Week of June 15: "Just Mercy," Cincinnati City Budget & Envisioning a Regenerative Economy

Let's continue our conversation on racial and economic justice this week! Cincinnati must pass the 2020-21 budget by June 30. CUFA needs to tell City Council what our priorities are for local funding with our tax dollars. Then, take a moment to explore ideas for building a regenerative economy, where everyone has what they need.

Here are the top 3 actions you can take this week:

Watch the film (for FREE this month!) Just Mercy, based on a true story from Civil Rights Attorney Bryan Stevenson about the wrongful conviction of Walter McMillian, a black man condemned to death for a crime he didn't commit in 1988.
Come to one or both of the City of Cincinnati Budget hearings! RSVP here for June 16th or June 18th. Both public hearings will be held at the Duke Energy Convention Center at 6:00 PM. Doors open at 5:00 PM.
A coalition of groups, including People's Action, called the United Frontline Table launched a new website loaded with resources: A People's Orientation to a Regenerative Economy. Check it out, and stay tuned for CUFA's popular education series where together, we will envision a world that is just and an economy that benefits everyone.

What's happening this week:

Just Mercy, streaming free from Warner Bros. for the month of June: From the film creators: "We believe in the power of story. Our film, Just Mercy, based on the life work of Civil Rights Attorney Bryan Stevenson, is one resource we can humbly offer to those who are interested in learning more about the systemic racism that plagues our society."

Cincinnati City Budget: Mayor Cranley and the City Manager released their proposed budget for Cincinnati fiscal year 2020-2021. Find the full proposed budget here: https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/finance/budget/recommended-fy-2021-budget-update/

The Mayor released this note to Cincinnati City Council: https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/finance/assets/File/Mayor%20Budget%20Message.pdf

This WVXU article summarizes the highlights of the proposed budget.

CUFA Members: On Monday, June 15 at 7:00 PM, we will discuss our position on the proposed budget. Join us to shape our statement on Cincinnati's budget. Watch for your email invite if you are a member.

Doors open for public budget hearings at 5:00 PM on Tuesday and Thursday at the Convention Center. Sign up to make a public comment as soon as you get there. RSVP here for one or both: June 16th or June 18th.

If you prefer to offer your comments on the City's budget from the comfort of your own home, you can participate through Zoom. YOU MUST REGISTER BY 2 P.M. THE DAY BEFORE YOU WANT TO COMMENT. Use this link to register if you prefer to deliver your comments via Zoom: https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/council/public-speakers-registration/cincinnati-city-council-speakers-registration-form/

Remember to let us know if you will be testifying in person or on Zoom.

The Census is still happening! Make sure you are counted! Federal funding and how much representation we get in Congress is determined by Census results, so help CUFA spread the word about the importance of filling it out. The Census is collecting responses over the phone or online. You can fill yours out here.