July 20 Updates

Sunday's event reminded us why community matters. We gathered to remember lives lost, stood together in compassion, and renewed our commitment to building a more just future. Now we carry that spirit forward—supporting our immigrant neighbors and showing up for transparency at Tuesday's BOCC meeting.

Upcoming:

July 21: BOCC Protest

July 24: Rush Hour Resistance

July 26: Pens to Power in-person event

July 30: Voices & Views book club

Memorial Recap: Light for Those We Have Lost

On Sunday afternoon, Washington County Indivisible gathered at Eliza's House for Light for Those We Have Lost, a memorial honoring those who have died or gone missing as a result of ICE detention and immigration enforcement.

The afternoon was one of remembrance, reflection, and hope. Community members came together to listen to moving speakers and powerful original poetry while finding strength in one another's commitment to justice.

Dave Williams presented a touching slideshow honoring the individuals whose lives were remembered, alongside information highlighting the human impact of today's immigration policies. Original poems by Titilayo and Alva Moses, written especially for the occasion were read aloud. We were also grateful to hear inspiring remarks from Pastor Mac and HARC President Kathy Powderly.

While we paused to remember those we have lost, the gathering also reminded us that our work continues. Together, we recommitted ourselves to building a community rooted in compassion, dignity, and justice for all.

Visit the Washington County Indivisible website this week at www.wcindivisible.com to view a slideshow from the memorial and learn more about the event.

Stand for Transparency on Tuesday at the BOCC

Tuesday, July 21 | 9:00 AM​
​Washington County Administration Building​
​100 W. Washington St., Hagerstown

Join Washington County Indivisible and Hagerstown Rapid Response as we continue calling for transparency and accountability from our County Commissioners.

This week's meeting comes at an important moment. Community members are urging Commissioners to address concerns surrounding the proposed ICE detention warehouse while also asking them to take a thoughtful approach to future data center development in Washington County. Organizers say both issues deserve meaningful public discussion and community input—not decisions made behind closed doors.

Our continued presence has already made a difference. Thanks to sustained public engagement, the County recently extended its proposed data center moratorium from six months to twelve months. Every person who shows up helps demonstrate that our community is paying attention and expects transparency from its elected leaders.

Bring a friend, bring a sign, and stand with your neighbors as we continue advocating for a Washington County that puts people, accountability, and community first.

Immigration Hotline: DMV Accompaniment Network (DAN)

No one should have to face an immigration check-in alone.

The DMV Accompaniment Network (DAN) is a coalition of volunteers across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia that provides physical and emotional support for immigrants attending ICE appointments, immigration check-ins, and court proceedings. Volunteers offer a reassuring presence, language and logistical support, and help ensure that community members are not facing these moments in isolation.

DAN estimates that 10–15 immigrants are detained each day during ICE and ISAP check-ins in the DMV region. Most did not have an ally with them.

Need accompaniment?​
​DAN Hotline: 202-335-1183

Interested in becoming a volunteer? Contact Donald Donoghue at ddonoghue99@gmail.com.

For additional information and services, explore the DC, Maryland & Virginia Immigrant Resource Guide:
​https://migrant-resources-dmv.my.canva.site/english​

Pens to Power

Our next Pens to Power writing event will be held on Sunday, July 26, from 1:00–4:00 PM.

We'll continue preparing for our fall general election voter outreach campaign, and as always, we'll be collecting donations for Western Maryland IRC and/or Eliza's House. If you're able, please bring non-perishable or microwaveable food, rice, peanut butter, bread, jelly, or personal hygiene items.

Please RSVP to alicejimroberts@gmail.com for the address and to help us plan seating and supplies.

Next WCI Rush Hour Resistance

Meet us on the Appalachian Trail bridge on Friday, July 24 at 4:30 PM to help set up, or stop by before 6:00 PM to wave. Our letters aren't waterproof, so we cancel if it's raining.

If you have any suggestions for the message, please send them ASAP! Keep it to 30 characters (including spaces) or less.

Email Dave Williams at dwilliams21783@gmail.com for more information.

For photos, videos, and a video celebrating our one-year anniversary, visit this link:

Voices & Views Book Club

Thursday, July 30 | 6:00 PM​
​Hub City Brewery​
25 W. Church St., Hagerstown

Join us for a discussion of Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor. New members are always welcome! Haven't finished—or even started—the book? No problem. Come for the conversation, meet new people, and enjoy a thoughtful evening together.

Questions or RSVP:​
​Delia.Zielinski@gmail.com​