Green Party of PA Endorses Rural-Urban Transit for All
Green Party of Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, December 5, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader
267-977-0570 and [email protected]
Green Party of PA Endorses Rural-Urban Transit for All
On November 21, the Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA) Steering Committee decided by consensus to endorse Rural-Urban Transit for All.
In an increasingly interconnected world, the disparity between rural and urban areas remains a significant challenge. One of the most critical aspects of this divide is transportation. While urban centers often boast extensive public transit systems, rural communities are frequently underserved, leading to isolation, limited opportunities, and hindered economic development. "Rural-Urban Transit for All" is not just a slogan; it's a necessity for creating equitable and sustainable communities.
The consequences of inadequate rural transit are far-reaching. Access to employment, healthcare, education, and essential services becomes a daily struggle for many rural residents. Imagine a single parent in a rural area trying to reach a better-paying job in the city, only to be stymied by the lack of a dependable bus route. Or consider an elderly individual needing regular medical check-ups, forced to rely on infrequent and expensive private transportation. These scenarios highlight the urgent need for improved rural-urban transit. Moreover, the lack of transportation options contributes to social isolation, mental health issues, and a reduced quality of life. Economically, it restricts the flow of goods, services, and labor, hindering the growth of rural businesses and perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage. Environmentally, the reliance on private vehicles in the absence of public transit leads to increased carbon emissions and contributes to climate change.
Addressing the rural-urban transit gap requires a multi-faceted approach that considers the unique characteristics of rural communities. Unlike densely populated urban areas, rural regions are characterized by dispersed populations, longer distances, and varying topographies. A one-size-fits-all solution is simply not viable. Instead, a combination of innovative strategies and tailored solutions is needed. This includes investing in flexible transit options such as on-demand shuttles, ride-sharing programs, and community carpools. These services can be particularly effective in areas with low population density, providing a cost-efficient and convenient way to connect residents to urban centers. Additionally, leveraging technology is crucial. Mobile apps and real-time tracking systems can improve the efficiency and accessibility of rural transit, allowing users to plan their journeys and access up-to-date information. Furthermore, collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and community organizations is essential to ensure that transit initiatives are well-coordinated and responsive to local needs.
To create a truly equitable and sustainable transit system, funding mechanisms must be re-evaluated. Rural transit often struggles to compete for funding with larger urban projects, leading to chronic underinvestment. Governments need to prioritize rural transit in their infrastructure plans and allocate resources accordingly. This could involve establishing dedicated funding streams, offering tax incentives for private companies to invest in rural transit, and exploring innovative financing models such as public-private partnerships. Furthermore, community engagement is paramount. Rural residents must be involved in the planning and decision-making processes to ensure that transit solutions are tailored to their specific needs and preferences. This can be achieved through public forums, surveys, and community workshops. By empowering local communities to shape their transit systems, we can create solutions that are not only effective but also sustainable in the long term.
In conclusion, "Rural-Urban Transit for All" is an essential goal for building inclusive and thriving communities. Bridging the transit gap requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the unique challenges of rural areas, leverages technology, fosters collaboration, and prioritizes community engagement. By investing in flexible transit options, re-evaluating funding mechanisms, and empowering local communities, we can create a transportation system that connects all residents to opportunities, services, and each other, regardless of their location.
The Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA), https://www.gpofpa.org, is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPPA candidates promote public policy based on the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom, and social justice/equal opportunity. For further information about GPPA, please email [email protected]. Please follow GPPA on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/gpofpa/; Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/pagreenparty/; and X, https://x.com/GreenPartyofPA
For more information:
“We Must Build Rural/Urban Unity to Win Transit for All,” Transit for All PA, November 6, 2025, https://www.transitforallpa.org/we-must-build-rural-urban-unity-to-win-transit-for-all/
“Ecological Sustainability, Mass Transit,” Green Party of the U.S. Platform, https://www.gp.org/ecological_sustainability#mass_transit
END ITEM
Two Green Party Candidates Reflect on 2025 Election Campaign
Green Party of Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, November 17, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader
267-977-0570 and [email protected]
Two Green Party Candidates Reflect on 2025 Election Campaign
The Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA) had nominated three candidates for local office during 2025. Michael Bagdes-Canning was nominated for re-election as Mayor of Cherry Valley in Butler County. Tony Dastra was nominated for two offices, Mayor and City Councilor of Lancaster City in Lancaster County. Alex Noyle was nominated for Auditor of East Norriton Township in Montgomery County.
To help them focus their answers, GREEN STAR asked our candidates four questions. Two of those candidates were kind enough to share their thoughts about the election.
GREEN STAR: Based on your campaign this year, what advice would you offer to Greens who plan to run for office in 2026 or 2027?
Michael Bagdes-Canning:
“My advice based on my campaign for Mayor in Cherry Valley would not be a one size fits all sort of thing. I think the determining factor in the success of my campaign was familiarity -- my neighbors know who I am, they know what I stand for, they know my character. That is based on living in this community for 43 years, serving on Borough Council / Mayor since 1989.
“I do think that some of that is generalizable. If you are going to mount a successful campaign, voters have to know who you are, what you stand for. They need to feel comfortable with you. Running as a Green, that is particularly true. Face it, we have been painted as spoilers, far-left tree huggers, purists. We as Greens need to counter that by showing up and genuinely engaging with our neighbors. Getting them familiar with Green values.”
