S.H.E. Kindness Policy Program

2024 Take Actions

Personal Data Is for Sale — Fight Back By Dec 16

The government’s purchase of personal data threatens our privacy. Credit: Xavier Lorenzo, Getty Images

By Katie Block, Alliance Intern at Wellesley College ‘25

Did you know the federal government can buy your most private data — such as location history and period-tracking information — without a warrant? This loophole lets agencies bypass the Fourth Amendment by purchasing sensitive details from data brokers, putting communities of color, activists, and those seeking reproductive or gender-affirming care at risk of being tracked and targeted. Without action, this power could be abused under the Trump administration as soon as January.

The Biden administration can stop this by issuing a moratorium on data purchases while Congress considers the Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale Act to close this loophole permanently. Join the Alliance by submitting a public comment through the ACLU’s petition to demand protections for our personal data.

Tell the FDA to Ban Red Dye #3 and Other Dangerous Food Additives

Foods containing red dyes are linked to negative health effects. Credit: Fernanda Rodríguez, Unsplash

By Katie Block, Alliance Intern at Wellesley College ‘25

For decades, the FDA has failed to protect us from harmful chemicals in our food. From Red Dye No. 3, linked to cancer and still in 3,500+ foods, to BHA, a known carcinogen found in preserved meats, these substances pose serious health risks to millions of Americans. Even PFAs forever chemicals, linked to cancer, are still permitted in food packaging. Our food safety system is broken – but now, we have a chance to help fix it.

For the first time in decades, the FDA is seeking public input to develop a new chemical review program. Join the Alliance in supporting the Environmental Working Group’s petition urging the FDA to protect our health by creating a transparent, science-driven process that finally bans harmful additives.

Our Blood is on Their Hands — The Urgent Need to Defend LGBTQ+ Youth

The angst, particularly among the transgender community, is understandable. Credit: Michaela Vatcheva, Bloomberg

By Allie Vanden Heuvel, Alliance Intern from University of Alabama at Birmingham MPH ‘25

The past few years, LGBTQ+ youth have had to endure an onslaught of attacks and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation targeting our rights, freedoms, and lives. In the fallout of the Presidential Election, we are doomed to face even more. It is no secret that the next President will slash marriage equality, gender affirming care, and protection against discrimination.

Use of LGBTQ+ crisis resources and suicide rates have skyrocketed since November 5, according to the Trevor Project. We are dying because of this hateful legislation. Our blood is on their hands. To my community, I hear you and I am with you. Keep going, there is so much life left to live. We will not be forgotten.

LGBTQ+ youth need your help. I implore you to reach out to the LGBTQ+ youth in your life and be the shoulder to cry on, the ears to hear their anger, and the voice for when they can’t speak up. Advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity at every opportunity you can. Your first action can be joining the Alliance and tell your elected officials to stop targeting LGBTQ+ youth.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to speak with someone today. You are not alone.

Vote for Gun Safety Candidates and Support an Assault Weapons Ban

Young activists passionately advocating for gun safety, in front of the Washington Monument. Credit: Ken Cedeno, Reuters

By Alexandra Isham, Alliance Intern from the Ohio State University ‘25

Gun violence has shattered countless lives across our nation. Every day, more than 120 Americans are killed with guns, and over 200 are shot and wounded. This is our shocking and disturbing reality.

59% of adults or someone they know has experienced gun violence in their lifetime, according to Everytown. Tragically, approximately three million American children witness gun violence each year. This is totally unacceptable.

Everyone has the right to feel safe and secure. The fear of violence should never interfere with our ability to connect and flourish as a community.

We’ve had a successful assault weapons ban in the past that dramatically decreased gun violence. As soon as the ban expired, gun violence soared. It’s time we again hold lawmakers accountable and demand an assault weapons ban now. As Everytown asserts, “We won’t stand for inaction from our lawmakers any longer.”

Now is the time to express your voice and vote for candidates committed to sensible gun safety laws, including passing an assault weapons ban. Join the Alliance in making a difference – vote for a safer future and sign Everytown’s Take Action to ban assault weapons.

Vote for Reproductive Freedom this November

Presidential Candidate Donald Trump speaking at a rally (left). Presidential Candidate Kamala Harris speaking at a reproductive rights rally (right). Credit: Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images (right), Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images (left)

By Katie Block, Alliance Intern from Wellesley College ‘25

As voting begins for the 2024 election, the stakes for reproductive rights have never been higher. VP Kamala Harris has prioritized reproductive rights, advocating for federal legislation to return to Roe v. Wade to assure abortion and contraception access nationwide. She has consistently supported reproductive legislation during her time in Congress. MN Gov Tim Walz has introduced measures like the Protect Reproductive Options Act, safeguarding reproductive healthcare for all Minnesotans. Consequently, Planned Parenthood endorsed both candidates.

