Green Party of Pennsylvania

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, February 13, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT 

Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader

267-977-0570 and [email protected] 

Green Party Celebrates International Women’s Day 2026

By Erin King

International Women’s Day (IWD) will be celebrated by Green Party members on Sunday, March 8, this year. The IWD theme for 2026 will be “Give to Gain.” The Green Party National Women’s Caucus says it “will organize and act to advance Women's rights and concerns with the ultimate goals of maximizing . . . a voter, activist, leadership, candidate and officeholder base of Women, that is reflective of the great diversity of this nation.”

Another year, another chance to do better, despite the ongoing human catastrophes occurring here and overseas—war and genocide, mass starvation, state-sanctioned rape and pedophilia, police beating and jailing protesters for lawfully protesting, and billionaires allowed the impunity to wreck whatever tiny scraps of democracy the West hasremaining, at whim.

Over the past year alone in America, we’ve seen no end to greedflation, as evidenced by skyrocketing homelessness, grocery prices continuously climbing, and our own government caring less and less about the wellbeing and basic human rights of its own citizens.

Many people, families included, live in their vehicles, working multiple jobs to survive, while others are forced to decide between paying for life-sustaining medications or food. On a grand scale, Americans now feel little to no sense of safety in their own neighborhoods, largely due to our federal government’s acts of terrorism committed by ICE and the CBP against anyone they deem suspicious.

Renee Good was an American woman, mother, daughter, partner, sister, neighbor, and friend. Despite doing nothing other than driving and going about her usual day, she is no longer with us because a lawless bully of an ICE agent decided in the moment that he had the right to decide who lives or dies. The agent, Jonathan Ross, also uttered the statement, “Fucking bitch,” immediately after shooting her four times—not because Ms. Good did something to deserve her execution, but simply because Mr. Ross wanted to kill a woman who wasn’t kissing his ass.

One minute, Renee Good was smiling and joking. Seconds later, she was fighting for her life behind a blood-soaked airbag. And she was never a threat to anyone. This is the kind of brutal injustice with which Black Americans have been all too familiar many decades before the existence of ICE and to this day. This is also the type of savage violence that many people, especially women—as shown in endless TikTok and Upscrolled videos—in Germany, the U.S., the UK, Australia, and Israel are experiencing in real time for protesting crimes against humanity at home and abroad by their respective governments.

Marimar Martinez is another recent victim of the U.S. federal border patrol, who was unjustifiably shot five times by agent Charles Exum, but fortunately survived the encounter and was able to testify against him at trial. The list of atrocities committed by the U.S. government just since the last IWD is miles long. It makes me wonder how best to support those on the receiving end of so much unfair, often deadly, oppression, of which any of us could be a target. This is every American’s fight.

My hope is that something wonderful can somehow spring from these senseless tragedies and others like them. Because the insanity isn’t over and none of us knows when it will be.

Giving money or time can go a long way towards helping to heal a society’s worst ills, once we each make the conscious choice to play a part in ensuring there are far fewer victims of government indifference, overreach, and tyranny. Donating whatever funding or time we can, even if it’s only one dollar or one hour per week, to organizations such as the National Alliance to End Homelessness, the National Coalition for the Homeless, and Path Forward can help women and families suffering from homelessness and food insecurity. A nation is nothing without the strength and health of its citizens, and creating affordable housing for all is a major goal that must be actualized for the greater good.

Organizations such as the Fines and Fees Justice Center, The Bail Project, and the Institute for Justice assists persons with lower incomes and the poor with paying court costs when they find themselves having to fight against a biased and unbalanced legal system. By giving to these causes, we push the system to work harder for those without a voice, which benefits us all.

In honor of Renee Good, who was a member of the LGBTQA+ community, I implore more people to give support to the Human Rights Campaign, The Trevor Project, The Giving Block/GLAD Law, or SAGE Advocacy & Services for LGBTQ+ Elders, to help marginalized individuals and communities take vital steps towards equality. Please do not forget TRIAL International, which is a non-governmental organization that fights impunity for international crimes, including sexual violence, and supports victims seeking justice.