Alex Noyle:
“This was our first time in a true three-way race against the duopoly, and we finished with 340 votes (6.68%). This is about 1/3 of our 1,092 votes in the 2023 two-way race. I’m confident a big chunk of that gap is Republicans who just voted Green as an anti-Democrat protest vote last time, and stuck to their own candidate this year. We did retain a small number of Republican votes, but we also discovered that our true base is primarily composed of three groups: independents, third party voters, and disillusioned Democrats. So, 340 votes is a much clearer count of people who actually share our vision -- not ‘lesser evil’ voters. That’s the base we’re going to be building on in the future.
“We strongly urge Greens running in 2026 or 2027 to operate on a primary day timetable even though our deadlines are later. You want to be ahead of any surprises, not scrambling at the end. A dependable campaign manager and treasurer are crucial to your success as a candidate, and so is the growth of your local Green Party chapter.”
GREEN STAR: Voters in your district began voting by mail-in ballot on October 1. How do you think mail-in voting affected your campaign?
Michael Bagdes-Canning:
“About 20% of the voters in Cherry Valley voted by mail-in ballot, but the affect was negligible on the result. My campaigning was done via home visits. My wife Karen and I visited every home in Cherry Valley to distribute a voters guide -- telling people how to vote for write-in candidates -- NOT ME. I DID make sure I distributed those BEFORE the mail-in ballots were sent out. Karen, who is an inspector, told me that almost every voter showed up with that piece of paper.”
Alex Noyle:
“As in 2023 we didn’t do well with mail-in voters, which was expected because we did nothing to reach them. Next time we’re sending mailers to addresses we can’t realistically canvass, especially apartments and multi-family housing.”
GREEN STAR: What effect did your volunteers at the polls have on the election outcome?
Michael Bagdes-Canning:
“The only volunteer I had at the polls was me, and I didn't spend a whole lot of time at the polls -- less than an hour. All of my campaigning was done prior to the election. Due to our screwed up election laws, in tiny communities like Cherry Valley, it is far easier for me, a Green, to get on the ballot than it is for Democrats (it is impossible for them) or Republicans (near impossible). It was important to me to elect a Borough Council (four of the five seats were up), Auditors (3), Tax Collector (1), and Judge/Inspectors (3). Without those roles being filled, the borough cannot function. I think my neighbors appreciated the time and effort I put into making that happen.”
Alex Noyle: “The scientific approach we took to this race gave us a clearer sense of what actually works. Volunteers at the polls were by far our most effective tactic, yard signs came second, and canvassing slipped to third. Very different from 2023 in the 1-on-1 with a Democrat, where canvassing was our #1 tactic.”
GREEN STAR: Do you plan to run again for office as a Green Party candidate?
Michael Bagdes-Canning:
“I am 72. I am approaching my "sell by" date. I have already run for County Commissioner, State Representative (twice), and Lieutenant Governor of PA. I learned a lot during those campaigns.
"However, I have things that I am passionate about, things that I want to leave behind:
- I want the generations that come after mine to have a stable environment, clean air, water, and soil.
- I want to ensure that we have a government that serves the many, not the rich.
- I want to work to repair the damage done through manipulation -- pitting neighbor against neighbor, city dwellers against rural denizens, housed against un-housed, immigrants against citizens.
“So what that means is, I want to spend the rest of my time feeding those passions, continue the organizing work that I do in those realms through Pennsylvania Action on Climate, March on Harrisburg, and the PA Poor People's Campaign.
“Sure, if four years from now I still have the energy, I will run for Mayor of Cherry Valley again. However, I am actively trying to plant the seeds among my neighbors to make me obsolete. We have an amazing group of people in the Green Party of Pennsylvania who are better faces for a forward-looking Green Party than this grizzled geezer. I'd be happy to be a guide on the side.”
Alex Noyle:
“I plan to run with the Montco Greens again in 2027 and will be seeking endorsements from other minor parties as well. I ran out of time to approach others this year. The 2025 election season is over, but our work to turn East Norriton Green is just getting started. We are planting the seeds. Thank you, everyone, for your support, this election may be over but this campaign is certainly not. Like Sisyphus, we will keep on pushing.”
The Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA), https://www.gpofpa.org, is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPPA candidates promote public policy based on the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom, and social justice/equal opportunity. For further information about GPPA, please email [email protected]. Please follow GPPA on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/gpofpa/; Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/pagreenparty/; and X, https://x.com/GreenPartyofPA
END OF ITEM
Green Party Members Evaluate No Kings Rally
Green Party of Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, October 25, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader
267-977-0570 and [email protected]
Green Party Members Evaluate No Kings Rally
The organizers from the No Kings Alliance said, “In one of the largest single-day nationwide demonstrations in U.S. history, nearly seven million Americans gathered [on October 18], two million more than June. In more than 2,700 cities and town, the No Kings Day of Peaceful Action, [they stood] together in nonviolent defiance of authoritarianism, affirming that this nation belongs to its people, not to kings.”
