Sunday, July 12, 2026

Calendar & News ~ July / August 2026

Under construction

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PHOTO

CONNECTIONS

Portside Erie  "The dedicated progressive publication for Northwest PA, serving Erie and beyond" 
Good Zeal monthly e-magazine of Erie Benedictines
Benedictines for Peace mailing list 
Erie Singing Resistance    PIRiseUp@gmail.com
Erie County PA Activism Comprehensive site for local actions, resources, and groups. all in one easy-to-search place. Updated often.
r/EriePaPolitics  "voice your political opinions, see upcoming peaceful protests, & stay informed about local, state and federal government elections!" 

ARTS & FESTS & READS

Poetry X-Change Open Mic  Jul 19 , 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Werner Books and Coffee, 3608 Liberty St, Erie, PA (Multiple dates listed).

Between Here and Elsewhere: A Portrait of the New American Experience Opens July 29  Erie Art Museum 20 E 4th Erie. 

Benevolent Beers Erie Arts & Culture Aug 6 at Erie Ale Works 416 West 12th Erie. "Any purchase between 5:00pm and 8:00pm will provide a donation to this great group. " See site for other Benevolent Beers.

Erie Benedictines Glinodo Goat Fest August 22 from 1 - 4 p.m. Glinodo Center, 6270 E. Lake Rd. Erie PA Free and open to the public.

Blues for Shoes late August at Big Bar 14 E 10th. Erie.  Date tba  Live music, annual event for school supplies.

Fiesta on the Square Sept 12 Noon-tpm. Perry Square Erie PA "Hispanic Heritage Celebration... Celebrating Our Cultura"

CHQ: August Wilson’s How I Learned What I Learned Aug. 7–16 "autobiographical tour de force that follows Wilson’s journey through the streets of Pittsburgh’s Hill District" The Crossover Panel: Kwame Alexander, Candrice Jones and Christopher Jackson July 27 10:45am will discuss development on CTC’s commission of Alexander’s Newbery- medal-winning novel novel The Crossover into a new musical.


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Abolish ICE posters free download

BLACK HISTORY

The 1619 Project: Examining the Origins of American Slavery 400 Years Later  Nov 4 at 7:00 PM Bayfront Convention Center - 1 Sassafras Pier, Erie, PA Host Jefferson Educational Society. " Presenter Nikole Hannah-Jones creator of the 1619 Project. JES Global Summit. 

Original Philadelphia slavery exhibit has been digitized, saved and posted online. (Save Our Signs archive) "The Save Our Signs Archive/The People's Archive of National Park Signs" On the loss of history at the President’s House in Philly (Penn Capital Star) 


COMMUNITY

Speaking Truth to Power with Deonte Cooley (NEXT with Marcus Atkinson) Audio 1 hr "conversation featuring activist, organizer, and media voice Deonte Cooley. From speaking passionately at Erie City and County Council meetings to organizing impactful community forums, Deonte has become one of the region’s most outspoken advocates for accountability and change.This episode also provides an update on the Marchello Woodard case, explores the state of activism in Erie, and introduces Deonte’s new BlaXcess Media program," (aired May 22)

DISABILITY

Accessible Erie Guide "A Growing Directory of Accessible Locations in Erie, Pennsylvania" Project of Voices for Independence.

Presque Isle Beach accessibility Scroll down for information about ramps, beach mats, etc. 

Beach wheelchairs (Presque Isle Partnership) Free to borrow for the day, can traverse the sand

Disabiity Pride celebration in Erie (YourErie)



FOOD

Community Spotlight Herb & Honey (Bobbi Fenno / Erie Gay News) "What began as a 200-square-foot bakery kiosk inside Urbaniak Brothers during the height of the pandemic has grown into one of Erie's most beloved community-centered businesses. " May load slowly.

Ethnic Market Tours Hosted by Erie Arts & Culture. Multiple dates. 

Fresh approach: Erie organizations rethink response to food insecurity (JES-Gannon Collaboration by Chloe Forbes and Hoan Bao Nghi Nguyen)

SUN Bucks:  Pennsylvania’s Summer EBT program

HEALTH

RAM Free Clinic - Erie, PA   Sat, September 12-13 6:00 AM Erie Center for Arts & Technology 650 East Ave,, Erie, PA "Free Dental, Vision, Medical, and Denture Services All services are free and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Open to everyone. No ID needed. No insurance needed. No income requirements."

New Medicaid rules haven't started, but Pa. enrollment is down already  

HOME

B.E.S.T. Workforce Housing project Presentation by Marcia K. Farrell Exec Director at 35: 05


World Refugee Day in Erieo (Erie News Now) Video

Refugee-Owned Business Directory 2026 Published by Erie Arts & Culture

New Neighbors Coalition To Participate In Welcoming America"s Rural Initiative (WRFA)"New Neighbors Coalition is a community-based immigration support effort housed at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and funded through a NYS Office of New American grant." 


On Friday 5/29 Fairview HS students were planning to walk out of school to show they do not want ICE in their community. (r/Erie / After-Bid5206)"After receiving death threats from adults, and the school admins claiming there was “not enough planning” the students have been forced to call off the walk out."


ONGOING
See flyer below for details
MONTHLY FAITH VIGIL Aug 14 12:15pm Federal Courthouse




JUSTICE

City of Erie exploring citizen review mechanisms for police  (Erie Times-News) "The city of Erie could launch some type of citizen review group that would help the city probe allegations of police misconduct and make policy recommendations."  Civilian police review board discussions not new in Erie   "Here is a timeline of those previous conversations - and why a civilian police review board never materialized."  