The late Mother Teresa was quoted as saying, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” I truly wish more human beings thought this way. The more of us that firmly decide to give even small amounts of our energy to help others on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis, the more we will see change in the right direction.

Giving is its own reward and a form of empathy that can mean more than we realize to someone in need. Giving can literally mean the difference between life and death. We gain on so many levels as a society when we recognize our shared humanity and make the time to act on it with great love.

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 Solidarity. Remember that to give is to gain so much on this International Women’s Day and beyond.

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 

Erin King is a member of the Green Party of Centre County, PA. During 2025, Erin was an elected member at large of the Green Party of Pennsylvania Steering Committee.

END OF ITEM

Green Party of Pennsylvania

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, February 6, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT 

Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader

267-977-0570 and [email protected] 

Green Party Women are Ready to Run

By GPPA Co-chair Colleen Schmotzer

The Pennsylvania Center for Women and Politics offers a course with the trademark name “Ready to Run,” for women who are considering a campaign for public office. The day-long program at Chatham University provides training and mentoring by campaign professionals and office holders.

I recently attended a Ready to Run campaign training designed for women. The day was quite informative, and I was pleased to see approximately ten women I knew from the Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA). We heard from various guest speakers who detailed the different teams essential for running a successful campaign. It was interesting to learn that the size of the campaign team can vary significantly depending on the specific office being sought, and that sometimes, a modest donation of $50.00 can be enough to win a seat. The organizers provided breakfast, lunch, and a snack, which was greatly appreciated. 

The event concluded with a panel of four accomplished women. Among them was the Chair of the Allegheny County Democratic Party, who emphasized the critical importance of women participating in politics. She shared an anecdote about a friend who successfully won a seat by running as an independent, highlighting that breaking traditional party lines can be a viable strategy.

One of the Green Party members who accompanied me to Ready to Run was Kat Marquez. Here’s what she thought of the training. "As a queer, non-binary person of color, the Democrats and Republicans have never had my interest in mind, and thus I can align with the beliefs of our local Green Party. It is frustrating that; 1. there was no one on the Ready to Run panel who wasn't from the two major parties, and 2. the two major parties aren't telling the full story. The Green Party of Allegheny County (GPOAC) did have a local candidate run for County Council At-Large during 2025, and one of the major parties challenged our signatures and took us off the ballot. This is exactly what is happening statewide -- this perpetuation of the duopoly that continuously shuts down true democracy of the people." 

When the floor opened for questions, I took the opportunity to ask, "What strategies can third parties, such as the Green Party, employ to effectively challenge the two-party duopoly?"  The Chair's response was direct: "Nothing. It's either you're a Democrat or Republican. That's it. You will never win being a third-party person." I chose to respond by stating assertively, "Watch! I will do it, you will see me there." This declaration was met with applause from the room, after which the question-and-answer session resumed.

Pam Bruno, another one of my Green Party sisters, told me, “After attending the learning seminar hosted by Chatham University, I feel I came out with a useful amount of newfound knowledge. For me, the most important information that could be used to promote the Green Party are the number of elected seats which remain uncontested, along with the small amount of funding it would take to win them. I'm not interested in running for an office, but with what I learned, I am now sure that I could aid in supporting a candidate's campaign.”

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 

GPPA Co-chair Colleen Schmotzer (she/her) has been working group coordinator on the Green Party of Allegheny Steering Committee. During 2025, she was a GPPA Steering Committee member at large.