More than 1,500 people demonstrated at the No Kings rally in Altoona, PA. An unnamed Green Party member said, “The No Kings rally in Altoona was a bit later in the day and a shorter demonstration. A good mix of people came out. The speakers encouraged people to get involved in community politics. Could have had more action calls. Roads were blocked for the walk. Bigger turnout than the Centre County rally. Saw more young people involved than last time as well. Only counter protesters I saw were a Trump couple, who were easy to ignore and the hacky Blair County news guy.”
Green Party candidate for re-election as Cherry Valley Mayor said, “I went to the Akron, Ohio, No Kings Rally. Several thoughts jump out at me. The first was the sheer energy of a locally organized event. There were maybe over 1,000 raucous ralliers, and they were loud and self-organized into groups on each of the corners in front of the Federal Building which was the centerpiece of the whole event. Even more impressive was the number of cars that went by expressing solidarity with the No Kings Rally. Car horns were almost continuous for the entire time I was there, and the signs that poked out of windows and sunroofs were almost as plentiful as the ones at the rally. Signs were clever and reflected a range of issues -- though most were tepid, tripe, and Trump-centric.
Organizers said that 3,000 people attended the No Kings rally in State College. An unnamed Green Party member from Centre County said, “Got there a half hour early. Wasn't too crowded at first but saw people I could identify as participating in going to the campus. I handed out flowers with one of our piller headlines and websites for more info to about 55 people. I think they were welcome. Everyone was very friendly, a mix of older and some younger folks. Could not really hear any of the speakers, and could not tell if any actionable calls were stated. Talked to a few Democrats who would be interested in a coalition against Data AI. The crowd got much larger in the middle of the event. I didn't notice any hecklers or counter protestors. Centre County Green Party Chair Neil Haagen got compliments on his constitution sign and I on my Tree of Life Stronger Than Hate sweatshirt. It was a nice day out, and with how convenient everything was set up, I think it was easily accessible to participate in. It seems a lot of people were enjoying their time out. I'm hoping this means they will get more active.”
At least 4,000 people took to the streets along with Lancaster Green Party members who attended the No Kings rally there. Tony Dastra, the Green Party candidate for Mayor of Lancaster City, said, “It would have been nice to be asked to table by the organizers like other political orgs and the democrat party was, but aside from that it was great to see so many people who recognize this is not how governments should operate. Just being there with my sign and talking with people, I think many understand the importance of working across political affiliations to have a government of representatives who care about civil rights and not prioritizing one party as a prescription.”
GPPA Co-chair Timothy Runkle demonstrated in Lancaster City. Runkle said, “It was good gathering with folks who agree that the U.S. is a threat to the survival of the world. Unfortunately, the improvement of our situation won't occur on the weekend. Let's see No Kings during the weekday. Let's see a general strike!” Another Lancaster Green Party member said, “I liked the energy of the people around me marching and how people greeted and encouraged the marchers from their front porches.
GPPA Steering Committee member Barbara Laxon said, “I was very happy to realize that the organizers of the No Kings rally in both Bradford (McKean County), PA, and Olean, NY, decided to collaborate in order to ensure that people would be able to attend both rallies. Bradford is just 25 miles from Olean. Both rallies included speakers, creative signage, and music. The unofficial counts of attendees in Bradford were approximately 210, and for Olean (a much bigger town) approximately 600.This was an excellent turnout in my rural Republican-dominated district. The best part was my conversation with a group of young people in Bradford who asked me about my Green Party button. They were happy to come back to my place to receive handouts about what the Green Party stands for and information about local meetings.
Philadelphia police estimated there were more than 15,000 people. The rally stretched from Independence Hall to the National Constitution Center. Speakers invoked the historical sites surrounding the stage in their remarks, likening the Trump administration’s actions to those of King George III ahead of the American Revolution. Chris Robinson, an organizer for the Green Party of Philadelphia (GPOP), said, “We had members of the GPOP Migration is a Human Right Working Group handing out our newsletter. It was energizing to see that so many people are disaffected with the duopoly.”
Jon Lessner, another GPOP organizer, said, “The No Kings it's really more of a rally and march than a protest due to the fact it has no goal or action request to people or the gov't. It's a demonstration of the people to show voices of discontent. It's a way to get people outside and feel good about being loud, however, it does not allow for change or civil disruption of the machine. Coordinating with the state and obeying their rules on how to display discontent defies the purpose of a protest. It can be useful for getting people more involved and connected to other activities, like voting Green Party for the first time. Using a demonstration like No Kings for those purposes is what I believe makes it important.”
Not All Were Favorable
A group of Green Party of Allegheny County (GPOAC) members organized by Chair Jay Ting Walker attended the No Kings protests. One common criticism of these actions is that they did not have clear demands. Furthermore, the atmospheres were those of a rally or a festival. These events can be good for bringing attention about meaningful issues to people who otherwise would be at brunch. But what can people do to get involved and take meaningful actions to make a difference?
Bagdes-Canning said, “The things that were disappointing, though, were glaring. The most dangerous was a lack of peacekeeping/de-escalation/marshaling. Another failing was missing the opportunity to engage ralliers in next steps. There were no sign-up sheets, no handouts to give to passersby, and no calls to action, not even an invitation to come to the next big thing -- whatever that is. Finally, the focus was entirely on Trump and not what got us to Trump. The messaging was very Democrat focused. There were some signs calling out the corporations and billionaires, but no demands for the Democrats to foreswear corporate cash.”