Pardon Project of Erie: Resolution, Restitution, and Redemption (Jefferson Educational Society) "Pardon coaches Dr. Parris Baker, Antonio Howard, and Diane Chido will share, along with Ms. Margaret Simms. Video 1:21:00

KEVIN SPARKS
Erie City Council meeting July 1, 2026. (City of Erie) Public comments begin 
 at 1:22:40  Organizers gather in Perry Square following video of police striking suspect 7/6/2026 (YourErie) Video

LGBTQ

The Erie Pride 365 Annual Block Party & Resource Fair    Aug 8 Noon-6pm 2301 State St, Erie, PA  "vibrant, community-centered celebration bringing together Black and Brown folks, LGBTQIA+ folks, allies, families, and local organizations for a day of connection, joy, and empowerment. Featuring live entertainment, DJs, community resources, wellness services, vendors, and food, this event is about more than celebration — it’s about visibility, access, and showing up for our community all year long." 

REPRODUCTIVE
Federal health agency cancels most of its teen pregnancy prevention grants, including some in Pa. (Penn Capital-Star)

SCHOOL

Pa.’s public school code puts a priority on student safety, mental health (Penn Capital-Star) "New programs will create cyberbullying policies and provide social media literacy education for students" 

Back to School Drive  Aug 9, 11am to 1pm Central Outreach 3104 State St Erie PA "organized through a collaborative effort involving Aging With Pride, ASCEND Climbing/Queer Scouts, Bears Do Dinner, Central Outreach Wellness Center, Compton's Table, Erie Gay News, Free Mom Hugs of NW PA, the LGBT Fund of the Erie Community Foundation, NW PA Pride Alliance, Presque Isle Rise Up, and TransFamily of NW PA"

Blues for Shoes late August at Big Bar 14 E. 10th Street EriePA  annual event that raises money to purchase school supplies for local youth of the community. Live music. Supported By Odessa's Place/ Breeze Band Erie (814)397-4077  Maurice Troop mauricetroop814@gmail.com FB: Breeze Band @ Soul Band Erie

Blasco childrens library renovations  (Dan Shank.Erie Reader)

Education Voters of PA   "They are an exceptional resource for information about privatization shenanigans in Pennsylvania." ~ Curmudgucation

Neighborhood Art House After School Program applications start late August, free ECAT Teen Arts programs 

Teen Takeovers and the Social Pressure on Youth in a Hyper-Digital Age (Dave Tamulonis / Portside Erie)
 
SPIRIT

Church of the Wild July 25 @ 10:00 am - 11:30 am at Tom Huhn Preserve (3025 Route 394 North Harmony NY). The Associate Rector will be leading the service and would appreciate an RSVP to know whom to expect.

Wild Church at Scott Park July 26 @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Scott Park 2600 W 6th St
Erie, PA (Also Aig 23) at Glinodo Park Organizer Melinda Hall Emailmhall@cathedralofstpaul.org 

WORKING PEOPLE

Labor Day Sept 7    In Erie:  9:30 – 11am EDT West 10th Street & State Street Parade begins at 10am Presented by Great Lakes Building and Construction Trades

Remembering former UE 506 President Jimmy Nelson (UE News) “Much like his father John Nelson, Jimmy was a force of nature for UE and its historic Local 506,” said UE General President Scott Slawson. “He served in many local leadership roles and was President for 10 years. Jimmy embraced the true spirit of the Union. Words can never capture the contributions the Nelson family provided during critical moments in labor’s most epic struggles.” Jimmy Nelson passed on March 31, 2026

‘I hope you can live with your consciences’: Pa. minimum wage proposal blocked by Senate GOP (Penn Capital Star) "Senate Democrats mark 20 years since lawmakers raised the state’s minimum wage by forcing a vote."

GEMISH




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Saturday, May 9, 2026

Calendar & News ~ May / June 2026

May is National Bike Month

ACTIVISM
Erie County PA Activism Comprehensive list of local actions, resources, and groups. all in one easy-to-search place. Updated often!  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GQMvq8gAOiFI9niSPC0PkE5tdwzbdwhZS_L_FEsHn88/edit?tab=t.0

r/EriePaPolitics  https://www.reddit.com/r/EriePaPolitics/ "This is for Erie County, Pa (and surrounding counties) to voice your political opinions, see upcoming peaceful protests, & stay informed about local, state and federal government elections!" This is a reddit community. 


👉 Please note: these sources are separate from Calendar & News. Also if you have a local resistance  calendar or newsletter that you would like to have listed please send info  brynn16501@proton.me

ARTS & FESTS

Pride in the Collection June 6 at Erie Art Museum, 20 E 5th St 5 PM - 7 PM. "Celebrating LGBTQ+ artists in our permanent collection and community... Live music, creative cocktails, and light bites. Student $20, young professional $45,Community Supporter $75

Erie Juneteenth Week long series of events...Annual block party Saturday June 20th at Perry Square starting 11am 

Jamestown Juneteenth   June 19-21 Check page for updates.

Jamestown Pridefest June 13 Winter Garden Plaza, 410 N Main St, Jamestown, NY "celebrated in conjunction with the Jamestown Farmers Market opening day, featuring local vendors, nonprofits, organizations - and, of course, performances  ... proudly presented by Evergreen Health."

NWPA Pride events multiple events, Erie  and Meadville.