END ITEM

Green Party of Pennsylvania

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEAS
Saturday, January 17, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT 

Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader

267-977-0570 and [email protected] 

PA Green Party Elects 2026 Leaders

On January 11, the Green Party of Pennsylvania State Committee met virtually to elect its leaders for 2026. More than 40 elected delegates and friends of the Green Party from 14 counties participated. They elected five officers to the GPPA Steering Committee, while one co-chair and the secretary are in mid-term. GREEN STAR, the GPPA monthly newsletter, asked the 2026 Steering Committee members to introduce themselves.

Colleen Schmotzer (Allegheny) was elected to a two-year term as co-chair of GPPA. She had been a member at large of the Steering Committee during 2025. Colleen told GREEN STAR, “As the new co-chair of GPPA, my initial focus will be to revitalize our four action teams. I plan to achieve this by actively recruiting team leads and team members from within the Green Party. This will involve outreach not only to seasoned members exploring how we can rekindle their involvement, but also to new members to understand their interests and motivations. Our Communication Team manages the public image of the Green Party. The GPPA Core Team assures the smooth functioning of the party. The Finance Team will increase the value of GPPA and plan the use of its resources. The GPPA Greenwave Team will recruit and support candidates for election and expand the reach of the Green Party.”

GPPA Treasurer Jeff “J.J.” Kondrich (Westmoreland) was re-elected to a second term. J.J. told GREEN STAR, “In 2026, I plan to make sure we meet our reporting requirements and have a robust, secure, and intuitive method of record keeping. If we can organize our data and finances securely, I think the Green Party has a workable future. To help us build the Green Party, I plan to work with our Finance Team to aim fundraising efforts at sources outside of the party, lessening the implicit financial burden of party members. Hopefully a new merchandising plan will also help with this.”

Tony Dastra (Lancaster) was elected to be a Steering Committee member at large. He ran for Mayor of Lancaster City last year. Tony told GREEN STAR, “As a new leader, I plan to bring a different energy into our conversations, not just talking about the issues to be worked through within the system. After last year’s budget standoff in the PA General Assembly, I think it is time to consider a PA Constitutional Convention or amendments. In my opinion, PA needs to consider a unicameral legislature to stop this back and forth between the major parties that have gerrymandered the state capitol into gridlock. Also, the uniformity clause preventing taxes that make sense for the working class and damaging municipalities needs to go. To build the Green Party, I plan to bring new members and involvement. It is time to be more looked-to for constitutional guidance and pragmatic governance. Having pragmatic candidates and approaches, does not mean changing our strong positions as a party. It means people who do not feel like they agree with the Green Party can still approach Green Party candidates for dialogue, despite knowing that disagreement is to be expected, especially at the onset of new conversations.” 

Wendy Keslick (Chester) was also elected to be a Steering Committee member at large. Last year she was a Green Party of Chester County delegate to the GPPA State Committee. Wendy told GREEN STAR, “I am excited for the opportunity to serve the GPPA in a state-wide capacity. In 2026, we will continue to see the collective failure of the two corporate-run parties, and the Green Party will have the opportunity to become the alternative that Pennsylvanians are seeking. I look forward to working collaboratively with other Steering Committee members to ensure that the Green Party is structurally ready to grow in numbers and to lead us to a thriving and better future for our beautiful state.”

Elizabeth “Beth” Schongar (Allegheny) was elected to be a member at large of the GPPA Steering Committee. She held the same office during 2022. Beth told GREEN STAR, “On the Green Party Steering Committee I will be looking at every effort according to three criteria. First, does it reflect the Green Party’s Four Pillars: grassroots democracy, nonviolence, ecological wisdom and social justice/equal opportunity? Second, can we do it: do we have the time, people, expertise and resources? Third, will it make the public more aware of the Green Party and what it stands for?”

Two members of last year’s GPPA Steering Committee did not stand for election because their terms end in 2027. Bryarr Misner (Allegheny) will remain GPPA secretary, and Tim Runkle (Lancaster) will continue as co-chair.

