MENSTRUAL EQUITY

Since 2018, the Sisterhood together with the National Council of Jewish Women has been working to pass a law that would mandate public schools to provide free menstrual products in all restrooms. Rep. Sandra Feist, DFL-New Brighton, was the chief sponsor for the bill and worked tirelessly with teenage girls across Minnesota as they gave numerous passionate testimonies in both House and Senate hearings. The passage of this law not only ensures easy access to menstrual products but has also normalized conversations around periods and hopefully ends the stigma girls face when they menstruate.

COMBATING HATE

Since 2019, the Sisterhood has been working in a Combating Hate Coalition with several other organizations in Minnesota to pass this bill. This law requires state agencies to consult with communities who are most targeted by hate crimes to create anti-bias trainings for law enforcement. This law also requires law enforcement agencies to differentiate between general property crimes motivated by hate, which is especially important as Minnesota has already seen six attacks on masjids in 2023.

RESTORE THE VOTE

This bill was first introduced by Attorney General Keith Ellison in 2003 when he was a State Representative. Rep. Cedrick Frazier, DFL-New Hope, and Sen. Bobby Joe Champion, DFL-Minneapolis, carried the bill at the Capitol this year. And they credited former lawmakers for bringing the bill again and again at the Capitol. Now that it is a law, it is expected to make 50,000 or more people convicted of felonies but still “on paper” — serving out probation or parole — eligible to vote. It’s the largest voting rights expansion the state has seen in decades. The implementation of the Restore the Vote law is June 1st, 2023.

NONPROFIT INFRASTRUCTURE

RISE supported the Nonprofit Infrastructure Grant Program (NIGP) bill to be passed by giving a testimony at a house hearing. This legislation will invest $4 million over the next two years to support small, culturally specific organizations that serve historically underserved communities.

Reviving Sisterhood’s annual Eid with Electeds is a celebration and an opportunity for our sisters to come together with our representatives. At our 2024 Eid with Electeds, we were joined by state senators, state representatives, city council members, judges, and more. We shared our goals for the future and broke bread, and can’t wait to do so again! We also want to extend a special invitation for you to join our Whatsapp group, where you can connect with our Sisterhood and stay up to date about future events and opportunities.

Use this interactive tool to find your State House, State Senate, and Congressional districts by simply entering your address. Stay informed and connect with your elected officials today!

Stay informed about Minnesota's legislative activities! The Combined Legislative Meeting Calendar offers a comprehensive schedule of House and Senate meetings, including committees, joint sessions, and task forces. By visiting this centralized resource, you can easily track legislative events and participate in the democratic process.

The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page provides clear answers on topics like legislative structure, functions, and processes. Whether you're a student, educator, or engaged citizen, this resource enhances your understanding of state governance.

Email Template to Legislators

Subject: Support for [Bill Name/Number]

Dear [Legislator’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Role/Community Member/Constituent] from [Your City/District]. I am writing to express my strong support for [Bill Name/Number], which [briefly describe what the bill does].

This bill is important to me because [personal reason or impact]. Passing this legislation would [explain the broader benefits].

I urge you to support [Bill Name/Number] and to advocate for its passage in committee and on the floor. Please let me know your position on this issue. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further.

Thank you for your time and service.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Contact Information]

Phone Call Script for Legislators’ Offices

Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am a constituent from [Your City/District].

I’m calling to ask [Legislator’s Name] to support [Bill Name/Number], which [briefly explain what the bill does]. This issue is important to me because [personal reason or impact].

Can you tell me where [Legislator’s Name] stands on this bill?

[Pause for response]

Thank you for your time. I appreciate your consideration, and I hope [Legislator’s Name] will support [Bill Name/Number].

Testimony Outline for Public Hearings

Introduction:

    •    State your name and where you live.

    •    Mention any relevant role (community member, organization, expert, etc.).

Statement of Support or Opposition:

    •    Clearly state whether you support or oppose the bill.

    •    Briefly describe the bill’s purpose.

Personal Story or Data:

    •    Share a personal story OR relevant statistics that support your position.

    •    Explain how the bill would impact your community.

Call to Action:

    •    Urge legislators to support/oppose the bill.

    •    Thank them for their time and consideration.

Closing:

    •    Offer to answer any questions.

Stay informed about Minnesota’s legislative process by tracking bills in real time! Search by bill number, author, or topic, and sign up for "MyBills" to receive alerts on important updates. Don’t miss key legislative actions.