Maria UmKashif, a Green Party member in Lackawanna County, said, “I considered attending the No Kings event, but then I decided not to after I was told not to bring any Palestinian flags or keffiyeh to Scranton. To further solidify my decision, there was a member of our local Palestine Advocacy/Protest Group who was told they could not speak in Wilkes-Barre for No Kings because they wanted to mention Gaza in their speech. After serious reflection on my conflicted emotions about this No Kings event -- because I do support immigrants, refugees, women and children and I do not want to see fascism and authoritarianism to spread across the USA -- but I also wonder “what about Gaza?”
Aidan Williamson, a member of Green Party of Philadelphia, agreed, saying “I decided to not attend the protest because the organizers of No Kings refused to allow a pro-Palestine speaker. There was a pro-Palestine contingent that day, though who were very disciplined and everything. But they still got trouble for being there. Families For A Ceasefire was in attendance, and one of the organizers of No Kings harassed them so badly that a legal observer from Up Against The Law had to be called in. Personally I find all of this really disturbing and reason enough for me individually to have nothing to do with No Kings moving forward.”
The Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA), https://www.gpofpa.org, is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPPA candidates promote public policy based on the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom, and social justice/equal opportunity. For further information about GPPA, please email [email protected]. Please follow GPPA on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/gpofpa/; Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/pagreenparty/; and X, https://x.com/GreenPartyofPA
For more information:
“Nearly 7 Million People Attend Overwhelmingly Peaceful No Kings Day of Action, No Kings Alliance, news release dated October 18, 2025,
“PA Greens Attend No Kings Day of Defiance,” GREEN STAR lead story, Green Party of Pennsylvania, dated July 2025,
https://www.gpofpa.org/july_greenstar_2025
End Item
PA Green Party Demands U.S. Cease Spreading Flames of War in Mideast
Green Party of Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, July 23, 2025
CONTACT:
Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader
267-977-0570 and [email protected]
PA Green Party Demands U.S. Cease Spreading Flames of War in Mideast
At the request of Barbara Laxon (McKean County), the Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA) Steering Committee on July 12 endorsed a statement by the Green Party of the United States (GPUS) on the U.S. bombing of Iran. Laxon, who is an elected Pennsylvania delegate to the Green Party Peace Action Committee (GPAX) said, “The GPPA is deeply concerned about the continued and advancing involvement of the U.S. in actions in the Middle East and the dire consequences as noted in the statement below."
The Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA), https://www.gpofpa.org, is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPPA candidates promote public policy based on the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom, and social justice/equal opportunity. For further information about GPPA, please email [email protected]. Please follow GPPA on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/gpofpa/; Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/pagreenparty/; and X, https://x.com/GreenPartyofPA
The GPUS statement says:
The Green Party of the United States strongly condemns President Trump’s unauthorized bombing attack on Iran and the deceptive negotiations that preceded it. "A ceasefire between Iran and Israel was announced yesterday by the US. It will last 12 hours and then the war will be over. But who knows whether the end of fighting will hold? Who knows what the next few weeks will bring?"
Trump’s many boasts of being a peacemaker are now discredited as his actions demonstrate that he is a reckless militarist seeking U.S. dominance over the Mideast. The consequences of this attack may include disruption of global oil supplies, further destruction in Israel, and possible escalation if Russia or China acts to defend Iran.
Not content with providing a steady stream of weapons and logistical support to Israel to sustain the Gaza genocide, the U.S. has now committed an act of war by bombing Iran’s nuclear technology sites. Without any Congressional authorization, our nation is plunging into an ill-considered Mideast military adventure in support of an Israeli state that knows no limits to its territorial ambitions and openly defies international law.
“The U.S. must stop spreading the flames of war in the Mideast and compel Israel to halt its attacks on Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, and Iran. Israel will never be a safe country if it is committed to laying waste to its neighbors. An immediate cease fire should be followed by negotiations to achieve a permanent settlement of the Israeli/Palestinian dispute under United Nations auspices” said Madelyn Hoffman, co-chair of the Green Party’s Peace Action Committee.
“The Green Party is the party of peace. Unlike the two dominant U.S. political parties, we oppose a militaristic foreign policy based on lies and manufactured threats. The Party calls for nationwide demonstrations and political actions protesting the latest U.S. imperial war. We must stop the U.S. war machine before it consumes us all,” added Hoffman.
For more information:
“Green Party Condemns the Bombing of Iran,” Green Party of the United States news release, June 24, 2025,
https://www.gp.org/green_party_condemns_the_bombing_of_iran
Peace Action Committee, Green Party of the United States (GPAX),
Email, [email protected]
Website https://gpax.gpus.org/
END ITEM
Green Party Has "Hands On" World Peace
Green Party of Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sunday, April 27, 2025
CONTACT:
Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader
267-977-0570 and [email protected]
Green Party Has "Hands On" World Peace
Following the massive "Hands Off" demonstration on April 5, the Green Party asked its leaders to describe what the Green Party had its "Hands On."
By Erin King (Centre County)
Steering Committee, Green Party of Pennsylvania
Although I was a lifelong Democrat until 2024, I'd had my doubts about some Democrats in office. For the most part, I held my faith that many of them were determined to uplift the working class and remain on the right side of history.