Incumbent Co-chair Tim Runkle told GREEN STAR, “As I begin the second year of my co-chair term, I want to first thank Theron Gilliland, Jr. (Allegheny), Erin King (Centre) and Barbara Laxon (McKean), the outgoing Steering Committee members for their commitment and hard work. They have contributed to strengthening the Green Party of Pennsylvania. Their efforts have helped sustain the party through challenging times and laid important groundwork for what comes next. I also look forward to working with the incoming Steering Committee members and to seeing them share their knowledge, skills, and experience in ways that will strengthen our collective leadership.”

“During 2026,” Tim continued, “my focus as co-chair will be on practicing servant leadership and helping the Steering Committee continue the construction of a comprehensive, member-driven plan for the future of GPPA. I believe our success depends on meaningful engagement with our members encouraged by listening, inviting participation, and creating opportunities for Greens to lead, organize, and contribute. Rather than imposing a top-down agenda, my hope is that the new Steering Committee will advance a plan shaped by the ideas and energy of our members. When we empower more people to get involved and to take ownership of the direction, we will continue to grow the Green Party as a strong, democratic, and principled alternative in Pennsylvania politics.

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 ITEM

Green Party of Pennsylvania

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, December 15, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT 

Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader

267-977-0570 and [email protected] 

Green Party of PA Members Active in King Day of Service

By Tristan Holland 

As the new year approaches, so do holidays dedicated to maintaining the progressive gains made in years gone by. As Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service draws near on  January 19, 2026, forward-looking and progressive peoples around Pennsylvania organize events to celebrate his contributions to the civil rights movement in which he utilized nonviolent and peaceful forms of struggle to fight against systemic discrimination. 

This coming year will be no different, as The King Center is hosting the King Holiday Observance Kick-Off, as well as aiding in the organization of events in their MLK Day of Service Project, which seek to foster community through education, various volunteer activities, and collaboration with local institutions. Other organizations, such as Global Citizen, have various events already prepared for the Martin Luther King Day of Service.

Green Party members are encouraged to show their support for the efforts made by Dr. King, and to safeguard the liberties and progress gained in the wake of the civil rights movement. The Green Party will keep pushing against the injustices that still exist and disenfranchise millions at home and abroad. In order to do this, there must be a start somewhere, and that start is to begin local community organizing, to build connections, strength, and support for a working class movement. Only through this form of independent struggle will we be able to make change in our society. That is why opportunities like the King Day of Service should not slip by us. They can be an instrumental step to gain experience and to incorporate other struggles into a wider battle for a better future.

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

Tristan Holland is a registered member of the Green Party of Montgomery County, PA.

For more information:

The King Center, https://thekingcenter.org/

Global Citizen, https://volunteer.globalcitizen365.org/kingday   

“Green Party Endorses STOP U.S. Wars” M.L.K. Week of Action.” Green Party of PA, GREEN STAR, January, 2023,
https://www.gpofpa.org/greenstar_january_2023 

END OF ITEM

Green Party of Pennsylvania

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thursday, December 11, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT 

Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader

267-977-0570 and [email protected]

Green Party of PA Endorses Declaration of Democracy

Green Party of Pennsylvania (GPPA) Co-chair Timothy Runkle (Lancaster) announced, “On December 5, the GPPA Steering Committee has endorsed the Declaration of Democracy statement from March On Harrisburg (MOH). GPPA Co-chair Theron Gilliland (Allegheny), who is also active with March on Harrisburg, submitted the proposal.”

“March On Harrisburg is a state-level, anti-corruption group which GPPA already supports and with which the Green Party has close ties and membership overlap,” continued Runkle. “MOH focuses on a legislative gift ban and ranked choice voting and is affiliated with Pennsylvania Action on Climate and Pennsylvania Poor People's Campaign. Furthermore ‘Democracy’ is one of the Four Pillars of the Green Party.”