In contrast, former President Donald Trump supported the exclusion of reproductive procedures from Medicaid coverage, appointed Supreme Court Justices who overturned Roe v. Wade, and has called for varying lengths of abortion bans, and now leaving it to states to decide. Ohio Sen J.D. Vance has called for nationwide abortion bans and has consistently voted against bills protecting reproductive health care access, like the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act.

Clearly, you will be making a choice about reproductive rights this election. Please join the Alliance in voting this November 5 and make your voice heard on reproductive healthcare.

Minnesotans for Our Great Outdoors

Credit: Minnesotans for Our Great Outdoors

By Allie Vanden Heuvel, Alliance Intern from University of Alabama at Birmingham MPH ‘25

I moved from Wisconsin to Minnesota five years ago, unsure if I would stay for long. Now, I have no intention of leaving. Minnesota’s dedication to nature, wildlife, and green space is unparalleled, mirroring my own. The outdoors plays a significant role in my life, whether this be taking a meeting out on my porch or hiking local trails. I will carry this passion with me to the polls.

Following an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution 30 years ago, the Minnesota Lottery has funded conservation activities, with $1 billion being invested in land, water, and wildlife. This year, the amendment is on the ballot again and serves to extend its positive impacts. On top of protection, conservation, preservation, and enhancement of nature, the renewal will create programs to advance equity for underserved communities and offer funding for local non-profits. Join the Alliance in supporting our Great Outdoors by voting YES this November 5.

Speak Out for Regenerative Agriculture to Assure Healthier Food for All

Regenerative agriculture is the process of growing nutrient-dense, chemical-free foods with minimal soil disturbance. Credit: Western University

By Noelia Almanzar, Alliance Intern from Rutgers University ‘26

There is growing concern by consumers and farmers about our current food system. 80% of US consumers are concerned about the environmental impact of the products they buy, according to PDI Technologies. At the same time, extreme weather events and rising temperatures are plaguing our crop yields. These factors underscore the need for regenerative agriculture,  which increases biodiversity, improves water conservation, supports carbon sequestration, increases climate resilience and strengthens soil vitality.

Regenerative agriculture offers a climate-smart solution that builds resilient farms, increases crop yields and lowers costs. It also benefits consumers by providing healthier, more sustainably sourced food, while safeguarding our ecosystems to ensure adequate food for future generations. Join the Alliance in signing the American Sustainable Business Network’s letter to Congress urging them to support regenerative agriculture in the upcoming Farm Bill. Let’s work together to restore our lands, nourish our communities and protect our planet.

It’s a Bird, It’s a Fish, It’s Deadly Plastics in our Seas — Ban Balloon Releases

Rubber and mylar balloon are one of the largest threats to our marine systems.

By Claire Labat, Alliance Intern from St. Olaf College ‘26

Balloon releases can be an exciting way to celebrate milestone moments, such as holidays, birthdays and gender reveals. But what seems to be a harmless act is a harsh burden on our environment. After release, the rubber and mylar balloon remains fall back down to earth, eventually washing into our waterways. While this unique source of pollution may not seem as threatening as microplastics and toxins, it is one of the largest threats to our marine systems.

Floating along the water’s surface, these patches of rubber mimic food and pose the risk of entanglement or asphyxiation. Studies have found balloon debris to be the deadliest plastic pollutant ingested by seabirds, causing 32 times more fatalities than hard plastic. But they’re not alone. Of the rubber consumed by sea turtles, 78% is balloon debris. So far, ten states have taken the initiative to restrict balloon releases. Join the Alliance and get your state to take action by signing Ocean Conservancy’s petition to keep balloon litter out of our oceans.

Urge Your State to Follow Vermont’s Lead in Holding Big Oil Accountable

Leaders and students from the Vermont Public Interest Research Group launching the “Make Big Oil Pay” campaign just outside City Hall in Burlington, 2023. Credit: Vermont Public Interest Research Group

By Alexandra Isham, Alliance Intern from Ohio State University ‘25

Vermont is on the verge of making history with the Climate Superfund Act. This groundbreaking initiative would hold Big Oil companies like ExxonMobil, Shell, and Chevron financially responsible for the environmental devastation and catastrophic floods that hit Vermont last year, costing lives and hundreds of millions in damages. This Act would require corporations to pay billions for climate change cleanup in Vermont. Those who create the problem should be responsible for fixing it – something Big Oil has avoided for far too long, according to Care2.

