6May, 2025
    Indivisible.org

    Rescue Our Democracy Is Now an Official Indivisible.org Group!

    We are excited to announce that Rescue Our Democracy (ROD) has officially become a recognized group within Indivisible.org!

    This milestone marks a turning point for our grassroots movement. Partnering with Indivisible.org means we now have access to essential infrastructure and long-term support. In addition, we gain a shared bank account operated through Indivisible’s trusted financial system. This not only strengthens our accountability but also ensures transparency as we grow.

    One of the biggest reliefs? Indivisible.org will handle all tax-related responsibilities on behalf of ROD. For those of us organizing on limited incomes or navigating complex systems like disability benefits, this kind of support removes barriers that would otherwise prevent participation. With this partnership, we can stay focused on organizing, collaborating, and empowering communities—without worrying about administrative red tape.

    Funding will be available to help support the community events and outreach efforts we believe in. We’ll remain completely autonomous in our goals and mission, while receiving the backing of a national movement that truly understands the importance of grassroots resistance.

    From the beginning, ROD was born out of a desire to push forward—to build something local, authentic, and deeply connected to real people. Becoming part of Indivisible.org means that our work now ties into a larger national effort to protect democracy from the ground up.

    We’re proud to continue on this path, knowing we are not alone. We’re supported by a network of passionate, justice-driven advocates who share our values. With gratitude and determination, we move forward—stronger, louder, and more unified than ever.

    Let the work continue. This storm is just getting started.

    —
    The Rescue Our Democracy Team

    5May, 2025
    Site move, complete!

    Our apologies for any confusion there!

    I had to do some rearranging on the back-end of my web hosting service. Focusing on this site and one other I run for a friend’s clothing business. Took down my web hosting company site.

    In the process, my back up got all weird.

    So I have had to do the site and all edits over…Then the theme itself was not working.

    Checked other themes out for a moment and then finally resorted to using a back-up from before the rearranging and upload it, then do the edits there.

    Everything’s good to go!

    My apologies for confusion as I was trying to get this working correctly again!

    5May, 2025
    Thank you!

    Thank you.

    Today wasn’t about numbers—it was about connection. And in that, it was a complete success.

    Eight brave souls stayed, and each brought something powerful: their stories, their convictions, and their willingness to be seen and heard. We had honest conversations about why we’re here, what we’re fighting for, and how we move forward—together.

    One attendee told me they felt truly heard for the first time. That moment alone made it all worth it.

    This movement isn’t about shouting over each other. Instead, it’s about listening, lifting one another up, and forming something stronger—with intention and unity.

    Because of today, I now know: I am not a lone raindrop. We are forming the storm.

    To everyone who came: thank you. You helped launch something different—something deeply human. And for those who couldn’t make it, there will be more opportunities to engage, build, and grow.

    We each have our own assignments in the fight to instigate real change within our government. Thank you for believing in this new, action-based, connection-driven movement.

    I look forward to seeing many of you at our first meeting next Sunday.

    You honor me. You honor your nation. You honor your state. Most of all, you honor the people you are fighting for.

    For this, we offer our undying gratitude.

    Keep watching. Keep connecting. Keep showing up.

    1May, 2025
    Privacy Policy!

    DO NOT SUBMIT, JOIN A NEWSLETTER, COMMENT, JOIN AS A CONTRIBUTOR, OR DONATE MONIES ON A SITE THAT HAS NO PRIVACY POLICY POSTED PUBLICLY.

    You have no idea what they are doing with that information.

    Some folks took issue with our very basic privacy practices—like logging IPs when someone leaves a comment. That’s normal. That’s standard. That’s how you stop bots, trolls, and spam.

    We were denied the ability to coordinate efforts and work together over this.

    And here’s the kicker: We were criticized for having a privacy policy at all. Meanwhile, many groups don’t even have one. That’s not okay.

    Rescue Our Democracy is doing this the right way. We are transparent, we are accountable, and we won’t compromise our standards just to fit in.

    You’re stealing my information!

    No I am not.