Focusing on corruption within the PA General Assembly, the Declaration of Democracy says, “When it is legal to use money to buy political power and shape our society, we all pay the price. Our Legislature cannot serve both money and people. You cannot have ‘one person one vote’ and ‘one lobbyists dollar one vote’ at the same time. Every special interest has an army of PACs, and Super PACs to make sure that their voice is absolutely heard and the needs of working people are not. There are countless ways that money gets into politics. Countless ways that private, profit-driven interests are able to buy influence at the expense of the working class, our families, and our communities. While we lobby with reason, emotion, and people power, corporate lobbyists are armed with bribes and misinformation.”

The ten solutions proposed by the Declaration of Democracy are quite reasonable, “We demand a gift ban, campaign contribution limits, public campaign financing, bans on Super PACs, a ban on side jobs, and the closing of the revolving door. We demand an end to gerrymandering, open primaries, and ranked-choice voting, and we demand House and Senate rules that empower all legislators.”

Chair Jay Ting Walker, Green Party of Allegheny County, said, “It's disappointing but not surprising that so many no brainer, good government reforms have not come to a vote yet in Harrisburg. Hopefully the growing protests will finally get the attention of a corrupt capitol.”

GPPA Steering Committee Member Colleen Schmotzer (Allegheny) said, "The Declaration of Democracy resonates deeply with the core principles of a government that serves its people -- mainly Green Party values. It calls for an end to the undue influence of wealthy interests and a return to a system where lawmakers are accountable to their constituents, not to the highest bidder. By advocating for transparency, ethical governance, and the empowerment of the citizenry, this declaration seeks to fortify the very foundations of democracy. It's a call to action, urging us to recognize the power we hold to shape our society and to actively participate in the creation of a more just and equitable Pennsylvania. The Green Party is very happy to support this."

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:
Declaration of Democracy, March on Harrisburg, November 17, 2025, https://www.mohpa.org/blog/declaration-of-democracy

“Green Party Promotes Strong Democracy in PA,” Green Party of Pennsylvania News Release, February 20, 2019, https://www.gp.org/green_party_promotes_strong_democracy

Four Pillars, Green Party of the U.S.,
https://www.gp.org/the_four_pillars

END OF ITEM  

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, 

https://www.nokings.org/news/nearly-7-million-people-attend-overwhelmingly-peaceful-no-kings-day-of-action

“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

Green Party of Pennsylvania

Green Party Endorses Global Sumud Flotilla

Green Party of Pennsylvania

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT 

Chris Robinson, Communication Team Co-Leader

267-977-0570 and [email protected] 

Green Party 2025 Candidates will Appear on PA Ballot 

On August 11, three Green Party's candidates were accepted on the 2025 General Election ballot by the Pennsylvania Department of State. The nomination of one Green Party candidate has been challenged.

Nomination signatures have been approved to place on the ballot Michael Bagdes-Canning for re-election to Mayor of Cherry Valley Borough in Butler County; Tony Dastra for Mayor of Lancaster City in Lancaster County; and Alexander Noyle for Auditor of East Norriton Township in Montgomery County.

The nomination of Theron Gilliland Jr for County Council in Allegheny County has been challenged by three voters who claim that Gilliland did not submit enough valid signatures. The challenge will be decided in Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas.

GPPA Steering Committee Member Colleen Schmotzer (Allegheny County) said, “I am excited to see so many Greens running for local offices in this day and age. We need to break the duopoly, and this is going to give us a chance to continue to do so here in Pennsylvania. We wish them all the best! Theron Gilliland’s Campaign was challenged, but the Green Party is fighting back.”

Green Party organizer Chris Robinson (Philadelphia) added, "Our candidates will give PA voters the opportunity to vote for an end to hunger and homelessness in our commonwealth. Green Party candidates also stand for an end to political corruption and corporations controlling other political parties.” 

