‘Stop the Billionaire Giveaway’ tour brings Medicaid rally to Bethlehem

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — A green campaign bus rolled into Payrow Plaza on Monday to rally Bethlehem residents behind the goal of protecting Medicaid as part of Fair Share America and Unrig Our Economy’s coast-to-coast Stop the Billionaire Giveaway tour.

The event brought together nonprofit organizers, community leaders, and residents who say federal budget proposals could slash health care and food assistance programs in favor of tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy and corporations.

This stop marked one of six in Pennsylvania. Organizers said the tour is focused on engaging key communities across the state.

“Bethlehem is really important for just all the major cities in Pennsylvania. We’re trying to hit all of them,” said Autumn Gravier, a policy fellow with Planned Parenthood who helped coordinate the local stop.

The event featured a community discussion and an opportunity for attendees to sign the campaign bus. It was held in partnership with nonprofits including Pennsylvanians Together, Action Together NEPA, Indivisible Lehigh Valley Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley for All, Planned Parenthood PA, SEIU Healthcare PA, MomsRising, and For Our Future.

Gravier and other speakers emphasized the importance of personal storytelling.

“It’s just really important for everyone to share their personal stories,” Gravier said. “That’s what really hits home the most and helps make the change.”

Speakers also highlighted concerns about the future of federal assistance programs. Bucks County Commissioner Bob Harvie noted that many Pennsylvania residents rely on Medicaid, and tens of thousands on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

“If the funding from the federal government gets cut as it goes to the state and then comes to us, we do not have the money to carry out the programs to the level they’re supposed to be — and we all know the level should be higher,” Harvie said in a news release.

Gravier encouraged residents to take civic action.

“Get out, share your stories,” she said. “Talk to your reps.”

The event was part of a broader initiative that includes storytelling, roundtable discussions, pledge-card campaigns, and canvassing efforts to mobilize community members.

The bus made its next stop in Scranton on Monday afternoon and is scheduled to continue to Harrisburg and Pittsburgh on Tuesday. The national tour will make additional stops through July 14.