    So before you make yourself look as though you are completely lacking knowledge…as the national group and local groups have…

    Yes, I do need to have a privacy policy on my website — and I do. Even though I’m based in Iowa, privacy rules apply if I collect any personal information from any visitor, not just Iowans. That includes things like:

    • Names
    • Email addresses
    • IP addresses
    • Comment content
    • Contributor sign-ups or logins

    Federal and international laws apply if someone from outside Iowa visits the site. For example:

    • CalOPPA (California law) requires a privacy policy for any site that collects info from California residents.
    • Colorado Privacy Act (CPA) requires a privacy policy for any site that collects info from Colorado residents.
    • GDPR (European law) protects users in the EU and UK — and applies even to U.S. websites if they get international traffic.
      • Yes, I have that far of a reach
    • Other countries like Canada and Australia have similar laws.
      • Here too

    Iowa itself doesn’t currently have a comprehensive state privacy law like California, but that doesn’t mean I’m off the hook. Because my site collects data like newsletter sign-ups, comments and contributor posts, I still have a legal and ethical responsibility to be transparent. That’s why I’ve posted a privacy policy that explains:

    • What info is collected
    • Why it’s collected
    • How it’s used
    • What rights users have
    • How long it’s stored
    • Where to contact us

    As for removing content: I don’t have to take down comments or posts just because they’re on the site — as long as they don’t contain private, identifying information that someone didn’t agree to share publicly.

    But if someone posts personal data (like their real name, phone number, or address) and later asks me to remove it — or if they didn’t consent to it being posted (not possible if they did it themselves – they consented and I am not in the habit of posting people’s gossip) — I would absolutely take it down. That’s both the respectful thing to do and the legally smart one. With only exceptions being for harassing and defaming comments, those are left up as proof of people’s true colors and for reference for any legal questions later.

    It’s called being transparent.

    By the way, when you hit the submit button, you ARE consenting.

    I want my site to be a safe, transparent space, and I take user privacy seriously — even in Iowa.

    I know what I need to about websites. I have done this for 27 years.

    Educate before you falsely accuse, again…as seems to be the habit of this particular group of folks.

    30Apr, 2025
    ROD Intro Video

    …has been attempted.

    This is not my strong suit. My apologies for the elementary nature of the video.

    Here’s the first attempt at a ROD Intro Video:

    23Apr, 2025
    Meet Shade Burgs – Author, Veteran, and Lifelong Advocate

    Follow his Bluesky

    It’s my absolute pleasure to introduce a man who has my unwavering respect—not just as a decorated combat veteran, small business owner, and gifted writer, but as my real-life best friend. Shade Burgs is now an official contributor to Rescue Our Democracy (ROD), and I couldn’t be more proud to have his voice join ours.

    Born and raised in Iowa, Shade has lived through and stood firm in some of life’s most unrelenting battles—both on the frontlines in service to this country, and right here at home, in the fight for truth, justice, and common sense. His perspective is grounded, unflinching, and always from the heart. He doesn’t write to impress—he writes to challenge, to connect, and to call things exactly as they are.

    As a decorated combat veteran, Shade brings a level of lived experience and integrity that cuts through the noise. As a small business owner, he knows the grit it takes to build something real in a system that often seems designed to keep everyday people down. And as a writer, he weaves insight and honesty into every sentence.

    Shade’s contributions will be raw, informed, and rooted in a deep love for community and country—not the kind sold on bumper stickers, but the kind that shows up, speaks out, and fights for a better future.

    Please join me in welcoming him to the ROD author team. I’m honored to stand beside him.

    You can read his first article and all contributions for the world here:

    23Apr, 2025
    A Box of Spiders

    An Opinion piece by Shade Burgs

    Follow his Bluesky

    Let’s talk about a of a box of spiders.

    A lot of people are trying to encourage forgiveness and acceptance for those who now regret voting for Emperor Peach Palpatine. Others are wondering why Black people are sitting comfortably, watching the chaos unfold under the newly elected Turd Reich.

