LET'S GET TO WORK: Civic action to-do list for 8-7-17

3. Speak Out During Recess

With both houses of Congress in recess for the month of August, now is the perfect opportunity to tell your Representative and Senators about your policy priorities!  You can attend a town hall or call one of their local offices to schedule a meeting. Push for bipartisan healthcare reform, advocate against concealed carry reciprocity, or demand that the Administration continue collecting important data about the wage gap. Take this time to engage with members of Congress about what's important to you!

2. Demand Accountability for Sex Trafficking Websites

A two-year Senate investigation into online sex trafficking found that the website Backpage.com knowingly aids the criminal sex trafficking of women and girls. Current federal law doesn't allow survivors whose abusers used Backpage.com to file lawsuits, even though it is well-established that Backpage facilitates sex trafficking. In an attempt to close this unconscionable loophole, a bipartisan group of Senators has introduced the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA).  Call your Senators and tell them to co-sponsor this bill to make it clear that websites like Backpage should be held accountable!

1. Stand Up for Paid Family Leave

Only one in three employees in the United States has access to paid parental leave, reports a new study published by the Kaiser Family Foundation. The study also shines a light on the large gap in access to paid sick days that leaves part-time workers at a great disadvantage. This disparity is indefensible - every new parent deserves paid time off. The Family And Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act would guarantee this right to every American. Call on your elected officials to sponsor the FAMILY Act!

And for you... 

If you haven't given much thought yet to the impending solar eclipse, NASA is here to help you plan your viewing; the New York Times recommends some reading material for historical context; and Bonnie Tyler has you covered for a soundtrack to this once-in-a-lifetime event. Protect your eyes, and prepare to be amazed!