Frederick County Progressives (FCP) play a significant role as social, economic, and environmental justice advocates in the local community. As a nonpartisan political organization and a chapter of Progressive Maryland, its mission revolves around empowering marginalized communities, promoting equity, and ensuring that every voice is heard in the democratic process. Through tireless advocacy and collaboration with various partners, FCP addresses critical issues such as public education, healthcare, housing, environmental sustainability, and civil rights. This article explores FCP's role in advancing these causes, its successes, and its impact on Frederick County.

Empowering Communities Through Grassroots Advocacy

At the heart of Frederick County Progressives' mission is a commitment to strategic and collaborative grassroots advocacy. Our approach centers on developing leaders from within marginalized communities and fostering coalitions to build power for social and economic justice. FCP believes that those most affected by inequities should lead the movement for change. This principle drives our efforts to support and uplift underrepresented voices, particularly those from racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, and low-income families.

FCP's commitment to nonviolent organizing and coalition-building is evident in our collaborations with organizations such as the Asian American Center of Frederick, The Nigerians in Frederick, CASA, and Jews United for Justice. By working with these groups, FCP amplifies its message and extends its reach, ensuring that the concerns of diverse communities are addressed at both the local and state levels. Our work with Progressive Maryland further strengthens the ability to advocate for change across the state, creating a network of progressive allies working toward common goals.

Advancing Public Education and Supporting the Blueprint for Education

One of FCP's primary areas of focus is public education. FCP advocates for fully funding and implementing the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, a landmark legislation designed to reform the state's public education system. The Blueprint aims to improve student outcomes, reduce disparities in education, and ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have access to quality education. FCP's efforts in advancing public education are balanced. We believe in the power of collaboration and have partnered with organizations like Strong Schools Maryland and the ACLU to host town halls. These events have been instrumental in raising awareness about the Blueprint among minority populations in Frederick County. They serve as a platform to inform residents about the potential benefits of the legislation and empower them to advocate for its full implementation. FCP's commitment to education extends beyond legislative advocacy. We also promote policies that enhance educational equity and access, particularly for historically disadvantaged communities. By focusing on public education as a tool for community empowerment, FCP underscores education's role in enabling people to break the cycle of poverty and achieve economic mobility.

Environmental Justice and Renewable Energy Advocacy

Environmental justice is another critical issue for FCP. We advocate for policies that promote renewable energy generation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and address the disproportionate ecological harms faced by low-income and minority communities. FCP recognizes that the fight for environmental justice is linked to social and economic equity, as marginalized communities often bear the brunt of pollution, environmental degradation, and climate change.

FCP supports state and regional efforts to expand renewable energy infrastructure, essential for achieving long-term environmental sustainability and meeting greenhouse gas reduction targets. The organization also works to raise awareness about the importance of environmental justice as a critical component of the broader progressive agenda. Through their advocacy, FCP aims to ensure that Frederick County plays its part in addressing the global climate crisis while protecting its residents' health and well-being.

Healthcare Reform: A Push for Medicare for All

Healthcare access is a central pillar of FCP's advocacy. We support comprehensive healthcare reform, including single-payer options like 'Medicare for All,' and work to expand healthcare access for all Marylanders, regardless of citizenship or employment status. Our endorsement of the Access to Care Act (ACA) is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that healthcare is viewed as a human right rather than a privilege tied to one's job or immigration status.

In addition to our work on broader healthcare reforms, we also advocate for measures to reduce prescription drug costs. We support the Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board, which aims to lower the cost of medications for state employees. We also endorse the Health Insurance Transparency Act, which seeks to hold insurers accountable for claim denials and ensure that patients can access the care they need when they need it. Our healthcare advocacy is not limited to legislative work, our members have also successfully mobilized local government officials, securing a proclamation from Frederick's mayor to support Medicare for All. Our efforts demonstrate our ability to drive change at local and state levels, using a combination of grassroots organizing and political advocacy.

Housing Equity and Affordable Housing Initiatives

Affordable housing is a growing concern in Frederick County, and FCP is committed to addressing this issue through policy advocacy and community engagement. FCP supports governmental programs that enable seniors to age in their homes and advocates for the construction of workforce housing units to serve public service workers and those with moderate incomes.

FCP also supports neighborhood revitalization programs like the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development's Community Legacy, Strategic Demolition, and Smart Growth Impact Fund. These initiatives aim to revitalize communities, promote sustainable growth, and provide affordable housing options for low- and moderate-income residents.

By advocating for affordable housing policies, FCP seeks to ensure all Frederick County residents can access safe, stable, affordable housing. We view housing as a fundamental human right and recognize its critical role in achieving broader social and economic equity. Our commitment to this cause is unwavering, and we will continue to fight for housing equity in our community.

Protecting Voting Rights and Civil Liberties

Voting rights and civil liberties are foundational to FCP's mission. FCP actively opposes efforts to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, both locally and nationally. We view DEI programs as essential for promoting racial and social justice and are committed to defending them from political attacks.

FCP's efforts to protect civil rights extend to voting rights. We have successfully advocated for policies that expand voting access, such as legislation extending voting rights to non-citizens in local elections. Our efforts reflect our broader commitment to ensuring that all residents of Frederick County, regardless of citizenship status, have a voice in the democratic process. We have also actively increased voter registration for Frederick County United States citizens.

Building a Stronger Frederick County Through Coalition-Building

One of FCP's most significant achievements is its ability to build and cultivate strong coalition partnerships. We have amplified our voice and achieved tangible policy wins by working with organizations like RISE Western Maryland, ACLU, Asian American Center of Frederick and the Nigerians in Frederick. These partnerships have been instrumental in securing commitments from local officials, such as constructing the West End Library and advocating for policies that reflect the needs of Frederick County's diverse communities.

Through our coalition-building efforts, we demonstrate the power of collaboration in achieving progressive goals. By bringing together a broad range of stakeholders, FCP has created a network of advocates working toward common objectives, from healthcare reform to environmental justice.

Conclusion

Frederick County Progressives play an indispensable role in shaping the future of Frederick County and advancing progressive values. Our work spans various issues, from DEI, education, and healthcare to environmental justice and housing equity. Through grassroots organizing, coalition-building, and strategic advocacy, we have achieved significant successes in promoting social, economic, and environmental justice for all Frederick County residents. As we continue to fight for a more equitable and inclusive community, our impact will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.

To join FCP visit us at: frederickprogressives.com; email [email protected]

Dr. William Reid

Chair, Frederick County Progressives,

a Chapter of Progressive Maryland