The Maine Dems unequivocally believe that Black Lives Matter. We recognize that substantial action is necessary to address systemic racism and violence, both here in Maine and across the nation. This page is intended as a guide to resources for community members and allies. If any information on this page is inaccurate, needs updating, or you have any other concerns you want to voice, please email us at info@mainedems.org or fill out this anonymous feedback form.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ad-Hoc committee

The Maine Democratic Party respects and values diverse life experiences and heritages and must do more to ensure that all voices are valued, heard, and represented within our party. Fostering real organizational change on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is not only directly aligned with our mission of electing more Democrats, but it is also our responsibility to live the values we promote as transformative and beneficial for all. By creating a permanent DEI Committee within MDP we are committing to this work in perpetuity which will make the party more reflective of the communities we serve, make our local committees (and HQ) more accessible, and increase our ability to source high-quality talent from a larger talent pool. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is our competitive advantage.

The ad hoc committee is TEMPORARY and will be exclusively focused on the work detailed below. Appointment on the ad hoc committee does not guarantee or require a position on the permanent committee.

The committee will be tasked with developing a written action plan/framework which outlines the goals, actions, timelines, and resources needed to build, implement, and execute the permanent DEI committee. This strategic planning process includes, but is not limited to, determining what the DEI committee does (and does not do), who serves and for how long, how it operates within the larger MDP ecosystem, how it is codified in MDP governing documents, what oversight responsibility and accountability mechanisms it has/needs, what demographic or other assessments are needed to inform their work, and if additional resources (money, professional skills, training, etc.) are needed in order for the committee to fulfill its charge.

The MDP is accepting "applications" from individuals who are interested in serving on the ad hoc committee. Interested parties must be registered, Democrats. Those with experience creating organizations, and/or organizational infrastructure, developing strategic plans, and/or navigating complex problems should apply. Experience can be personal or professional; formal, or informal.

Apply to join the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ad-Hoc committee before the deadline on Wednesday, 2/24.

ACT

Take Action Safely.

If you are participating in protests, remember to wear a mask at all times and do your best to maintain a safe social distancing radius of 6’ around yourself. COVID-19 is disproportionately impacting Black, Indigenous, and People Of Color in Maine and it’s all of our responsibility to help keep all Maine residents safe and healthy.

Protest and Take Action.

This list is actively curated and is being consistently updated. Check back frequently!

Before you go, learn your rights as a protestor from the ACLU, follow civil disobedience best practices developed by ACT UP NY, and review the DNC’s Organizing Resources.

If you find yourself needing legal assistance, please see this tweet by Tina Neadeau (aka Tina Heat), the Executive Director of the Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. They have dozens of criminal defense attorneys who want to help.

Vote.

Read Stacey Abrams: I Know Voting Feels Inadequate Right Now. Maine’s Primary Election is on July 14th, and the General Election is on November 3rd. To learn about your voting rights, visit VoteInMaine.com.

SUPPORT

Buy.

Before your next purchase take a look at this directory of Black-owned businesses, maintained by Black Owned Maine. You can also find Black Owned Maine on Facebook.

You can also check out blackownedeverything.co and register any missing Black-owned businesses there!

Engage.

These are some organizations led by and/or serving BIPOC Maine people. These organizations are not necessarily affiliated with the Maine Democratic Party.

ACLU Maine: Website | Facebook

Black Girl in Maine: Website | Facebook

Capital Area New Mainers Project: Website | Facebook

Empower the Immigrant Woman: Facebook

For Us, By Us Fund: Website | Facebook

Gateway Community Services Maine: Website | Facebook

Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP): Website | Facebook

Immigrant Welcome Center: Website | Facebook

King Fellows: Facebook

Maine Equal Justice Partners: Website | Facebook

Maine Immigrant and Refugee Services: Website | Facebook

Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition: Website | Facebook | Helpful guide to organizations within MIRC ecosystem.