Placer Perspectives, our writing group, formed in 2021. The intent was to organize an effort to share our Democratic ideas and opinions through letters to the editor in our local publications and on social media. Through Zoom seminars, I shared the strategies I’ve used since 2017 to get my letters to the editor published in newspapers throughout the CD4 Congressional District. I began by showing how to write letters that get published, how to use social media to amplify those opinions, and how to combat disinformation. The effort grew and became a multicounty initiative. The name Writers Alliance was chosen for the overall organization, with each county having its own group within the alliance. Our county group is known as Placer Perspectives.
The original structure of the group included individual task groups—county coordinators, writers, editors, researchers, responders/social media. Many volunteers were part of more than one task group. The commitment asked from each writer was one letter/per month, to be posted on social media whether or not the letter was published in a local newspaper(s). A copy of those letters was submitted to the county coordinator, who monitored for publication, and also forwarded a copy to me for social media posting.
Initially we had good participation throughout CD4, but the continuing pandemic and the 2021 recall derailed our focus. Redistricting divided the participants of the Writers Alliance and there was limited coordination in 2022. Now that we have a new district with new counties to incorporate, I’m seeking to revitalize our efforts here in Placer and the entire CD3.
At a recent meeting, our group members focused on our 2023 plans. After discussing several possibilities, a consensus was reached on an overall writing theme of Accountability. Given our new GOP elected officials, CD3 Kevin Kiley, Assembly and State Senate representatives, AD5 Joe Patterson and SD6 Roger Niello, we pledged to keep a close eye on the voting records and the rhetoric of these individuals. Kiley, in particular, will likely provide many opportunities to point out the hypocrisy of his words and actions. By keeping these individuals accountable, we can also combat disinformation and advance our Democratic policies and values.
The local school boards, with new hardline fringe candidates replacing many incumbents, will also need to be held accountable for their words and actions. The Placer Board of Supervisors has traditionally curried the favor of developers and slow walked meaningful action for county residents. Keeping an eye on their votes, especially on issues of local concern like homelessness, climate change mitigation, and transportation and housing density, will be important.
Look for our efforts in local publications and on social media. Share our message and help us build our influence. If you are interested in joining our efforts, as a writer or an editor (or both) please email me at pcdp.cec@gmail.com.