We should think local to help save democracy
New England Diary applauds the civic engagement represented by this group. It would be nice if non-Trump Republicans, if they’re brave enough, try the same thing.
Here’s a press release from West Bay Blue Wave:
West Bay Blue Wave (WBBW) is a community-driven civic organization focused on strengthening democratic values, civic participation, and community well-being across Rhode Island’s West Bay.
A group of friends and neighbors in the Cowesett neighborhood of Warwick organized in the summer of 2024 to host “Artists for Kamala,” an event that raised $10,000 in support of Kamala Harris’s campaign. Participants left inspired, but after the disappointing results of the presidential election, conversations continued, now focused on a new question: How can civic-minded Rhode Islanders strengthen democracy right here at home?
Neighbors continued to meet, and momentum has grown. A few events with local politicians and key State leaders brought more residents together. In October 2025, about a dozen people gathered to organize for the statewide “No Kings” protest. Within days, committees had formed, a logo and Web site were created, a newsletter platform and social-=media channels were launched. What began as kitchen-table conversations quickly became a coordinated effort, and West Bay Blue Wave was born.
WBBW is rooted in the belief that when neighbors connect, listen, and act together, we build more than community—we build power. Today, WBBW includes members from Cranston, Coventry, East Greenwich, Exeter, North Kingstown, Warwick, West Warwick, and surrounding communities. The organization welcomes anyone–regardless of what town they live in–who is interested in promoting constructive, respectful civic engagement.
• Core activities will include:
• Community education events and workshops on policy, local governance, and civic history
• Town-based and regional gatherings that strengthen social and civic connections
• Partnerships with nonprofits and service organizations to support residents in need, such as ongoing food drives
• Volunteer opportunities across West Bay towns
• Year-round communications—including digital outreach and newsletters—that help keep residents informed and connected.
WBBW believes that civic participation must begin locally. The organization works to ensure residents have clear information, a sense of belonging, and meaningful opportunities to help shape solutions. WBBW is one of many pro-democracy and human-rights organizations that have sprung up in Rhode Island. The group works closely with the state-wide Indivisible Rhode Island, several regional Rhode Island chapters of Indivisible, and many of the pro-democracy and human-rights non-profits in the state. WBBW encourages collaborations and joint activities with all like-minded Rhode Islanders.
WBBW hopes to demonstrate that democracy thrives not only during elections, but every day through connection, collaboration, and shared responsibility. By nurturing participation and strengthening relationships, WBBW hopes to empower every resident to be informed, supported, and engaged in shaping their community’s future.
For more information, hit this link.