Healthcare reform: Join us for 'sustained picketing' outside Rep. Costa's office beginning Sept. 21

While Congress has returned to work, and while right-wing disruptions of town-hall meetings have garnered fewer headlines in recent days, the fight for healthcare reform is by no means over. With the finish line getting closer, it's time to dig deep into our 'Be the Change' energy reserve for the coming push.

That push will begin with a 'sustained picketing' demonstration beginning Monday, Sept. 21, outside the Fresno office of Rep. Jim Costa. Despite hearing the voices of his constituents demanding meaningful reform, Rep. Costa remains officially 'on the fence' about President Obama's plan.

A coalition of groups – including the AFL-CIO, SEIU, AARP, the Center for New Americans and many others – plan to keep the pressure on Rep. Costa by conducting this sustained demonstration outside Rep. Costa's Fresno office. The demonstration will take place over lunch hours for the next two to three weeks, and V4CF members are encouraged to participate.

The demonstration's focus and signage will call attention to Rep. Costa's connections with large insurance and pharmaceutical companies. Signage will also encourage people to write their health care stories, as well as to make phone calls to Rep. Costa encouraging his support for meaningful healthcare reform. (Those numbers again? Local: (559) 495-1620, Washington, D.C.: (202) 225-3341)

Want to participate? It's easy! Beginning Monday, Sept. 21, simply show up and join in 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday through Friday outside Rep. Costa's office, 855 M Street in downtown Fresno. Signs will be provided; all you need to bring are quarters (for metered parking), sunscreen or a big hat, and your voice supporting meaningful healthcare reform.

For more information or to register your participation, contact Nancy Griesser via e-mail.