Free Speech Lives On
Jimmy Kimmel Live! returned to the air on Tuesday, after a nearly week-long suspension. The move came after Disney reportedly lost more than $3.8 billion in market share when Disney+ and Hulu members canceled their subscriptions. Filmmakers protested Disney studios, and more than 400 stars, including some Disney stars, signed a letter from the ACLU calling out Disney for its decision to cave to threats from FCC Chair Brendan Carr preemptively. Even Ted Cruz came out against Brendan Carr’s comments and the Trump administration’s threats.
Disney/ABC and Jimmy Kimmel confirmed there were no restrictions or demands as a condition of Jimmy Kimmel Live!’s return to the air.
But the fight for the First Amendment wasn’t over. Local station owners Nexstar and Sinclair (which owns KOMO-TV in Seattle) still refused to air Jimmy Kimmel Live!, inspiring a wave of calls, emails, protests, and boycotts from First Amendment defenders. Seattle Indivisible launched peaceful “Suck it Sinclair” protests outside KOMO-TV’s offices, and local viewers, advertisers, and community leaders joined in pushing back. We won, and free speech won. Sinclair backed down, followed by Nexstar, and by Friday, Jimmy Kimmel was back on the air on KOMO-TV and on ABC affiliates nationwide.
And if you missed that wonderful monologue on the first night he returned to the air, do check it out above.
This story is proof that the policies of Project 2025 and the Trump administration are deeply unpopular, and the resistance is growing. It’s also an excellent reminder for us that non-violent, non-compliant actions work. Organizing against the pillars that prop up authoritarianism works. We, the people, still have the power to effect change, and we can do so without resorting to violence. Even in this era of extreme political polarization, we can find common ground to work together for democracy and change.
With this massive victory fresh in mind, here are some things you can do this week to support the cause.
No Kings 2
In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings
Saturday, October 18th, 11:00AM – 1:00PM
On Northwest Sammamish Road between Pickering Barn and the I-90 overpass at Exit 15.
Note that this is a new location from our first No Kings event.
With over 2000 events registered nationwide and more to come, we are on track to making this the largest peaceful protest in US history! Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.
Bring your friends, your family, and your neighbors to this peaceful event with your signs, costumes, and other creative props. Register to get updates and details closer to the event.
Watch for a NO KINGS specific email later this week with resources so you can help us spread the word, sign up to volunteer, and make a donation to help us cover our costs.
Volunteers Needed
Help us show that WE THE PEOPLE say NO KINGS!
We are looking for volunteers to organize groups of 8-10 people from all walks of life and any line of work, life stage, or interest – such as teachers, government workers, retirees, artists, clergy, runners, doctors, etc.- to hold signs representing your group. Contact us at indivisiblewa8@gmail.com for more information and/or to let us know what group you’ll represent!
Safety and De-escalation Training
Wednesday, October 1st, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Join the Rallies and Protest Committee for an in-person, hands-on workshop on de-escalation techniques and crowd control (keeping all people safe).
Register here: https://www.mobilize.us/indivisiblewashingtons8thdistrict-1/event/848650/
Can’t make this in-person event? There is a virtual training from National and Move On next Thursday October 9th at 6:00.
Register for that one here: https://www.mobilize.us/moveon/event/842897/
The October 9th training is a repeat of the training offered September 25th, which you can watch online here:
Talk with a Friend Cards
Due October 1st
Friendly reminder: If you have outstanding Talk with a Friend Cards, they are due on October 1st.
Please do not remove the perforated section of the card.
Contact our general mailbox, indivisiblewa8@gmail.com and put “attention Carol” in the subject line if you have any questions.
October Community Meeting
Saturday October 11th
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Join us for our regularly scheduled monthly meeting, at the Issaquah Valley Senior Center, just one week out from NO KINGS 2, so we can get ready together!
Our regular meeting will be short as we’ll be making signs for the NO KINGS 2 rally on the 18th. Bring a friend, and if possible, your own sign-making supplies.
Registration is not required, but encouraged: https://www.mobilize.us/indivisiblewashingtons8thdistrict-1/event/840214/