Mother Ignatia's "Ban the Bootleggers" Bash  June 20 from 6 pm - 9 pm at Glinodo Center, 6270 East Lake Rd. across from the monastery. Fundraiser fior Benedictine Sisters' 170th,  $40 ticket includes 2 drink tickets (local beer and wine), hors d'oeuvres prepared by monastery kitchen staff, and souvenir logo cup. 

Chautauqua Cinema scheduled to open June 27, 2026

Erie Poetry Calendar (Erie Slam) May June 2026 calendar 

The Amerimasala July 18 Perry Square Erie PA Parade 11am at 4th & State, Festival at noon Perry Square. Food, music, programming.

Natalie Merchant at Chautauqua Institute Lecture Series on July 29th at 10:45am, Amphitheater & Online  $40.  Cabinet of Wonder Live! A Free Family Concert with Natalie Merchant & The CHQ Symphony Orchestra Sunday, August 2 at 3pm Amphitheatre. Free (Ticket Required) 

Seth Myers at Lucille Ball Comedy Festival  August 9 at 5:00 p.m. (Northwest Arena) Jamestown NY NY 

Indigo Girls in concert September 10 @ 7:00 PM Chautauqua Institution, Chautauqua NY 


BIKE & ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION

Erie Bike Coop Kids Bike Giveaway May 16 12pm-3pm 436 E 26th
Active Erie transportation plan and French Street Bikeway Project. Presentation at Erie City Council meeting April 15, 2026 Starts at 4:59
Presque Isle Water Taxi  and EMTA P.I, Express  available for car-free travel to or on Presque Isle during the warm months. 
Safe Streets for All Jamestown (WRFA) Audio 42 min
PA Micromobility Fact Sheet (PennDOT) Laws and capabilities of bicycles, e-bikes, segways, motor scooters, motorized pedalcycles, and electric scooters
EMTA Transit Development Plan project website  "The project website features project status updates, key findings and data, and information on how you can get involved." EMTA monitoring ridership as gas prices continue to climb (Erie News Now) 

BLACK HISTORY

Street naming honors Fred Rush "facilitator" in Erie's Black community (Kevin Flowers/Erie Times-News) Erie City Council on April 6 unanimously OK’d a ceremonial street naming in honor of Rush, a prominent member of Erie’s Black community... Council's resolution designates East Third Street, from French to Holland streets, in Rush's honor. Deputy City Clerk Michael Lavery said council is working to set a definitive date for the dedication, but it is expected to happen sometime in May."

Voices of History Premiere in Erie Highlights Black History  (Erie News Now) "Premieres on May 14 at 6 p.m. in the Erie Art Museum. The Voices of History Erie production brought together community story circles from the Historical Institute of Culture & the African American Experience (HICAAE). Community members shared stories and memories of family, work, migration, and neighborhood life that were professionally recorded ensuring they are accessible for future generations to come. The premier will feature an exclusive screening and conversation with Pulitzer Prize Winner, Dr. Edda Fields-Black. In a partnership with Erie’s Black Wall Street and Morgan Moody. The Voices of History Erie videos will appear on PA Humanities’ website and on their YouTube page."

LEAF Book Club Last Thursday of every month at the LEAF Center, 1501 W 6th | 6-7PM May Book: When Trees Testify by Beronda L. Montgomery "award-winning plant biologist Beronda L. Montgomery explores the ways seven trees—as well as the cotton shrub—are intertwined with Black history and culture."

Marker, complex name honor Erie's known first Underground Railroad conductor (Valerie Myers/Erie Times-News) "A formerly enslaved Erie woman who helped conduct others to freedom was remembered in ceremonies on lower Parade Street on March 27"

Remembering Bettye Walker Chapman  beloved storyteller, playwright, educator, seamstress. and entrepreneur, "A proud Southern woman at heart, she carried her heritage with honor and made it a point to educate others about Black history and the importance of remembering where we come from." Bettye passed away on February 23.

BLASCO

From Keep Our Library Public : 
"We. Did. It. Actually, YOU did it! Thanks to your support, we have raised the funds to pay off the legal bills that kept Blasco Library totally public. Any funds raised above and beyond our legal expenses will be donated to fund library programming...
"Thank you for supporting this grassroots effort of ordinary taxpayers from all walks of life that sought to right a wrong and did!"

COMMUNITY

"Intersectionality" Town Hall Meeting and Community Gathering Sunday, May 17, 2026 4:30 PM  7:30 PM The 1020 Collective 1020 Holland St. Erie, PA. Hosted by Deonte Cooley and guest speakers and panelists. All welcome.   

Common Ground - From Barriers to Solutions: Understanding Poverty in Erie Webinar series  Fridays throughout 2026, episode schedule at link | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Event Location: Zoom

Black-led organizations team up for revitalization efforts (YourErie)

EARTH

Commentary and Call to Action: Closure of the Forestry Sciences Laboratory in Irvine, PA (from Allegheny Outfitters)

2026 Virtual PA Lobby Day for a Clean Energy Future May 28  8:30 am - 5:30pm "co-sponsored by Audubon Mid-Atlantic, Clean Air Action, Evergreen Action, KEEA, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in PA, POWER, Solar United Neighbors, Sierra Club PA, Vote Solar, PennFuture, Conservation Voters of PA, PennPIRG, Third Act PA, Young Involved Philly, Pennsylvania Bipartisan Climate Initiative, with additional groups TBA."

DEP bldg in Meadville gets new solar energy system" (YourErie)  "$18,000 of electricity savings expected in the first year alone." Jamestown BPU Building Solar Array On Top Of Northwest Arena (WRFA) 

Annual Allegany Nature Pilgrimage May 29 - 31,  Allegany State Park Red House area.