The rudest awakening overtook my entire being when I witnessed my government's brutally amoral response to the apartheid State of Israel's full-scale attack on the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank. On October 7, 2023, Hamas waged an aggressive onslaught against Israel, including seizing 251 Israeli persons as hostages; a direct response to decades of extreme oppression and violence imposed against Palestine and its indigenous peoples.
Soon I would learn that not only had Israel helped for some time to fund Hamas but later admitted to murdering its own people on October 7. I would also come to know several other facts, which revealed to me the United States' long, dark history with the Israeli government. The U.S. has wholeheartedly participated in ensuring that the apartheid, illegal occupation, and endless human rights violations in Palestine, continues -- with our tax dollars, no less.
Now, we are well into 2025. We still see no end to the genocide that persists at the hands of Israel and the U.S. against the people of Palestine. Israel has become so emboldened by our corrupt White House and Congress, it has also launched genocidal attacks against Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.
I knew even prior to 2024 that I would never again vote for Joe Biden. I also did not feel any better about the prospect of voting for Kamala Harris. Eventually, I realized that I had heard numerous derogatory things about the Green Party --namely about Dr. Jill Stein -- over the years without doing any real fact-checking about the party. Once I decided to shut out all the ignorant screeching from the neoliberals and started to research the Green Party on my own, I discovered that this is where I need to be.
One stance on which the Green Party is clearly "Hands-On" is that of being for World Peace, which resonates with me like never before. The Green Party truly cares about the American people and wants to create a country that works the way it's supposed to for all Americans and not just the billionaire class .The Green Party is against the money-torching, soul-crushing war machine that has taken over our economy for an eternity. Instead of rebuilding our infrastructures, investing in more modern, reliable public transportation across the country on a grander scale (similar to what exists in Europe), increasing funding for education, hospitals, healthcare, affordable housing, and mental healthcare, the vast majority of our taxes fund the U.S. military and endless, pointless wars and genocide.
This is the bottomless pit that our hard-earned tax dollars are thrown into year after year, with nothing to show for it other than millions of lives destroyed both here and abroad and everyday life becoming more and more difficult for many Americans. Those at the top of the food chain, many of whom hold state and federal offices, enjoy the lucrative financial benefits of starting a war every 15 to 20 years at our expense.
There is something very sobering about finally waking up to what a mess your country and its people have become, largely due to the two ruling parties and their continuously obscene abuse of the American war machine. I cannot begin to explain how, even through all the mess, I still refuse to give up on doing whatever I can to arouse people from apathy and convince them that to see a different, better result, they'll need to seek a better party and cut all ties with the ones that will never stop hurting us.
I believe in the Green Party and in its strong, overall message of "Hands On" inclusion, fairness and justice for all.
- The Green Party has "Hands On" world peace.
- The Green Party has "Hands On" an end to settler colonialism and the international crime of apartheid.
- The Green Party has "Hands On" a 50 percent cut in the Pentagon budget.
- The Green Party has "Hands On" closing more than 700 Pentagon bases abroad.
- The Green Party has "Hands On" ending U.S. arms sales to other nations.
- The Green Party has "Hands On" ťthe U.S. ratification of the Treaty Prohibiting Nuclear Weapons.
The Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA), https://www.gpofpa.org, is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPPA candidates promote public policy based on the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom, and social justice/equal opportunity. For further information about GPPA, please email [email protected]. Please follow GPPA on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/gpofpa/; Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/pagreenparty/; and X, https://x.com/GreenPartyofPA
For more information:
Platform Green Party of the U.S.; D. Foreign Policy; 1. Peace and Disarmament; https://www.gp.org/democracy#demForeignPolicy
END ITEM
Green Party and International Women’s Day 2025
Green Party of Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, February 15, 2025
CONTACT:
Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader
267-977-0570 and [email protected]
Green Party and International Women’s Day 2025
By Erin King, Green Party of Pennsylvania Steering Committee
“Feminism and Gender Equity” is one of the Green Party’s Ten Key Values. It specifically recognizes how male-dominated political and economic systems, which have been passed down through centuries, significantly lack cultural, spiritual, and moral awareness, retaining a level of rigidity that has resulted in the marginalization of certain groups and stifled any forward-thinking progress, even well into the 21st century. Sadly, yet predictably, the consequences of such antiquated systems, which tend to consistently implement oppressive laws and policies to prevent distinct groups from attaining positions of power, as well as complete autonomy over their own bodies, intentionally deprives many women and LGBTQA+ people around the world of the most basic and vital liberties and safeguards.
This year, International Women’s Day (IWD) will be celebrated on March 8. The date holds a special significance linked to the women’s movement during the Russian revolution of 1917 -- according to the United Nations’ website -- although the recognition and celebration of International Women’s Day dates back as far as 1909.The IWD theme for 2025, as declared by the United Nations, is “Accelerate Action.”
While this theme’s message focuses primarily on taking expeditious steps towards achieving gender equality, it truly is a concept that can readily be applied to nearly every aspect of our lives, as women and girls across the globe reach out to one another in the name of solidarity and empowerment during a time when their struggles accumulate against an ever-growing movement of oppression by the patriarchy.
New year, old challenges.
