Thank you to @Rae for starting this thread, which is basically about how non-tech saavy and non-GNU/Linux users, who need a working device now, can find a relatively privacy-focused interim smartphone solution while waiting for the Librem 5 to eventually become both orderable from stock and fully functional upon delivery, maybe by the end of 2021 or maybe not.
Users gave many great suggestions. I took @Gavaudan’s suggestion to flash Calyx OS onto an unlocked Google Pixel.
To minimize e-waste and expense, I purchased a refurbished 2019 Pixel 3a for $146 from Back Market. With a little challenge and some great coaching from @Gavaudan, I successfully flashed Calyx OS and de-Googled my first smartphone.
I’ve added a SIM from Black Wireless, an AT&T MVNO offering some of the least expensive and most flexible monthly service plans on the market, which I expect to functionally transfer to an L5 running the BM818-A1 modem at some point.