While Vermont’s proposed legislation is a crucial step forward, other states should follow their lead and hold companies responsible for substantial greenhouse gas emissions to bear the costs of extreme weather damage, rather than passing the burden on to taxpayers. States such as NY, CA, MD and MA are already considering similar actions. Join the Alliance in signing this Care2 petition to demand that your state follows Vermont’s lead in implementing a Climate Superfund Act!

Assure a Healthy Future for Our Great Lakes

Michigan national park Isle Royale is consistently chilly and foggy, but offers some of the most pristine views you’ll get of Lake Superior. If you’re willing to brave the cold, you can even take a scuba diving trip to the lake’s many shipwreck sites. Credit: Jim Brandenburg/Minden Pictures/Corbis

By Claire Labat, Alliance Intern from St. Olaf College ‘26

Spanning over 60 million acres and supporting over 85 million US citizens, the Great Lakes are our world’s largest and most important fresh water system. Since 2010, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) has supported over 7,500 successful on-the-ground restoration projects and allocated $3.7 billion dollars towards the improvement in drinking water quality, removal of toxic sediments and pollution, restoration of native habitats and the control of invasive species.

Although the GLRI has demonstrated significant benefits for our people and the planet, its Congressional authorization is set to expire in 2026. More work remains to ensure the health and security of our Great Lakes, and it is for this reason that congress must reauthorize the GLRI at $500 million dollars per year for an additional 5 years. Please join the Alliance in signing the Alliance for the Great Lakes petition to tell Congress to act now by reauthorizing and extending the bipartisan Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.

Ending Racism and Protecting the Future for Black Farmers in the Farm Bill

A Black farmer happy to keep his lifestyle and integrity on the farm. Credit: FoodTank

By Noelia Almanzar, Alliance Intern from Rutgers University ‘26

There has been a dramatic plummet in the number of Black farmers in the US, dropping from 14% in 1920 to 1.4% today. The call for racial equity and food sovereignty in farming is crucial to address the historic and ongoing discrimination against Black farmers, from their farmland being taken to lack of farm loans. The Justice for Black Farmers Act will ensure that Black farmers receive the benefits and services that white farmers have monopolized for generations.

We must confront the USDA’s systematic exclusion of BIPOC people in farming to protect their rights to land and add funds to programs that help create a new generation of Black farmers. Join the Alliance in sending the Union of Concerned Scientists’s letter urging Congress to support the Justice for Black Farmers Act as part of the Food and Farm Bill.

Stop Line 5 Oil Pipeline to Safeguard Indigenous Lands

A grandmother and granddaughter protest the pipeline outside the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission hearing on Line 3. Credit: Lorie Shaul

By Preston Merrill, Alliance Intern from Brandeis University ‘25

In a monumental win, a federal judge ruled in favor of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa in their long-term fight against the expansion of the Line 5 oil pipelines in their homeland of northern Wisconsin. The judge found that energy company Enbridge is illegally trespassing on the Bad River Band’s reservation. Despite this ruling, the Army Corps of Engineers is rapidly pushing the permit process forward to help Enbridge maneuver the pipeline around the perimeter of the reservation, continuing to harm the surrounding ecosystem.

EarthJustice has created a campaign working with the Bad River Band to counter the efforts of Enbridge and the Army Corps of Engineers, underlining its negative environmental impacts and disregard for Indigenous voices. Please join the Alliance in signing EarthJustice’s petition to tell the Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a full Environmental Impact Statement and reject the Line 5 reroute project.

Eating Healthy? Think Again – Ban Hidden Dangers in Your Food

Organic grocer stocking fresh, safe produce. Credit: Tricities Business News

By Cate Rosa, Alliance Intern from Boston University ‘26

A shocking 20% of fruits and vegetables tested in the US pose a “high risk” to public health, and even more alarming, 12 specific commodities are so hazardous that children and pregnant women should limit them to just one serving per day, according to Consumer Reports’ (CR) investigation into the USDA’s Pesticide Data Program. Organic farmers use effective, safe alternatives to hazardous pesticides, but they often cost more, so the USDA’s risk-benefit analysis permits the use of toxic chemicals instead of requiring organic options. 