Worth noting is that each new generation of women must continue to fight for the same rights and protections their mothers, grandmothers, and great grandmothers worked so fiercely to secure. In America, women’s rights, including those of LGBTQA+ persons, are at the forefront of every election cycle, and 2024 was certainly no different. Gender equality, trans rights, abortion rights, contraception rights, and even the right to affordable and easily accessible menstrual products were up for debate and decision. All too often, the ongoing battles over these fundamental freedoms can feel as though they have been reduced to little more than a mockery by the "powers that be."
One of the most tragic things we’ve seen over the past several years is the treatment of women and girls by the Taliban in Afghanistan, who have, yet again, been robbed of their human right to an education or to walk freely without a male escort. In Ireland, in 2018, women finally won their legal right to abortion care, only to still be hit with tough restrictions that continue to force some women to travel outside the country to safely terminate their unwanted pregnancies. On a more positive note, in 2024, Mexico elected its first female president, who also stems from a Jewish background and has appeared as a force to be reckoned with to anyone looking to undermine her progressive ideals. Lastly, we wholeheartedly recognize the immeasurably monstrous and inhumane suffering that has been illegally and immorally inflicted upon the women and children of Palestine, Sudan, and the Congo.
The enduring strength and resilience of women, internationally, during the most brutal and tumultuous times in history, to date, is both inspirational and shocking to behold. The fight continues, but we need to achieve an extraordinary level of solidarity to win the war.
The Green Party and its political candidates, for whom we campaign and confidently show our support, stand firmly against any and all forms of discrimination and inequality targeting women and LGBTQA+ persons. The Green Party is also committed to grassroots initiatives, which are necessary for growing a solid base of everyday citizens who believe in true democracy and equality without the interference of corporate entities.
Walk proudly. Embrace Green. Remember to stay strong and accelerate action on this International Women’s Day and beyond.
Pennsylvania voters who would like to run for local or county office as a Green Party candidate should contact [email protected]. The Green Party of PA, https://www.gpofpa.org, is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPPA candidates promote public policy based on the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom, and social justice/equal opportunity. For further information about GPPA, please email [email protected]. Please follow GPPA on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/gpofpa/; Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/pagreenparty/; and Twitter, https://twitter.com/GreenPartyofPA.
For more information, please see:
“Have a Green International Women’s Day 2024” by Marci Henzi, GREEN STAR, March 2024, https://www.gpofpa.org/march_2024_greenstar
“PA Greens Celebrate International Women’s Day 2023” by Tina Olson, GREEN STAR, March 2023, https://www.gpofpa.org/greenstar_march_2023
“Choose to Challenge, International Women’s Day 2021” by Beth Scroggin, GREEN STAR, March 2021, https://www.gpofpa.org/march_2021_green_star
“ERA on the Eve of International Women’s Day 2020” by Gayle Morrow, GREEN STAR, https://www.gpofpa.org/march_2020_green_star
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8/25 Bensalem, PA - Dr. Jill Stein & Dr. Butch Ware Meet & Greet Fundraiser
Exciting news!!
Our newly elected presidential and veep candidates, Jill Stein and Butch Ware, will be in Bensalem THIS SUNDAY!
Join us for a dynamic and engaging meet and greet with Green Party candidates Dr. Jill Stein and Dr. Butch Ware. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from these influential leaders about their vision for people, planet and peace. This is also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in our local community. Light fare will be provided.
August 25, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Fishers Banquet Hall
1858 Street Rd,
Bensalem, PA 19020.
COME AND BRING FRIENDS!!!
Meet our candidates, ask questions, enjoy some nibbles, and hear more about how to support their campaigns, for justice, peace, and eco-socialism!
See https://www.jillstein2024.com/mg_8-25 for further specs.
Green Party of Philadelphia
https://www.gpop.org/
PA Greens Oppose Tree-cutting in Philadelphia Park
Green Party of Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, May 10, 2024
CONTACT:
Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader
215-843-4256 and [email protected]
PA Greens Oppose Tree-cutting in Philadelphia Park
On May 5, the Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA) Steering Committee endorsed a public letter to Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker requesting that she end the slaughter of heritage trees in Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) Park. As chainsaw crews level acres of trees in the Park, regional and state organizations, along with environmental experts, convened at the site and delivered a message urging Mayor Cherelle Parker to intervene before the Fairmount Park Conservancy clear-cuts and fills a natural floodplain.
GPPA Steering Committee Member Alex Casper said, “The City of Philadelphia is tearing down 441 trees at FDR Park. Many of them are heritage trees, sacred to the Lenni Lenape people. The city wants to make room for 16 artificial-turf soccer fields to host the FIFA World Cup.” Casper continued, “I myself go bird watching at FDR Park ever since I used to live in Point Breeze. The meadows and habitats within them are home to red-winged black birds, gray catbirds, red cardinals, tree swallows, etc. Destroying these habitats takes away a vital home for wildlife. I have urged our state and local Green Parties to sign on to the demand that the Mayor protect these sacred trees and our cities best habitats.”
Green Party of Philadelphia (GPOP) Co-chair Belinda Davis said, “All aside from the public's recreational enjoyment, it is hard to see how this is consistent with the city's climate goals, of which the Mayor has made so much.”