CHQ: Sylvia Earle Friday, July 3rd 2026 @ 10:45 am |$40 Amphitheatre and Online "president and chairman of Mission Blue, an explorer at large at the National Geographic Society, founder of Deep Ocean Exploration and Research Inc. (DOER), chair of the Advisory Council for the Harte Research Institute and former chief scientist of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A legendary marine biologist and trailblazer for women in science"

ELECTIONS & GOVERNANCE


April 30, 2026 Board of Elections Special Meeting  (Erie County PA) Video 46:31 min. Also available: captions and transcript.  Several speakers in public comments and County COuncilmembers Jim Wertz and Rock Copeland made indepth made statements about the removal of Jim Wertz May 5 Regular meeting of Erie County Council Regarding removal of Jim Wertz, many public comments plus statements by Councilmen Wertz and Rock Copeland, starting at 1:26:54. Special Meeting Board of Elections May 14, 2026  Video 6:19 Copeland questions legality of Election Board shakeup | Opinion (Erie Times-News) Erie County Councilman Rock Copeland statement on removal of fellow Councilman Jim Wertz,
 
FOOD
Farmers Markets and Locally Grown
🍅Region
🍅Erie County
LEAF Open Market Saturdays | 10AM-2PM W. 8th street side of Frontier Park. Starts June 13
Gibson Park Market in North East Gibson Park, North East PA Starts June 13
Little Italy Farmers Market 331 W. 18th St, Erie PA Starts in June 3pm-8pm
Pay-What-You Can Farmer's Market Various locations and schedules, check page. Volunteers and donations appreciated. builderie.org/hope/pwyc
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ALSO: check out 
🍅Edinboro Market  211 Mill, Edinboro PA 
🍅Erie Co-op 1341 W. 26th Erie PA
🍅Wild Urban Farm 633 E. 7th Erie PA
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Plants 
Wild Field Urban Farm Plant Shop 633 E. 7th Erie PA Fri-Sat May 9-May 30 9am-2pm  Also select plants at Herb & Honey Bakery starting May 2.
Annual CommUnity Seedling Swap/Sale Sunday, May 17 11:00 AM 2:00 PM The 1020 Collective 1020 Holland St. Erie, PA,
Pay-What-You-Can Plant Market In addtion to Farmers’ Markets, the PWYC coalition is hosting three weeks of Plant Markets! weekly May 18-June 5, visit website for dates and locations.
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Café
Taste & See Courthouse Cafe is now open, happily filling a place the previous administration left empty for who knows what reason. Cafe is open to the public, healthy food. 
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SNAP
SNAP Action Toolkit from COmmunity Legal Services

HOME

Care Supply Kit Drive at Purrista  Purrista Cat Cafe is at 30 W. 8th Erie PA "Purrista will be hosting a care kit supply drive starting May 1 - June 24th in the cafe. We are asking for donations to assemble kits to help unhoused people in our local community meet their daily needs." See link for details.

What to know about Erie's new zoning rules for development, ADUs (Kevin Flowers/Erie Times-News) "ADUs are smaller, independent residential units located on the same lot as a stand-alone/detached single-family home. A small backyard guest house would be an example"


Bill banning whites-only housing passes PA House by 1 vote (WHTM) "The bill also expands anti-discrimination protections for employment, housing, and public accommodations to a person’s sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression."

IMMIGRANTS
FUNDS
Benedictines for Peace set up Erie Legal Retainer Fund "The fund will offset costs associated with initial consultations, retaining representation, filing habeas corpus petitions, and other efforts to protect their rights. (This fund cannot pay for bonds.) 100% of the fund goes toward legal expenses."

donations for mutual aid needed for families in these situations. Please consider contributing
https://onrealm.org/cathedralofstpaulerie/-/form/give/IRF Cathedral of St. Paul, Immigrant Response
Fund. If you prefer, checks may be made out to The Cathedral of St. Paul and in the memo line,
Immigrant Response Fund (134 W. 7 th Street, Erie, PA 16501). 
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EVENTS
Whistle kit assembly night  Hosted by Purrista Cat Cafe on Wednesday, May 27 @5:30 - 7:00 pm. Purrista is at 30 W 8th Street Erie, PA.  814-520-8494   

"You Are Not Alone: Community Witness for Immigrants, Migrants and Refugees"   Friday June 12 at 12:15 PM at the Federal Courthouse steps. The prayer leader for June 12  is the Mission and Social Witness Committee of the Presbytery of Lake Erie. The witness is held second Friday of each month. Organized by Benedictines for Peace and NETWORK: Erie County Advocates for Catholic Social Justice. The witness focuses on prayer, solidarity, and advocating for human dignity against deportation and family separation.  Information:  ErieNetworkAdvocates@gmail.com    


JUSTICE

Bryan Stevenson on Courage at Severance Music Center 11001 Euclid Ave Cleveland, OH May 18 @7pm  In person or live online followed by a moderated Q&A"acclaimed civil rights leader, bestselling author of Just Mercy, and founder of the Equal Justice Initiative."

Second Chances for Juvenile Lifers in the Prison Population May 28 | 6:00 PM Speaker: Theodore W. Johnson, M.S.Location: ECAT: Erie Center for Arts and Technology – 650 East Ave., Ada Lawrence Community Room, Erie, PA FREE register online

Summary of public comments and County Council Council response on disbanding Erie County Re-entry Services and Support Alliance (ECRSSA) (by Alana Sabol / Erie Reader). Link to 4//21 meeting. Link to May 5 meeting additional public comments on ECRSSA disbanding.Remarks from Councilmen Wertz and Copeland start at 1:26:54

Scott Forster sworn in as Jamestown’s new Police Chief. (Supportive commentary by Jamestown Justice Coalition)

Following an investigation and resignations, what’s next for Pa.’s Human Relations Commission?  (Penn Capital-Star)

Heavy-Handed Probation and Parole in PA Prevents People from Moving Forward (Bucks County) PA "has the highest incarceration rate in the Northeast and the nation’s second highest percentage of persons on probation and parole."