These disturbing findings reveal severe threats within our food system, prompting CR to urgently petition the EPA and Congress to ban the deadly organophosphate and carbamate pesticides. Together, we can ensure that our food is safe for everyone and promote organic farming as a viable alternative. Join the Alliance in signing CR’s petition to push for a healthier, safer food system for generations to come.

Stop Fossil-Fueled Forest Fires

As losses from wildfires mount, who bears financial responsibility for preparing for wildfires, fighting them, and recovering in their wake? Credit: Dave Hoefler/Unsplash

By Bryanna Lewis, Oregon State University ’25

New research by the Union of Concerned Scientists shows fossil fuel producers like Chevron and ExxonMobil are responsible for 37% of the total area burned by forest fires since the mid-1980s in the western US and southwestern Canada. For decades, these companies have known about but failed to publicly reveal the destruction that would occur as a result of their greedy actions. They will continue to deceive the public, profiting while people like me breathe in toxic smoke and fear for their lives and property during record-breaking wildfires every year.

We can’t sit back and watch our communities go up in smoke while corporate profits soar. Companies need to act in alignment with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement and reduce the risk of wildfires. Join the Alliance in sending a letter urging fossil fuel CEOs to respond to demands from the public and their own shareholders to slash heat-trapping emissions from their operations and products.

Nourish Our Nation — Advocate for Modernizing SNAP Today!

Farmers market in Massachusetts accepts SNAP benefits, helping to bring fresh, healthy, locally-grown food to those who may otherwise have trouble accessing it. Credit: Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership

By Cate Rosa, Alliance Intern from Boston University ’26

12.5% of the US population relies on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to meet their daily nutritional needs. With rising food costs and evolving dietary guidelines, it’s crucial that SNAP benefits keep pace with the latest nutrition science and the realities of today’s economy to ensure that every family can afford a healthy diet. The Thrifty Food Plan was a significant step forward, “lifting 2.3 million people out of poverty and reducing child poverty by 8.6%”, but it needs to be regularly updated for inflation and new dietary recommendations.

We need your voice to tell Congress to keep modernizing SNAP and protect the Thrifty Food Plan in the next Farm Bill. By ensuring that SNAP benefits reflect the latest in nutrition science and economic conditions, we can help create a more equitable food system that supports the health and well-being of our communities. Join the Alliance in signing Feeding America’s letter to Congress – together, we can ensure that no family has to choose between hunger and health.

End Cruelty, Embrace Compassion — Stop Animal Testing in Cosmetics

By Alexandra Isham, Alliance Intern from Ohio State University ’25

Many animals in the US suffer through painful experiments for cosmetics, such as lipstick, shampoo, deodorant and other products. Animal testing is a cruel and unbearable process for these innocent beings as they are injected with harmful chemicals without any form of pain relief, causing immense suffering and usually leading to their death. Safer alternatives do exist, including the use of existing ingredients and non-animal tests which are faster, cheaper and more reliable in predicting product safety.

The Humane Cosmetics Act (H.R. 5399) has been introduced to put this brutality to an end by banning animal testing for all cosmetic products that are made or sold in the US. There is precedent at the state level as Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington signed legislation (H.B. 1097) prohibiting the sale of newly animal-tested cosmetics in the state. Please join the Alliance in signing the Humane Society of the US letter to Congress calling for passage of the Humane Cosmetics Act which will stop the inhumane testing on rabbits, guinea pigs, mice and rats.

Preserve Our Last Resort — Protect Mifepristone Access from Anti-Choice Attacks

By Cate Rosa, Alliance Intern from Boston University ’26

The Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision was a clear assault on reproductive rights. Fortunately, individuals in need of an abortion still had access to an alternative: mifepristone – the FDA approved “abortion pill” that accounted for 63% of US abortions in 2023. However, in another desperate and invasive attempt to limit our rights and bodily autonomy, anti-abortion leaders are seeking to deny access to mifepristone by resurfacing an 1873 law – known as the Comstock Act, which bans mailing of materials used to produce abortions.

While the Biden administration has stated the Act is not applicable under current laws, this stance isn’t set in stone for future administrations. Based on the results of the upcoming election, there’s a real possibility that the law could be leveraged to restrict abortion access and even care provided for miscarriages. It’s crucial that we act now to overturn this outdated law and shield ourselves from potential GOP efforts to curtail our autonomy. Join the Alliance in signing Move On’s petition to protect access to reproductive healthcare.