The organizations which have requested the intervention of Mayor Parker include: Clean Air Council, Clean Water Action, EnviroPhilly, Green Party of Philadelphia, Green Party of Pennsylvania, LandHealth Institute, Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania, Monarch Defenders, Save The Meadows, SEAMAAC Inc., Sunrise Movement Philadelphia, PennEnvironment, Philly DSA, Philly Thrive, and Physicians for Social Responsibility Pennsylvania.
“I am glad that the Green Party has joined the coalition of environmental organizations (and a petition from more than 3,000 citizens),” said GPPA Communication Team Co-leader Chris Robinson. “Ecological Wisdom is one of the four Green Party Pillars, and the Green Party Platform calls for a Green New Deal, which includes, ‘creating a federal program . . . for carbon sequestration to fund local public initiatives [to] plant trees, reforest and afforest public lands.’ Unfortunately, the interests of the two corporate parties lie elsewhere.”
The Green Party of PA, https://www.gpofpa.org, is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPPA candidates promote public policy based on the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom, and social justice/equal opportunity. For further information about GPPA, please email [email protected]. Please follow GPPA on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/gpofpa/; Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/pagreenparty/; and Twitter, https://twitter.com/GreenPartyofPA.
For more information:
Joint News Release about FDR Park, May 6, 2024,
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_9hH7ASvTgGAKoNQamYvgJmwXZWtHvFn56mkqnkO3dI/edit
Our Ten Key Values, Green Party of the U.S.,
https://www.gp.org/ten_key_values
Platform of the Green Party of the U.S., III. Ecological Sustainability, A. Climate Change, Economic Bill of Rights, GREEN SOLUTIONS, 7. Carbon Sequestration Using Ecological Restoration, https://www.gp.org/ecological_sustainability#carbon
END ITEM
Greens holding elected office, US as November 2021 elections
Quincy McCourt, City Council, Susanville (Lassen County) term through March 2024
David Clark, Governing Board Member, Cardiff School District, Cardiff-By-The-Sea (San Diego County) term though Nov 2022
Jacob Coan, Governing Board Member, South Bay Union School District, Eureka (Humboldt County) term through Nov 2022
Carolyn Dixon, Governing Board Member, Wright Elementary School District, Santa Rosa (Sonoma County) term through Nov 2022
Mark Dyken, Governing Board Member, Vallecito Union School District (Calaveras County) term through Nov 2022
Dana Silvernale, Governing Boardmember, North Humboldt Union High School (Humboldt County) term through Nov 2022
John Abraham Powell, Board of Directors, Montecito Fire District, Montecito (Santa Barbara County) term through Nov 2024
Jane Jarlsberg, Joshua Basin Water District (San Bernardino County) term through Nov 2024
Randy Marx, Board of Directors, Fair Oaks Water District, Division 4 (Sacramento County) term through Nov 2024
Robert “Bob” Patrick Wichert, Director, Sacramento Suburban Water District; Division 3 (Sacramento County) term through Nov 2022
Sharron Parra, Hyampom Community Service District (Trinity County) term through Nov 2024
Kyle Cadman, West Area At-Large Representative, Olympic Park Neighborhood Council, Los Angeles (Los Angeles County) term through Spring 2023
Hugh Moore, Area 2 Resident Representative – Seat 2 (Group B), United Neighborhoods of the Historic Arlington Heights, West Adams and Jefferson Park Community Neighborhood Council, Los Angeles (Los Angeles County) term through Spring 2023
Mireira Alejandra Moran , Renter Representative Pacoima Neighborhood Council Los Angeles (Los Angeles County) term through Spring 2023
Carl Petersen, Resident Boardmember, Northridge East Neighborhood Council, Los Angeles (Los Angeles County) term through Spring 2023
Alexander Robinson, Resident Boardmember, Westlake South Neighborhood Council, Los Angeles (Los Angeles County) term through Spring 2023
Matt Keefauver, City Council, Cortez (Montezuma County) term through April 2022 (appointed June 2021)
Hugh Birdsall, Zoning Board of Appeals, Clinton (Middlesex County) term through Nov 2025
Emery Ng, Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate, Windham (Windham County) term through Nov 2025
Michael Westerfield, Board of Assessment Appeals, Windham (Windham County) term through Nov 2023
Charlie Krich, At-large, Willimantic Taxing District Board of Directors, Windham (Windham County) term through Nov 2025
Cassandra Martineau, At-large, Willimantic Taxing District Board of Directors, Windham (Windham County) term through Nov 2025
Rob Derry, Police Commission, Clinton (Middlesex County) term through Nov 2023
Sandy Lezon, Library Board of Trustees, Warrenville Public Library District, Warrenville, term through April 2025
Steve De La Rosa, Library Board of Trustees, Villa Park (Dupage County) term through April 2025
Scott Harriman, City Council, District 2, Lewiston (Oxford County) term through Nov 2024
Ross Lawrence, City Council, Eastport (Washington County) term through November 2023
Jeff Manter, Town Council, Veazie (Penobscot County) term through July 2023
Scott Avery, Selectboard Member, Casco (Cumberland County), term through June 2024