LGBTQ+


Joy and a Call to Action at Erie's Transgender Day of Visibility (Rex Apps / Erie Gay News) 
Erie's transgender community finds joy, unity amid ongoing challenges (Nick Sorensen/Erie Times-News) "While dealing with a growing number of legislative bills targeting transgender individuals, Erie's trans community took time March 31 to celebrate having their voices heard in the community."

READS
Latinoland is CHQ 2026 Book Read. Online and in-person. Also,the  author Marie Arana will speak at Chautauqua’s Hall of Philosophy at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 17. Hosts Chautauqua Inst. and YWCA Jamestown. 

Edwina Tries… A Book Club ( by Edwina Capozziello /Erie Reader ) The author of the regular "Edwina Tries" feature tries a book club...The Erie Reader Book Club as it turns out, and reports back on the experience.

Jamestown Justice Coalition is starting a book club Online and in-person, FB group is private. "an affinity group for anyone who would like to further explore the mission of the JJC through literature. Books will center around themes of justice, civics, economics, community, diversity, and resistance."

War and the Humanities: A Reading Group June 16 at 6:30pm. Edinboro Branch Library Edinboro PA. "Registration is required for this free program. After registering, stop by the Edinboro Branch Library to pick up your copy of the book."



REPRODUCTIVE

Combating stubbornly high Black maternal mortality with ‘Justice and Joy’ in Pa. (Penn Capital-Star) "In a country with one of the highest maternal mortality rates among wealthy nations, Black women are two-to-three times more likely to die in childbirth than their peers. " 
Rural PA women giving birth in ambulances after maternity wards close (WHTM) "Ridgeway Ambulance Corporation in Elk County delivered three babies in the back of their vehicles over the past 18 months after the area’s hospital closed its maternity unit."

PA Medicaid abortion ban struck down (WHYY) Abortions are legal in PA (PA Dept of Health) Question and answer format.  The Supreme Court keeps abortion pill mifepristone available by telehealth (WPSU Radio) Nearly two dozen Dem-led states submitted an amicus brief in this case, including PA. 

SCHOOLS & YOUTH

Student Walkouts: What Are Students' Rights and How Can Schools Respond? (ACLU-Pennsylvania) "Here’s some guidance on the legality of different types of school responses to student walkouts:" 
ACLU Students' Rights Handbook  (ACLU Pennsylvania) "If you are a public school student in Pennsylvania, you have rights. This booklet tells you about those rights, when you can use them, and when school officials and police can limit them"
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Summer stuff
YMCA Summer Day Camp (locations throughout Erie County)
Free Summer Day program at Neighborhood Art House (June thru mid-July)

A lot of books get gobbled up right away at little libraries like this one in Bayview Park. If you have children's or young adult books to pass along consider re-homing them at one of these spots. Little Free Libraries in Erie County list here... If someone has a list of the unofficial neighborhood free libraries please share!
 
SPIRIT
Cathedral of St Paul awarded grant funds to support LGBTQ+ inclusivity and safe space (Erie News Now) Radiant Faith Ministry "in partnership with Compton’s Table, creates a gathering space for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, fostering community and inclusive experiences within the church."

Hildegard of Bingen, Herbs, and the Greening Power: Women's Bodies and Balance with the Natural World   Presented by Dr. Minji Lee from Montclair State University May 30 1-3PM Erie Art Museum 20 East 5th St. Erie, PA  "This lecture draws on Dr. Minji Lee’s recent publication, The Medieval Womb: Hildegard of Bingen's Views on the Female Reproductive Body. Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179), was a German Benedictine nun..." Registration preferred.

Mysticism & Resistance Summer Book Club​ Monthly on Wednesdays at 6-7pm June 3; July 1; August 12 at Werner Books, 3608 Liberty St, Erie PA. Hosted by Erie Spiritual Coalition

At CHQ:  The Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde  Sunday, June 28 @ 11:00 am Amphitheater & Online The Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde serves as bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington. In this role, she serves as spiritual leader for the congregations and Episcopal schools in the DC and four Maryland counties that comprise the Episcopal Diocese of Washington Yolanda Pierce July 2 @2pm at Hall of Philosophy & Online "Yolanda Pierce is a scholar, writer, womanist theologian and accomplished administrator in higher education...Pierce’s newest book is The Wounds Are the Witness: Black Faith Weaving Memory into Justice and Healing, which explores how Black faith traditions hold memory, confront injustice and cultivate healing." 

WOMEN

Women's Voices Have Power to Wow (Liz Allen / Erie Reader) Liz Allen's Women's History Month article featured stories of two strong and creative women. One of these was Bettye Walker Chapman, who passed on in February. Liz shared her memories of Bettye as a friend, and as a storyteller, performer, and educator of Black history. Liz also introduces us to the life and work of Jayne Simon, a talented local writer who creates historical fiction based on her family's history. She has written three novels, with the fourth coming out this month. 


WORKING PEOPLE

"WE WON!!!" Thousands of Penn State Faculty Vote to Join SEIU Local 668  (Penn State Faculty Alliance) "This is an historic union election and the largest union election in Pennsylvania’s public sector in nearly five decades."