    I’ll explain it a little with this:

    If someone walks into a room full of people where there’s a box full of spiders, and everyone in the room says, “Hey, don’t open that box—it’s full of spiders,” and they respond with:

    “Well, they might not be poisonous.”

    Then all the Black people in the room explain in great detail exactly what spiders are in the box, how poisonous they are, and the person replies:

    “Well, you don’t know what you’re talking about because you’re Black, so you’re just scared they’ll bite you.”

    There’s also a big red sign on the box that reads:
    “DO NOT OPEN — CONTAINS POISONOUS SPIDERS.”
    But they proceed to open the box anyway—and they get bitten.

    Now, everyone scrambles to help. Some people start actively killing spiders, risking getting bitten themselves. Others tend to the wounded, trying to make sure they don’t die. But ultimately, everyone has the same reaction:

    “WHY THE HELL DID YOU DO THAT?”

    Then, the person starts spinning every excuse imaginable for their actions:
    “Spiders eat other bugs,” or they start flexing nonsensical Republican talking points that have no relevance to the situation, like “Technically, there are more spiders on Earth than people,” or even “I didn’t believe there were spiders in the box.”


    They’ll say anything to deflect—from the absurd to the irrelevant—because the truth is, they didn’t believe the spiders would bite them, just everyone else.


    This happens so often to the Black community and people of color in general that we’re tired of treating wounds and risking bites. We knew they would open the box anyway. It’s time to hold people accountable for their reckless behavior that affects all of us.

    White people have continuously opened the box—then blamed everyone and everything else for the spiders they unleash into our lives. And somehow, they spin the consequences into being the responsibility of the very people who told them not to open the damn box in the first place.

    23Apr, 2025
    May the 4th Be With You

    May 1, there will be an Iowa Coalition/50501 May Day protest.

    Not everyone can do a weekday event like this. For those who can’t, I got you! Our protest is about the Battle 4 Democracy. This incorporates all things that we are fighting for, veterans benefits to trans rights. If we do not have a democracy, none of the rest matters.

    Been planning this since the beginning of March, tried to reach out to other groups to join, so here we go!

    A great disturbance in the Force has been felt, and the Battle for Our Democracy is upon us! On Sunday, May 4th, from 12-2 PM, join us for a peaceful protest led by RescueOurDemocracy.com. No need for Jedi robes or Sith armor (but welcomed!), you may come as you are and stand with the light side against the creeping darkness.

    🚀 This Is the Way (To Protest)

    Forces of corruption, greed, and oppression are growing stronger. The dark side seeks to control voting rights, attack marginalized communities, and ignore the will of the people. We say NO to authoritarian rule. We say YES to justice, fairness, and a future where democracy thrives. Fight against everything the First Order, or the Turd Reich as seems to be the popular term these days!

    STAY ON THE SIDEWALK! DO NOT BLOCK SIDEWALK TRAFFIC! (you risk being arrested otherwise)

    We bring our Storm to them.

    The Battle for Our Democracy will not be won in a single day, but every peaceful act of resistance strengthens the Rebellion. Whether you’re a Jedi Master of activism or a Padawan just beginning your journey, your presence matters.

    🛑 Leave Your Blasters at Home—This Is a Peaceful Protest

    Violence is not the way of the Jedi. Our power lies in unity, in our voices, and in the undeniable strength of the people. If needed, we shall defend ourselves and our democracy. Together, we will show the dark side that democracy is for the people, by the people, and will not fall without a fight.

    ⚡ The Republic Needs You!

    The Empire didn’t fall in a day, and neither will the forces threatening our rights. But through peaceful protest, awareness, and action, we can ensure that the light side prevails. Join us, bring your friends, and let’s make it clear: the Battle for Our Democracy is not over—and we refuse to let it be lost.

    REMINDER: STAY ON THE SIDEWALK! DO NOT BLOCK SIDEWALK TRAFFIC! (you risk being arrested otherwise)

    Register with us now!

    May the 4th be with you, always.

