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REDLANDS >> Progressives here are speaking out.

Local residents inspired to stay politically active following the Nov. 8 election have formed Redlands for Progressive Change, an organization they say is focused on making positive, progressive change in the community and beyond.

I think whats really unique about Redlands for Progressive Change is that we came together after the election as this group of people really mourning the election and devastated about the outcome, but also really wanted to be proactive in moving forward and making progressive changes where we can, together, said Denise Davis, founder and facilitator.

The group, which meets monthly at the University of Redlands, was formed by local Hillary Clinton supporters following her loss to President Donald Trump in November.

At that time, Davis said, some group members made it clear they wanted to keep going, so they are.

The group has since reached more than 300 members on its Facebook page and has been involved in several local issues, most recently the citys district-based elections map drawing process.

Members also have written letters and made phone calls to state and national representatives on health care legislation, and participated in the Womens March and the March for Science.

Locally, the group plans voter-outreach initiatives to get residents registered to vote.

We are definitely advocating for womens rights, for the environment, for undocumented immigrants, for workers rights and for a living wage all of those things, said Kris Goodfellow, communications lead for the group. But on a local level there are some other practical things we want to do to foster community and a better Redlands.

While the group gives a voice to progressive causes, members also are working with conservatives in town in an effort to reach common ground on some issues.

The group is partnering with the Redlands Republican Womens Club, Federated, to host a forum in June on health care. The forum will highlight not only the perspectives on both sides of the aisle, but also where they align, Davis said.

I think its something that is not happening widely enough across the country right now, Davis said. If it goes well this could be a good model for community conversations that people could replicate in other communities.

After forming the group, Davis said she was wonderfully surprised at the diversity of its members, which include Clinton supporters, Bernie Sanders supporters and independent voters.

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Our biggest meetings were around 50 to 55 people, Davis said. Thats pretty good for a community group that started in such a grass-roots way.

Redlands for Progressive Change will meet 4 to 5:30 p.m. June 11 at the University of Redlands, Larsen Hall, Room 127. For more information, email redlandsforprogressivechange@gmail.com.

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Redlands progressives band together in response to November election - Redlands Daily Facts