May Day Worker Cooperative Workshop Kicks Off Research Team Speaker Series (By Emerson Bannon Cutri / Portside ) "On Friday, May 1st, the Erie Research Team held a workshop on cooperatives and worker ownership in downtown Erie. Around 40 people packed the room at St. Paul’s Cathedral on W. 7th St, affiliated with the Episcopal Church. The headline speaker was Autumn Vogel, an experienced cooperative developer and progressive member of Meadville City Council. Cooperatives are businesses run by members on set of principles including democracy and shared ownership. For example, in a worker cooperative the business is co-owned equally by the workers, and in a housing cooperative it is owned by its residents. 
"The Erie Research Team is a volunteer-run policy and research group, which works with local grassroots organizations and progressive public officials, and is the publisher of Portside. This was the inaugural event of their Speaker Series, giving an alternative perspective to the traditional events held by other organizations in Erie."

MARLENE

In Memoriam: Sister Marlene Bertke OSB  who passed March 21, 2026 at the age of 94. You can read her community's prayer, remembrance, and celebration of "a lifetime of cultivating peace, justice, and mouthwatering tomatoes" at link.
Marlene on trip to No Drones at Niagara protest in 2013 held at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station

~~~~~
PHOTOS: Deb Spilko

Calendar and local info sharing for people who believe "a better world is possible." Focus is local/regional. All listed upcoming events are nonviolent. Not affiliated with any organization/ Submissions, corrections etc to brynn16501@proton.me
Blog URL https://eriebluegreen.blogspot.com/ 

Always confirm info with the original source!

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Saturday, May 2, 2026

No Kings 3 & May Day coverage, links, and images

NO KINGS 3

ERIE
Portside Erie Substack Gallery and Article (Emerson Bannon Cutri)
GoErie.com gallery (Greg Wohlford) photos of the three events in Erie County 
Goerie.com video of Harborcreek event (Greg Wohlford) video of Harborcreek event

MEADVILLE  

SOUTHERN TIER REGION
Chautauqua Today article and gallery about events in Jamestown and Fredonia NY
Times-Observer article (paywall) Article about events in Jamestown, Fredonia, and Warren. 
Warren PA reddit post _Includes post about event in Warren PA, and a good number of comments. From OP: "Decent turnout(100-200). Met the PA65 democratic candidate, destiny Howard(takes zero big money), and overall it was pretty mellow except for the few big trucks driven by micro appendage owners that burned rubber and revved up next to us while telling us we were all #1s." ~ u/social_seclusion

MAY DAY
Working on it
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Sunday, March 8, 2026

CALENDAR & NEWS ~ March /April 2026

NO KINGS 3

ERIE  Mar 28 @ 12 – 2pm Perry Square Erie, PA 16501
HARBORCREEK Mar 28 10:30-1130am Intersection of Buffalo and Nagle Road Erie, PA 16511 (bus route 25)
NORTH EAST, PA  Mar 28 @ 2pm -4pm North East, PA U.S. 20 & Lake Street North East, PA 16428
CHAUTAUQUA, NY   Mar 28 @ 11am – 1pm Chautauqua Institution, 67 Bestor Plaza, Chautauqua, NY 14722
JAMESTOWN NY    Mar 28 @ 11am – Noon Performers, Noon-2pm Street protests Dow Park Jamestown NY 
MEADVILLE   March 28 11am – 12:30pm Diamond Park Square Meadville, PA 16335
NORTHERN CHQ   Mar 28 @ 3 – 5pm 219 Central Ave Fredonia, NY 14063
More info: nokings.org  and  mobilize.us

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ACTIVISM & RESOURCES

Erie County PA Activism Comprehensive list of local actions, resources, and groups. all in one easy-to-search place. Updated often!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GQMvq8gAOiFI9niSPC0PkE5tdwzbdwhZS_L_FEsHn88/edit?tab=t.0

ARTS & FESTS & READS

Erie Resistance Singing March 12- at 6pm Unitarian Universalist Congregation 7180 Perry Hwy, Erie, PA "Come share some tunes!!!" RSVP: PIRiseUp@gmail.com

2026 Women’s Art Show at Mount  "Pieces of Peace" The art show may be viewed any day of the week, between 1:00 - 4:00 PM, in the Chapter 57 Gallery at Mount Saint Benedict Monastery 6101 E Lake Rd, Erie, PA . The show will remain in the gallery through Easter.

Movies at The Reg - The Testament of Ann Lee (2025)  March 25 @ 7pm at Reg Lenna,  116 East 3rd Street Jamestown, NY.  Historical musical drama film about  Ann Lee, founder of the devotional 19th century utopian sect known as Shakers - who preached gender, pacifism,social equalityand celibacy - and was revered by her followers. Music inspired by Shaker hymns and texts. 

Multicultural Dance Night 2026  March 27 @7:00 PM at Erie Playhouse 13 W 10th, Erie PA  " Local artists will present dance and music in a celebration of diversity within the Erie community. Audience members are invited to join performers on stage for an interactive experience." Students with ID: $10/General $20

Sunny War in concert March 28 at 7:30 PM Struthers Library Theatre, Sally's Encore Theatre Bar,  302 W 3rd Ave. Warren, PA. Free.

Monthly Calendar of Erie Poetry Events calendar by Erie Slam

A Doll's House Erie Playhouse, 13 W 10th, Erie,  April 10 - 26 Playwright Amy Herzog’s acclaimed adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's groundbreaking 1879 play that critiques 19th-century marriage and gender roles.

