Equality SD, NARAL Plan Lobbying Days in Pierre Next Week

The South Dakota Legislature does not wage war on women’s rights and transgender inclusivity unopposed. Two important days of action are coming up next week.

First, Equality South Dakota is holding its LGBT Legislative Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, February 9. Equality SD plans the following events in Pierre:

• 1 – 2 p.m.: Democratic caucus meetings at State Capitol
• 2:30 – 5 p.m.: Briefing Meeting at View 34, with discussion of pending legislation and statewide issues for LGBT South Dakotans, plus training for lobbying and other action
• 5:30 – 7 p.m.: Reception with Legislators at View 34, all legislators invited, free hors d’oeuvres, cash bar.

Equality SD is offering van rides to LGBT Legislative Day from Sioux Falls and Rapid City, departing at 7:30 a.m. local time and returning around midnight, for $10 a seat. The EqSD vans will also pick up and drop off along I-90. To catch a ride on the Sioux Falls van, contact Lawrence at 605-691-9129 or actup@brookings.net. For Rapid City wheels, contact Curtis at 605-390-3053 or curtvprice@eqsd.org.

But why ride back Tuesday night? Find yourself a bunk and stick around for NARAL Lobbyist Day on Wednesday, February 10! Our pro-choice friends will give van rides from Brookings, Sioux Falls, Vermillion, and Rapid City, leaving at 7 a.m. local time. NARAL-SD’s Pierre actions include the following:

• 10:30 a.m­.–11:30 a.m.:­ Committee Hearings/Rally and Photos on the Capitol Steps
• 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.:­ Luncheon at First Congregational UCC – Rep. Paula Hawks, Keynote Speaker (Hey! That’s our next Congresswoman standing for women’s rights!)
• 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m­.: Recognized from the House and Senate floors
• 3:00 p.m.­: head home

A $20 donation will help cover NARAL-SD’s expenses for the day, which appear to include a cool t-shirt so attendees can proudly show their colors in Pierre. Register here to join NARAL at the Capitol on February 10 or to get more information.