Fall–Winter 2026 · Two convenings before the January legislative session · West Virginia
Bringing together organizers already doing the work of defending democracy and empowering the people in West Virginia and the region — to share what we're learning, connect our efforts, and prepare together for what comes next.
At a moment when democracy is under real strain and grassroots organizing is more critical than ever.
The work is already happening. Across West Virginia and neighboring states, people are organizing — Indivisible chapters, No Kings rally organizers, mutual aid networks, faith communities, and unaffiliated neighbors who simply decided to show up. This gathering brings those organizers into one room to share what's working, what isn't, and what comes next.
Preparedness is a form of protection. These convenings are not protests or fundraisers. They are working meetings for people who have been carrying local organizing work — often alone — to compare notes, share tools and resources, and build the relationships that matter most as we grow the movement for democracy.
We are building a network for rapid mobilization, coalition-building, and state and federal advocacy. Statewide across West Virginia and across the region. When a moment comes that requires organized people to act quickly — in hours, not weeks — the response depends on relationships and infrastructure that already exist. And building the influence to move state and federal policy requires the same underlying network, sustained over time.
Rooted in the American tradition of defending the Constitution. Not owned by any party or ideology.
Every organizer working to protect democracy is welcome, regardless of political affiliation.
A shared commitment to nonviolent civic organizing as both principle and strategy.
We are hosting two convenings this fall and winter to build the plan and the network that comes with it.
A working retreat of West Virginia grassroots organizers — invitation-only. Some joining for the full weekend, some for the Saturday working day. This first convening is designed to seed the network: a working session to draft a concrete plan for statewide rapid mobilization, coalition-building, and state and federal advocacy.
Open to a wider circle of West Virginia grassroots organizers. Date and venue to be announced. If you'd like to be part of it, get in touch.
Organizers already doing the work. Not a general audience.
The people we're building this with:
If you organize with people in your community and want to be part of what's building — whether at the second convening or beyond — we'd love to hear from you.
The second convening will bring together more of the people already doing the work of protecting democracy in West Virginia and the region. If you'd like to be part of it — or to hear about the ongoing organizing between now and then — the easiest way is to reach out directly.
Email: people4democracy@proton.me
If you're not sure the moment is right to commit, that's fine. Send a note anyway. This is a movement building over months, not a single event to attend.
The September 19 retreat is the first. The second convening happens before the January legislative session. If both work, we hope to do this again — in other counties, with other host teams. Sponsorship supports venue preparation, meals, materials, and travel support for organizers coming from across the state.
Email us — people4democracy@proton.me