The Audacity: Queer Imaginaries in Art and Writing April 29 at 630pm Erie Art Museum 20 E 5th St. Erie, PA Instructor: Clayton Bradshaw-Mittal. Discussion follows. Seminar included with Museum admission. "We also ask that participants mark their attendance with donations which will go directly to Compton’s Table..."  Registration and Materials Required.

Youngstown May Day Festival, May 1-3, 2026 Calvin Center 755 Mahoning Ave, Youngstown Ohio. "Annual celebration of labor, human rights, climate justice, and all things spring!"

ACLU-PA Art contest "Open to art creatives ages 18–30, the contest seeks original artwork that explores the meaning and importance of due process to our civil liberties and freedoms. "

Finding Black bookstores in the region Directory compiled and promoted by National Association of Black Bookstores (NAB²).

 "No Kings" music links   Links to songs (recordings) from and around the No Kings and recent resistance events, various artists, various genres.

BIKE

The Erie Bike Co-op is having its Spring Open on March 28 from 10am-2pm. The event includes bicycle giveaways and a variety of donation-based bicycles as well as pay-what-you-can tune ups (pedal bikes only, they can't service e-bikes), tours of the upgraded shop space, and rollout of their new community tool share program. They'll be collecting donations to outfit a new slate of work benches with tools for this program as well. Check the Facebook page for updates, and sign up for the co-op's email newsletter for more info. Erie Bike Co-op is at 436 E 26th, Erie 


BLACK HISTORY

Marcus Atkinson announces 24/7 Black radio "BlaXcess Media, a brand-new radio network operating under the Lilly Broadcasting umbrella on WICU-FM 92.7 HD2. Built to amplify culture, conversation, and community, BlaXcess Media delivers Black radio 24/7—right here in Erie."

Voices of History project spotlights Erie’s Black heritage (PA Humanities) Erie stories scheduled to be released this year. Part of a statewide effort to collect and celebrate the stories, family histories, struggles, and triumphs of Black Pennsylvanians in the 20th and 21st centuries, preserved digitally.

Rev. Jesse Jackson’s inspiring impact remembered by Erie leaders (Kevin Flowers/Erie Times-News) leaders

Historical Institute of Culture & the African American Experience. 315 East 9th Street, Erie, PA (814) 920-2851 BishopCurtisJones@gmail.com As of February 2026 they were experiencing boiler trouble, so best to check first before visiting.

African American Heritage House at Chautauqua updates  (AAHH)

How legacy of slavery shaped PA and Philadelphia (Penn Capital-Star) Interview with historian Kathleen Brown, a University of Pennsylvania professor, in response to Trump admin exhibit removal in Philly. 

COMMUNITY

Jaime Kinder and the grassroots revolution in Meadville (PA Humanities) Feature on Meadville mayor and her participation in PA Heart & Soul. (published 8/27/2025)

A Hand Up: Strengthening Community Through Dignity and Partnership- March 15 at 10:30 AM Unitarian Universalist Church of Meadville 346 Chestnut St., Meadville PA  Presenter will be Jason Nesbitt, Executive Director of the Center for Family Services, serving Crawford and Venango Counties. 

A Look at Erie'a East Side Renaissance (Erie Times-News) Video

Reddit conversation about living on lower eastside Erie Pretty good discussion, from people who actually live or lived there.

Here's what new US census data tells us about city of Erie (Kevin Flowers/Erie Times-News)

EARTH

Ecotopia: Groundwork Erie Book Club Mar 18, 6:00 PM Werner Books and Coffee, 3608 Liberty St, Erie, PA

Spring Tap Talk April 8 at 6 pm at Riverside Brewing Company in Cambridge Springs, PA "Grab a drink and listen to Kelly Boulton, Director of Sustainability from Allegheny College."

Festival of the Birds at Presque Isle May 15-17

WNY Land Conservancy Raising Funds to Acquire Bear Lake (WNYLC) " a key piece in a growing conservation corridor in northern Chautauqua County... these lands will form a connected network of forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitat totaling nearly 1,000 acres across 2.5 miles...also an important component of the WNY Wildway" ...   French Creek Hemlock Hill (WeConservePA) now open to "leave no trace" recreation Morton family donated 249 acres to French Creek Conservatory, borders the Seneca Division of the Erie National Wildlife Refuge.

ELECTIONS & GOVERNANCE

Justin Wagner from Mercer Co. running against Mike Kelly "Veteran Engineer.Pro Union,Pro Worker" "Mercer County’s Homegrown Candidate"

Justin Wagner Meet and Greet  March 26 – 6-8pm Edinboro Hotel, 100 Meadville St, Edinboro

FYI: Be aware that the new "Liberal Party of PA" is actually a Libertarian Party split-off The party was formed by those libertarians feeling their party had been moving too far to the right. Check out their website and postions because if they run in the general election this year the name will cause some confusion. 

FOOD

Annual CommUnity Seed Swap at 1020 Collective March 21 10am-1pm 1020 Holland St Erie PA Plant sale in May. "These events are free and open to the public!" (also Seedling Swap May 17)

Erie Food Policy Advisory Council Community Meeting Schedule Change FPAC community meetings moved to 4th Wednesday of each month. 4:30 PM - 5 PM: Optional Community Potluck Social 5 PM - 6 PM: FPAC Meeting (regular business and community discussion) SSJNN Eastside Office or Virtual 436 East 26th St. Erie, PA" FPAC current newsletter


HOME

Housing Listening Sessions March 11 6pm Cathedral of St Paul, 134 W 7th Erie PA
March 14 12pm Quality of Life Learning Center, 2046 E 19th Erie PA

