], and [REP-NAME] for caller's name, caller's city/ZIP code, and caller's Representative.
# Introduction
Hello, my name is [NAME], and I'm a constituent from [CITY-ZIP-CODE].
# State Your Purpose
I'm calling to strongly urge Representative [REP-NAME] to change their position and vote NO on HR 9495, the so-called "Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act," when it comes up for a vote tomorrow morning at 10 AM.
# Your Position
I was deeply disappointed to see that Representative [REP-NAME] previously voted in favor of this dangerous legislation. HR 9495 would give the executive branch sweeping, unchecked power to revoke the tax-exempt status of nonprofits without accountability or public justification. This authority could be weaponized to silence dissent and target nonprofits advocating for social justice, human rights, environmental protection, and other vital causes.
As media outlets have reported, the bill uses vague definitions of terrorism that risk criminalizing advocacy work and stifling organizations operating in conflict zones like Gaza or those challenging systemic injustices. Internationally respected groups, including Oxfam and Amnesty International, have warned of the chilling effect this legislation would have on nonprofits working to hold powerful actors accountable.
# Call to Action
A vote for HR 9495 is a vote to erode democracy, free speech, and civil liberties. I urge Representative [REP-NAME] to reconsider their previous vote and stand with their constituents by voting NO tomorrow morning. Protecting the independence of nonprofits and defending democratic principles is essential.
# Closing
Thank you for your time and for Representative [REP-NAME]'s service to our community. I will be closely watching how they vote on this critical issue tomorrow.](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:xr4me5dbhvzf6yaq4zaqnot6/bafkreifh5vvgrc2pp7a64qjv44kjvay5k3drnzcvcrrqdqelmjjzzb4imq)