The Tax March is scheduled for April 15, and here’s why I plan to participate.
A while back, at the age of 28, I found myself embroiled in a small claims court case against the Oregon Department of Revenue. They mistakenly believed I owed them money from a time when I was actually living in California and paying taxes there. Representing myself, I used my Los Angeles apartment lease and library card as evidence of my residency. Ultimately, the department acknowledged my status as a part-year resident and adjusted my tax liability. I was relieved to learn that I didn’t owe Oregon the $527 they initially claimed, a considerable sum given my job at a stationery store on Melrose Avenue.
In today’s world, many people invest in “online reputation management” services to bury any trace of personal litigation, even when the issues are minor or resolved favorably. However, I’ve never attempted to hide my experience simply because, regarding my taxes, I have nothing to conceal.
If only the same could be said for the current president of the United States.
Joining the Nationwide Initiative
On April 15, I will join the Tax March in my city, part of a nationwide initiative with over 150 protests demanding that President Trump release his tax returns. My reasons for marching stem from both local and national concerns.
President Trump is the first major-party nominee in nearly 40 years to refuse to publish his tax returns. During his campaign, he repeatedly claimed he couldn’t release them because he was under IRS audit. Notably, Warren Buffett, the renowned investor, released his own tax returns while under audit, demonstrating that such an excuse might not hold water.
Last month, investigative journalist David Cay Johnston obtained Trump’s 2005 tax return and revealed that Trump drastically reduced his tax obligation thanks to a $103 million write-off. It’s possible that the remaining returns could reveal a persistently low tax rate or even more dubious connections, such as alleged ties to Russia, which Trump has consistently denied. Until we see those documents, the truth remains elusive, and the American public deserves transparency.
Local Activism and Community Engagement
Beyond the national implications, I’m participating in the local Tax March to continue the momentum created by the Women’s March. The three individuals organizing the Tax March in my area—Jake, Sarah, and Tom—are newcomers to activism. They decided to take action after feeling stunned by Trump’s election. Joining forces with other activists across the country, from major cities to small towns, these are our friends and neighbors who are dedicating their limited free time to advocate for transparency.
The collective desire for the president’s tax returns transcends geographical boundaries. As a member of the Palauan-American community, I’m among the 84% of people of color who believe he should make his returns public. This sentiment is echoed by 94% of Democrats and 36% of Republicans.
Join the Movement
If you also believe that it’s crucial for the president to disclose his tax returns, you’re already part of this movement. We’ll be marching together on April 15, and I invite you to join us. To find a Tax March in your area, visit www.taxmarch.org.
In addition, if you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, check out this informative article on artificial insemination as well as resources like this blog post that can help you navigate your journey. You might also find this authority on the topic useful as you explore your options.
Conclusion
In summary, the Tax March on April 15 is not just about demanding the president release his tax returns; it’s about uniting as a community to advocate for transparency and accountability in our government.