A new way to send a message..

So, here's my proposal, which I've already shared privately with some of you. How about we change tactics? Instead of protesting solely at prisons or homes like Diaz or Newsom, how about we ALL go to the office if Nancy Skinner, but instead of signs calling for her removal, how about signs THANKING her for attempting to hold CDCR and CCHCS accountable? Can you imagine the reaction we'd get if several hundred people all showed up with signs THANKING somebody for their efforts. We show up in mass to bitch, moan and groan, for good reason, but not to say thanks.

So, what would this do? For starters, it would send a very clear message. We're here to say thanks, and if we cared enough to drive all this way for that, we'd certainly vote for you come election. Secondly, do you really think a politician, ANY politician, is going to pass up an opportunity to get some valuable media attention from an opportunity like this? Hell no. My guess is she'll call her own contacts on the media and make the most out of this unexpected opportunity, which helps everyone's cause. And seeing this, what do you think other legislatures are going to do? They'll definitely take note, for starters, and with any luck, they'll remember it the next time a orison related issue is before them.

When you speak with her, designate a single person to speak for the group. Somebody articulate, polite, but assertive. Have a goal in mind that centers on 4 things. First, thank her for what she's done, second, explain what you'd like to see done (within reason), third, ask what she's already got planned and how you can help, and finally, ask for the name if a Senator who's standing in your/her way, somebody who might be persuaded by a protest. When you get that name, go to their office and marketing voices heard. They'll find out that you're serious, and when they learn you're just as willing to show up and say thanks, and vote, they'll see you in a whole new light.

I'd also suggest having ALL of your loved ones write letters of thanks to Me. Skinner for her role in the recent Senate hearing. Were it not for that, things here would be so much worse. We wouldn't bee seeing these early releases or these 12 week kicks. Bring all of these letters with you and present them in a gift box, something she could keep displayed as momento. Something people would see and ask about, something to keep us at the forefront of her mind.