Turning Concern into Community: The Birth of Knowledge & Action ROC

By Connor O’Brien

In June 2024, following a large Zoom call discussing Project 2025, vast numbers of people were looking to do something to get the word out about Heritage Foundation plans for a possible second Trump Administration. 

In July, when Kamala Harris announced her run for President, the "Rochester for Harris" group was formed to support her campaign, quickly amassing more than 7,000 members in a private Facebook group. A steering committee was formed, and the organization worked tirelessly to encourage voters to cast their ballot for Harris.

Of course, we all know the outcome. Following the election, many of the steering committee members Rochester for Harris were exhausted, but the group wanted to continue in some fashion, to stand up for democracy in the face of another Trump administration.

And so, Knowledge & Action ROC (KAR) was born. A new steering committee was formed, and the team worked diligently, conducting a survey of membership to determine our focus as we moved forward.

Over the last several months, we created an Education sub-committee, developed a website, and created our newsletter structure. We have had several successes—sharing information with our membership, working with other local groups, hosting the Stand Up for Science Rally, and co-sponsoring the Hands Off Rally.

Now we continue to partner with other local groups, share important action dates, provide resources for learning and discussion, and provide an avenue for community building and support. There is still a lot to do, and KAR can use YOUR help!

We are so glad you're here, and we hope you will visit our website, stay engaged on our social channels, and stay tuned for what's next!

Connor O'Brien is the chairperson of the KAR Steering Committee.