Those interested in volunteering and helping the Green Party continue to make history, may email [email protected]. Those who would like to contribute to the Green Party, may visit, https://www.gpofpa.org/join_us 

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 ITEM

FOR RELEASE
Monday, July 28, 2025

Media Contact, Beverly Rolfsmeyer
[email protected] and 267-977-0570

Green Party Stands with Handala Crew Seized by Israel

The Green Party of Philadelphia (GPOP) stands in support of the brave crew of the Handala which was seized by Israel on Saturday, July 26. The interception occurred in international waters outside Palestinian territorial waters in violation of international maritime law.

All eyes were on Handala as it transported 21 civilians to help deliver medicine, baby formula, and stuffed animals to the children of Gaza. The Handala, launched from Siracusa, Italy, on July 13, was attempting to break the devastating and illegal blockade on Gaza imposed by Israel and to bring much-needed relief to the Palestinians.

“Israel has no legal authority to detain international civilians aboard the Handala,” said Ann Wright, a member of the Freedom Flotilla’s steering committee. “These are foreign nationals operating under international law in international waters. Their detention is arbitrary, unlawful, and must end.”

The bravery displayed by the crew of the Handala is nothing short of inspiring. This was the third Freedom Flotilla ship carrying humanitarian aid to have been attacked by Israel. In May 2025, Conscience sailed to Gaza to bring relief to the population, only to be attacked by a drone which critically damaged the vessel and forced it to retire from the mission. Then in June, the Madleen was raided by Israel, and its crew members arrested, abused, and deported.

Israel has ignored the International Court of Justice’s binding orders that require the facilitation of humanitarian access to Gaza. Their continued attacks on peaceful civilian missions represent a grave violation of international law.

The Green Party of Philadelphia stands in solidarity with those aboard Handala and calls upon the necessary precautions and protections that States may offer in ensuring safe passage in the service of humanity and adherence to international law. We must highlight the conditions that prompt people of conscience to sail are predicated on the inaction of States to prevent this genocide from occurring. The United States government has materially and ideologically supported Israel in such a way that the genocide inflicted against the Palestinians ought to be known as a U.S. crime as well. The Green Party calls on elected officials to stop the genocide by refusing to fund Israel with our tax dollars and to cease shipping arms to Israel.

The Green Party of Philadelphia (GPOP, www.gpop.org) is an independent political party which stands in opposition to the two corporate parties. GPOP 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 GPOP, please follow GPOP on social media:  Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  

For More Information See:

Freedom Flotilla, https://freedomflotilla.org

Photo,
July 26, 2025, photo, https://freedomflotilla.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Handala-boarded-1024x573.jpg

END ITEM 

FOR RELEASE ON
Friday, July 25, 2025

Media Contact, Colleen Schmotzer
[email protected] and 412-616-4664

Building the Green Party in Allegheny County, PA

By Colleen Schmotzer

The Green Party of Allegheny County (GPOAC) has been very active this year on many issues that are currently weighing down our community. I am the Working Groups Coordinator for GPOAC, and we are organizing around homelessness, combating ICE, and we cannot forget about Palestine. The atrocities that are taking place there are despicable to say the least.

Allegheny Greens have gone to many protests such as No Kings Day of Defiance on June 14, Hands Off on April 5, and Sunrise Movement Picnic on May 31. There is always a nice turnout, and we have had no problems at all. Many groups come together with GPOAC for these events. Jewish Voice for Peace and Pittsburgh Palestine Coalition are just a few. If you would like to join our Palestine Working Group meetings, they are on the second Wednesday of each month.

In Allegheny County, the Green Party is also very excited to support Theron Gilliland Jr. in his special election campaign for County Council Member at Large. I love being a Green and all that I do within the Green community.

Let's come together and see what we can do. We are stronger together! Consider joining us no matter where you are located, we need you and your voice. If you would like more information about GPOAC, please feel free to reach out to me, [email protected]

Colleen Schmotzer (she/her) was a co-chair for the Abandon Biden (Harris) Campaign. She was also a team lead in Allegheny County for Dr. Jill Stein’s 2024 campaign for President.

END ITEM