Stop Canada from Killing Baby Seals

By Bryanna Lewis, Oregon State University ’25

Climate change is destroying the sea ice habitat necessary for baby seals to survive, and thousands are dying as you read this. Astonishingly, the Canadian sealing industry wants to increase seal slaughter. Despite the Canadian government admitting populations are as low as 3.5 million, there are indications the government is working to expand commercial sealing to over 600,000 animals per year. Innocent baby seals, most under three months old, have fought to survive their first moments and will be brutally tortured and killed for fur coat production.

Trading in seal products has been banned in 38 countries and continues to grow. People around the world, including most Canadians, have loudly rejected the cruel and inhumane slaughter of baby seals in Atlantic Canada. It is long overdue for the Canadian government to start caring about the welfare of animals. Join the Alliance in signing Humane Society International’s letter urging the government to finally end the commercial seal hunt and take immediate legislative action to protect baby seals from further horrific suffering.

Get Green Giant and Other Brands to Go Green

By Imani Holmer, Alliance Intern from U California Berkeley ‘25

There are so many iconic brands that many of us have grown up with that are near and dear to our hearts. You may not know it, but B&G Foods, their parent company, uses pesticides, monocropping and other detrimental farming practices. These practices lead to water pollution and pollinator loss. Fortunately, there is an alternative, and you can help make it happen.

B&G Foods can transition to regenerative agricultural practices and significantly lessen their environmental impacts through crop rotation, no-till farming, and integrative pest management. This shift could make a world of difference. Please join the Alliance in signing Green America’s petition demanding that B&G Foods take responsibility for their actions by implementing regenerative agricultural practices now. 

Stop House Attacks on Environmental Groups Seeking Corporate Climate Action

By Imani Holmer, Alliance Intern from U California Berkeley ‘25

The effort to simply ask companies to reduce their carbon emissions is under attack by House Republicans, even as the US had 28 major climate-related disasters costing $92.9 billion. The Republican-controlled House Judiciary Committee is using their time and taxpayer dollars to open an antitrust investigation targeting shareholder activist As You Sow and 13 other groups working to secure corporate action on climate. This is an attempt to mire environmental groups in expensive legal battles while lining right-wing pockets with oil and gas money.

Investors have a legal right to interact with other shareholders and the companies in which they hold a financial stake. They also have the right to point out the grave economic risks of climate change. Join the Alliance in sending Green America and Action Network’s letter to your US Representative to stop the Republican attack on climate progress and call out its waste of time and taxpayer dollars. The letter also asks your Representative to join the Sustainable Investment Caucus that is standing up for our freedom to invest responsibly.

End Shein’s Profiting from Forced Labor

Shein rakes in profits from fast fashion while workers toil 96 hours/week for just over $1/hour. Credit: World Stock Market

By Imani Holmer, Alliance Intern from UC Berkeley ‘25

A $3 shirt might sound like an unbelievable bargain at first glance, but that shirt’s low price is at the expense of sweatshop workers. Shein, a wildly popular fast fashion brand, adds over 1,000 new styles to their website every day, but it utilizes highly unethical practices to do so. According to a documentary exposing Shein’s practices, workers are forced to have 18 hour shifts and make only 4 cents per garment, which can be withheld if they make a mistake. Some materials used for the clothing are sourced from the forced labor of Uyghur Muslims. 

Shein’s unimpeded exploitation of its workers must come to an end. The nonprofit Shut Down Shein is leading an effort to stop Shein’s reign of fast fashion terror. You can join the Alliance in participating in their coalition calling for action and refusing to buy Shein fast fashion.

Plastic-Free Challenge for February

Credit: Plastic-Free Challenge

By Shelby Ganske, Alliance intern from University of Minnesota Duluth ‘23

Plastics are here, there and everywhere. We’ve long been disturbed by plastic litter and ocean pollution, but have become increasingly concerned about microplastic health risks in our drinking water. Unlike natural materials that can be composted and returned to the soil, plastics don’t go away. They simply break down into smaller pieces of plastics, which can harm fish and wildlife, and have largely unknown health impacts for us, according to the Plastic-Free Challenge. It often feels overwhelming.

However, there is something we can do about it. We can lower our own plastic use and waste through the Plastic-Free Challenge this February. You can join the Alliance’s Plastic-Free Challenge Team and start to gain points for our Team through simple sustainable actions, ranging from avoiding plastic bags, straws and toxic PVC to using reusable water bottles and cutlery. You can learn a lot and make a difference. Join the Alliance’s team in the Plastic-Free Challenge to help create a more sustainable February and future.