March 7, 2023
The First Step
Hello all, and happy (day-before) International Women's Day.
We are kicking off our public awareness campaign tomorrow with two simple calls to action:
- sign the petition.
- share the petition with your network, using #WomenDrive, #DriveUSForward, and @DriveUSForward.
As our journey for justice begins together, I have a few important reminder to keep in mind.
First, we are inclusive and non-partisan. We aim to work with everybody so long as they are kind, cooperative, and open to all perspectives. The only way we can win this is together.
Second, it is critical to amplify voices of survivors and those who lost loved ones first. This content can be triggering, and it is important to keep the wishes of those who have been affected as a top priority in every situation.
Third, we deal in facts. Every data point that is shared must be proven to be true and accurate. This issue is complicated and emotional, and numbers can easily get confused in mix. However, our integrity and attention to detail is our power, and we must stay vigilant.
Fourth, while we are organized as a non-profit in the state of Maine, we have not yet received official 501(c)(3) status from the IRS. We are therefore able to accept donations as a 501(c)(3), given the caveat that gifts are not yet confirmed as tax-deductible. Similarly, as we operate as a public charity, Drive US Forward does not support any particular candidate for office, nor do we spend greater than 20% of funds on advocacy efforts as defined by the 501(h) election.
Although details are rarely fun, they are crucial for the success of any organization. We are proud to be launching tomorrow, and can't wait to get started. More soon!