Dear Sisters,

We’re five months into Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), and it’s been MESSY. After the longest government shutdown in our country’s history (43 days!), Congress is still struggling to get its act together. You’ve probably heard about “appropriations bills” and “continuing resolutions” in the news. Maybe you’re wondering what any of this has to do with your life.

The truth? Everything.

The federal budget process isn’t just about numbers on a page. It’s about who gets resources and who doesn’t. It’s about which communities are protected and which are abandoned. And right now, that process is being used as a weapon.

How the Budget Process Actually Works

Every year, Congress is supposed to pass 12 different appropriations bills—that’s the fancy term for laws that give government agencies money to operate. Think of it like your household budget, but on a massive scale. Each bill funds different parts of the government (like education, defense, or homeland security).

When Congress can’t agree on these bills by the October 1st deadline, they pass what’s called a Continuing Resolution (CR)—basically a temporary agreement to keep the lights on while they keep arguing. That’s where we are now. Again.

Here’s the catch: In the House of Representatives, these bills only need a simple majority (half plus one) to pass. But in the Senate, you need 60 votes just to END the debate and move to a final vote. This is called ending a filibuster, and it means even popular bills can get blocked if one party decides to dig in.

Why This Matters for Women of Color

Both Democrats and Republicans are playing political chess with this process—and our communities are caught in the middle. Democrats worry about being blamed for shutdowns or for being “weak” when the administration violates the Constitution. Republicans worry about losing power if they don’t fall in line with the president’s demands.

But here’s what SHOULD matter most: How is our tax money being spent?

Right now, Congress is debating how much funding ICE and Homeland Security should get. Recent events, including the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, have sparked national outrage about ICE’s conduct and abuses. Under Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s leadership, ICE has repeatedly violated procedures and constitutional rights.

This is where the budget becomes a tool for justice. When we control the money, we control the behavior. That’s why Democrats are pushing to limit ICE funding to just $85 million—the amount already approved in a previous bill. No additional money until they follow the law and respect people’s rights.

What You Can Do Right Now

The budget process gives US power—if we use it. Here’s how:

---

---

The power is in our hands. The budget is our leverage. And we CAN uphold the law AND treat people humanely.

We don’t have to choose between safety and dignity. We can demand both.

In solidarity,
Taylor, WE CAN Policy Associate