“But even an ordinary secretary or a housewife or a teenager can, within their own small ways, turn on a small light in a dark room.” Miep Gies,
Dear Friend, On Wednesday morning, I spoke with an attorney at Democracy Forward about representing Economic Action Maryland Fund (Economic Action) in a challenge asking the court to stop Russ Vogt, Acting Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) from transferring funds from the CFPB funds to the Federal Reserve. Economic Action is uniquely positioned as a plaintiff. As the only statewide grassroots consumer protection group in Maryland, we combine direct services with policy advocacy at the city, state, and federal level. Our Securing Older Adult Resources (SOAR) team uses CFPB materials in our financial education classes with older adults. Our new Guide to Medical Debt which is available online and through free community Know Your Rights presentations advises participants to file complaints with the CFPB, and our policy advocacy team uses the CFPB complaint database to understand the type and nature of consumer complaints in Maryland. Last night, we learned that our lawsuit was successful. The Trump Administration agreed not to unilaterally defund the CFPB until a case is heard in the challenge. This reprieve means that the CFPB’s funding has not been zeroed out. The courts may find our complaint successful as the case moves forward. After the election, Economic Action pledged to stand up for consumers as we work to pass our progressive economic rights agenda and support clients through our direct service work. We did not hesitate and we are thrilled to be a small light of hope during these dark times. Our work is more important than ever. The same corporations that want the CFPB to cease to exist in D.C., hire well-heeled lobbyists in Annapolis to defeat legislation that helps low-income and working families across Maryland. Next year is our 25th anniversary. We are here, standing up for consumers and democracy. Can you stand with us and support our work? Would you give $25, $250, or $2500 to celebrate our 25th anniversary and to celebrate this important win? Thank you for all you do to support an economy that works for all. In Solidarity, Marceline | 