Dave Brennan says PA vacant buildings could solve its housing crisis (Erie Times-News)

Jamestown Justice Coalition presents housing issues to city govt council (WRFA)


IMMIGRANTS
 
USCRI Fundraiser Tees: Preorders March 3-31 Herb & Honey Bakery teaming up with Erie USCRI all profits will go to USCRI " The garment-dyed Comfort Colors tee has a welcoming graphic designed by a local artist on the front, while the back displays translations of “You Belong Here” in the most common languages spoken by our immigrant and refugee neighbors"

City of Erie to Expand Support for Immigrants and Refugees, Limit Cooperation with ICE (Emerson Bannon Cutri / Portside) Erie City Council approves welcoming city ordinance (Kevin Flowers / Erie Times-News)

Erie County Council votes to remove ICE from prison detention contract (AJ Rao/ Erie Times-News) County executive, U.S. Marshals work to draft new agreement following ICE vote out (YourErie)

How will Erie respond if targeted by ICE? | Opinion (Zoe Zolbrod/Erie Times-News)

ICE in Erie: PA United's Rapid Response Network Established to Increase Protections, Inform Neighbors (Carlos Mora /Erie Reader) "If you see immigration enforcement activity, or if a loved one has been detained, you can call our 24/7 hotline at 814-580-7090. Trained volunteers will answer and help coordinate support. If you want to get involved or learn more, you can reach us at eriedeiced@protonmail.com. "

"You are Not Alone" monthly vigil March 13 12:15 PM in front of the Federal Courthouse on South Park Row in Erie. Organized this month by Erie-Meadville District Anti-racism Team, WPA Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Songs That Remember: Oral Traditions and Cultural Resilience in Diasporic Families 16 Mar Featuring: Shreelina Ghosh, Ph.D 7:00 PM Jefferson Ed. Society 3207 State, Erie $10.30
w/Guest $15.45

Books and Beers: The Wind Knows My Name by Isabel Allende March 22 at Erie Ale Works 416 W. 12th Erie 12:30pm

🦬  WNY
New Neighbors Coalition Jamestown NY "We are a grassroots, community-minded, volunteer network committed to welcoming immigrants to Jamestown, NY"
Fredonia march takes aim at ICE policies (Observer Today)
NY AG Letitia James investigates death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam (Mother Jones) Blind refugee dumped by Border Patrol in Buffalo Feb. 24.
New Trump policy threatens Buffalo refugees (Investigative Post)

☘ ALSO
 From Famine to Feast: The Story of the Irish in Erie 1850-1950 (Michael B. O'Connell/ Journal of Erie Studies)
JUSTICE

PA to expand successful "Little Scandinavia" housing project to SCI Cambridge Springs, 2 others (PennLive) "The state Department of Corrections is in the process of expanding a pilot housing program modeled after more humane prisons in Scandanavia to three additional prisons"

Mercy Anchor Community Center: ‘Everybody deserves a second chance’ (Kevin Flowers / Erie Times-News) " The Erie nonprofit provides both transitional and long-term housing for homeless women and children who have been affected by substance abuse, domestic violence and other hardships." 

SPIRIT

"You are Not Alone" monthly vigil March 13 12:15 PM in front of the Federal Courthouse on South Park Row in Erie. "If your faith community would like to participate in leading one of these peaceful gatherings, please contact us to get scheduled."

Evensong Led by Erie Spiritual Coalition at the Cathedral "Join us on Sunday, March 22 from 5:00 P.M. until 5:45 P.M. for an Evensong following the tradition of Dorothy Soelle. All faiths and all people are welcome for a time of singing, poetry and sacred texts. Let’s create a community of resistance." Led by the Erie Spiritual Coalition at the Cathedral of St. Paul 134 W 7th St Erie, PA

Archbishop Oscar Romero Award on March 24, the feast day of Saint Oscar Romero, held at 7 p.m. in the Mercy Heritage Room of Mercyhurst University, Erie PA

Good Friday Pilgrimage for Peace on Friday, April 3, 2026, beginning at 11:00 am at St. Peter Cathedral, 10th and Sassafras Streets in Erie. Racism is the focus of this year’s contemporary Stations of the Cross. All are welcome to participate. Sponsored by Erie Benedictines for Peace. Details at link

WOMEN'S HISTORY

Women Making History 2026 .Mercyhurst University Performing Arts Center Erie PA March 30, 2026 at 7:00 pm Admission is free, and the public is encouraged to attend.

WQLN Chronicles: Ida Tarbell: Part I and  Part II  Ida Minerva Tarbell, born and raised in northwest PA, was an American writer, investigative journalist, biographer, lecturer, and one of the leading muckrakers and reformers of the Progressive Era of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her 1904 book The History of Standard Oil contributed to the breakup of the Standard Oil monopoly, and inspired Progressive Era reforms. Aired: 01/22/25

GEMISH

Paul Zolbrod Remembered Paul Zolbrod's's daughter Zoe recently wrote a thoughtful opinion on ICE (see under Immigrants heading), and I was reminded that she had written a very nice remembrance when her father passed last year. Paul Zolbrod taught at Allegheny from the 1960s to the 1990s. See Zoe Zolbrod's remembrance at link.


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Calendar and local info sharing for people who believe "a better world is possible." Focus is local/regional. All listed upcoming events are nonviolent. Not affiliated with any organization/ Submissions, corrections etc to brynn16501@proton.me
Blog URL https://eriebluegreen.blogspot.com/ 

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