Jennifer Billings, Selectboard Member, West Paris (Oxford County) term through June 2024
Ronald Deegan, Selectboard Member, Bryant Pond (Woodstock) (Oxford County) term ends March 2022
Glenn Dochtermann, Selectboard Member, Alfred (York County) term through June 2022
Jason Dolloff, Selectboard Member, Peru (Oxford County) term through July 2023
Daniel Frye, Select Board Member, Carmel (Penobscot County) term through March 2023
Gerald Hoag, Select Board Member, Beaver Cove (Penobscot County) term through May 2023 (appointed May 2021)
Wayne ‘Chip’ Johnson, Select Board Member, Solon (Somerset County) term through March 2024
Daniel Monahan, Select Board Member, Trenton (Hancock County) term ends May 2023
Jeremy Petty, Selectboard Member, Sabattus (Androscoggin County) term through November 2023
Rebecca Hennessy, Boardmember School Committee, Northfield (Washington County) term through June 2022
Ann Ingersoll, School Boardmember, Maine School Administrative District #134 (Somerset County) term through March 2024
Danny Jackson, School Boardmember, RSU District 49 School Board (Lincoln County) term through June 2022
Robert Lindblom, School Boardmember, Solon representative, Maine School Administrative District 74 (MSAD) (Somerset County) term through May 2024
Patrick Milligan, School Boardmember, Spruce Mountain School District, Livermore Falls representative (Androscoggin County) term through June 2023
Jessica Smith, School Boardmember, RSU District 16 School Board (Androscoggin County) term through Nov 2022 (appointed August 2021)
Megan Parks, School Committee, Lewiston Public Schools (Androscoggin County) term through Nov 2023
Patricia Patnaude, School Boardmembrer, Maine School Administrative District 72 (MSAD), Stow (Oxford County) term through June 2023
Sam Pfeiffle, School Boardmember, Maine School Administrative District (MSAD 15), Gray/New Gloucester (Cumberland County) term through June 2025
Kevin Souza, Embden representative, Regional School Unit (RSU) #74 (Somerset County) term through March 2022
Nicole Springer, Passadumkeag representative, Maine School Administrative District (MSAD) #31 (Penobscot County) term ends June 2023
Diane Whalen, Regional School Unit 24 #4 Director, Sabattus (Androscoggin County) term through Nov 2024
Ryan Whitehouse, School Boardmember, East Millinocket Schools, East Millinocket (Penobscot County) term through November 2024
Deron Whittemore, School Boardmember, Solon representative, Maine School Administrative District 74 (MSAD) (Somerset County) term through March 2022
Jacqueline Wolinski, School Boardmember, RSU District 54, Skowhegan representative (Somerset County) term through June 2023 (appointed August 2021)
Christopher Henderson, Board of Directors, Hampden Water Board, Hampden (Penobscot County) term through November 2023
Jessica Tremblay, Board of Directors, Alfred Water Board, Alfred (York County) terms through June 2024
Adam Morse, Board of Directors, Freeport Sewer Board, Freeport (Cumberland County) term through November 2024
Sharon Moss, Town Meeting Representative, Shrewsbury (Worcester County) term through May 2023
Edward Tar Larner, Housing Board, Concord (Middlesex County) term through March 2024
Matthew Moncreaff, Board of Selectman, Princeton (Worcester County) term through May 2022
Michael Lavery, Board of Selectman, Becket (Berkshire County) term through June 2023 (joined Green Party in February 2021 after elected in June 2020)
Cliff Yankovich, City Council, Lowell (Kent County) term though Nov 2023
Shauleen Higgin, City Council, Lakeside (Coos County) term through November 2022 (joined Green Party in 2020 after elected in 2018)
Abe Currin, Board of Directors, Zone 6, Blue Mountain Community College (Umatilla County) term ends May 2025
Michael Sonnleitner, Board of Directors, Zone 3, Portland Community College, Portland (Multnomah County) term through May 2023
Michael Clary, Coos Soil and Water Conservation District, Zone 4 (Coos County) term though November 2024
Alex Polikoff, Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District (Benton County) term through May 2024
Brian Powers, Position 5, Hubbard Rural Fire Protection District, Hubbard (Marion County) term ends May 2025
Chloe Flora, Pine Eagle Health District , Position 1 (Baker County) term through May 2025
Matt Donahue, Circuit Court Judge (Benton County) term though May 2026
Laura Dininni, Township Supervisor, Ferguson Township (Centre County) term through Nov 2023 (joined Green Party in August 2021 after elected WHEN)
Matthew Reitenauer, School Board, Brandywine Heights, Topton (Berks County) term through Nov 2025
Jay Sweeney, Auditor, Falls Township (Wyoming County) term through Nov 2025
Abigail Hunter, Judge of Elections Ward 7, Precinct 8, Pittsburgh (Allegheny County) term through Nov 2025
Andrew Moses Yanez Oliva, Judge of Elections, Ward 15, District 6, Reading (Berks County) term through Nov 2025
William Pilkonis, Judge of Elections, W-10 P-01, Scranton (Lackawanna County) term through Nov 2021
Jay Ting Walker, Inspector of Elections, Ward 7, District 6, Pittsburgh (Allegheny County) term through Nov 2023
Brian Benford, Common Council, District 6 (Dane County) term through April 2023
Barbara Dahlgren, District 11, Wisconsin Conservation Congress delegate (Milwaukee County) term through April 2023