    23Apr, 2025
    Official ROD Schwag

    🎉 Welcome to the Official RescueOurDemocracy Shop! 🛍️
    Where passion meets print, and your wardrobe gets a side of activism.

    Here, every shirt tells a story — of protest, of purpose, of power. Whether you’re marching the streets or making your voice heard online, our original designs speak loudly (so you don’t always have to).

    🧾 Why the price tag?
    We’ve marked up items just 30%, which helps us:

    • Cover branding inserts (because presentation matters 🎁)
    • Handle the minimum tax threshold Printify suggests — 24% (yep, even activism has fine print)
    • Keep this mission alive, independent, and growing 💪
    • Admittedly, we cannot afford Printify Premium for their discounted products

    This isn’t about fast fashion — it’s about fast action, bold statements, and building a community that looks as fearless as it feels.

    Thanks for supporting indie resistance gear made with purpose. Rock it loud. Rock it proud. And remember…

    🌀 Style is temporary. Democracy is forever.

    22Apr, 2025
    Peeps Needed

    Hello peeps!

    I hope you had a wonderful Easter holiday weekend with your family and friends!

    Today I want to talk about what we need here at Rescue Our Democracy. I am but one person, as you all know.

    I started this site in the effort to try to unite the Iowa activism with this administration. I also had a protest idea that I wanted to get in place and going. I asked for other groups to join me in this effort.

    In my exposure to the grassroots side of things here, with the encouragement of my first volunteer, I think that we will offer our own events occasionally. For this we will need peeps.

    We do want to work in concert WITH other organizations so we don’t overwhelm the public. If you would like to work with us, so there are no scheduling conflicts, please email me directly at info@rescueourdemocracy.com today!

    What we are looking for right now

    🔷 Leadership & Strategy

    These roles help shape the vision and keep things moving forward.

    • Deputy Organizer – A right-hand person; helps manage volunteers, meetings, internal comms. Availability and communication skills are a MUST.
    • Strategic Advisor(s) – Trusted mentors or experienced people to consult on direction

    🔷 Operations & Logistics

    These folks keep the train on the tracks during actions and events.

    • Event Planner / Field Organizer – Plans protests, meetings, rallies.
    • Volunteer Coordinator – Recruits, trains, and organizes volunteers.
    • Legal Contact / Advisor – Helps you stay compliant, understands permits, rights, and liabilities.
    • Safety / Security Lead – Manages de-escalation, medical needs, protest safety.
    • Accessibility Coordinator – Ensures events and materials are inclusive to people with disabilities and marginalized groups.

    🔷 Media & Communications

    These roles shape our message and make sure it reaches people.

    • Communications Director – Crafts public messaging, statements, press releases.
    • Press Liaison – Builds relationships with local and national journalists.

    🔷 Outreach & Partnerships

    Building bridges and alliances is essential.

    • Community Outreach Lead – Builds relationships with other groups, including protests and coalitions.
    • Fundraising / Grant Contact – Brings in funds through donations or grant writing.
    • Legislative / Policy Liaison – Tracks local/state/national policies that align with our goals and alerts our base.
    • Education & Resources Lead – Develops guides, protest 101 docs, how-tos, FAQs.

    🔷 Supportive Roles

    We need your support to get this democracy rescued.

    • Moderator / Content Reviewer – Reviews public-facing materials for tone, accuracy, inclusivity.
    • Data Manager – Maintains contact databases, sign-ups, volunteer lists, polls.
    • Creative Contributors – Writers, poets, musicians, photographers who align with our cause.
    • Wellness Lead – Offers burnout-prevention resources and emotional support ideas for volunteers.

    Later on…

    • Treasurer / Financial Contact – If we ever take in money or file as a nonprofit, this becomes essential.
    • Archivist / Historian – Documents our work for credibility and legacy.
    • Legality Monitor – Ensures protest activity adheres to city/state rules, works with the Legal Contact.

    If you can help in any of the above areas, please get in touch with me as soon as possible! We need peeps!

    Thank you all for your amazing support! (We’re 3 weeks old – your response has been incredible!)

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