My theory is there aren't as many protests against cutting Medicaid as there are Tesla protests these days as organizers aren't as in touch with disabled and aging people, who tend to be more isolated.
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From across the pond, this would be my humble theory too. This and then the beautiful simplicity of Tesla as a symbol and nexus of all evil: The salute that wasn't one, Musk's little tech gang, the WH-sponsored auto commercial, the nepotism, the memecoin craze - oppose Tesla and you oppose them all.
There are definitely protests for Medicaid, but they seem to be more concentrated actions by unions on specific days, rather than everyday people stopping by Congresspeople's office every day.
Not saying my theory is right. But, issues impacting disabled people can be less visible to the general public, especially as disabled people tend to be more isolated.
To be more specific, Medicaid centered protests need to be targeting Congresspeople who will vote on the final house bill to be effective. Protests at Tesla locations don't inconvenience the daily lives of politicians.
I just came from Tesla. Several had signs referring to Medicare and Medicaid. There were def more masks today than there have been in the past. There have been several folks in wheelchairs & 1-2 who appeared to be Down syndrome. Disabled people are showing out in Ohio anyway.
This predates him. Republicans have been pro-Medicaid cuts for years. Sure, he's influencing it, but this would still be happening without Elon with Rs holding the presidency, house and senate.
I'm disabled not in USA. in leaving meta I have lost m connections to action groups ( which are plentiful ) . But beyond that we can't protest on 72 hours notice often . I can protest for a good hour and a half - but the practicalities are 1/
need to organise transport ( can't just drive myself ) maybe even an over night hotel before or after . Carer . Many of us barely keep head above water with needs to stay functional normally 2/
2 weeks or a month notice I might be able to do . But - for small things like unusual med appts or going to something fun with my husband - it's not unusual for our lead time in prep to be months not days or weeks .
That’s a really good point. I do also suspect that with the Tesla protests, there’s a more concrete and noticeable impact we can have on one of the sources of the problems (Elon and his wealth).
Are there good groups to follow who might recommend actions specifically to support Medicaid?
From the sidelines my reading is that the Tesla protests are against any and all cuts to social spending (especially the extra-legal cuts). Tesla is a lever, not a cause in itself. At least that's my reading just from observing via social media.
Musk is impacting world politics. It's hurting wider because it's not just US or North America . He is interfering everywhere. It's mpirtsnt to protest both .
I have a family member on Medicaid, I’m on Medicare and SS, and I’m driving an older Tesla that I can’t afford to replace. Also immune compromised, isolating from uncontrolled Covid. Good times!
Musk is spearheading all of these cuts. Destroying Tesla is a punch in the gut to Musk. Punch him enough times and he won’t be able to go after Medicaid, SS, Education, VA, etc.
I think part of it is that other protests aren't being covered because they can't be sensationalized and demonized in the same way the Tesla takedown can be. Basically the MSM cares more about corporate bodies than human ones.
I agree they aren't being covered as much. But, there also doesn't seem to be a social media push for people to target Congresspeople at their offices everyday like there are for showing up at Tesla takedowns.
I've seen a lot of people targeting their congress people, though not necessarily in person. I've also seen fired workers and scientists protesting in person. I really do think a lot of that stuff just isn't being covered or shared as much because it's less sensational.
I personally believe there needs to be a combo for it to be successful, which is where non disabled people who have no access issues can step up and participate.
We were at a Tesla protest today - Saturday - in Walnut Creek CA - many many signs about Social Security and Medicare there - and most of the protesters were old-fogey 'fraudsters' like me - the organizers are older folks in touch with what is happening with seniors
I have tried to get involved in local protests multiple times but been completely ignored when I ask for the assistance and info from fellow protestors I need to be able to participate w a disability. The orgs that tend to be involved are very ableist and exclusionary in my experience.
(Once one such org advertised an event “for all abilities” so I went. They did not actually know what to do with a disabled person whatsoever. When I gave feedback, they simply removed the “for all abilities” part from all their future ads rather than just make improvements in accessibility, lmao)
Good point. However, the sad reality is they care more about the #TeslaTakedown because what's his face is losing money - so it's a more effective approach. Like protesting inside trump properties as well. They don't give a damn about people on MediCare #SaveSocialSecurity #Resist
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Are there good groups to follow who might recommend actions specifically to support Medicaid?
There is no symbolic method of protesting cuts —
Except to protest the people doing it.
I said they’re already protesting the guy doing it.
Seems like calling for half measures when full measures are already being taken.
I agree with you on what we need and want.
I just don’t see how taking the piss out of effective protests is effective.
Whereas protesting Medicaid is defense.
Musk is spearheading all of these cuts. Destroying Tesla is a punch in the gut to Musk. Punch him enough times and he won’t be able to go after Medicaid, SS, Education, VA, etc.