January 27, 2005
Celebrating endless potential
Last week a group of energetic South Haven Area Democrats met for a celebration potluck at the Warren Center on Inauguration Eve. Yes, that's right... the Democrats were celebrating! Although an administration with policies that most us find reprehensible was being sworn in for another 4 years, we were celebrating a local presidential victory (2 South Haven precincts, both South Haven township precincts, Bangor City and Covert among other areas).
We were also celebrating new found friendships and the ability to work toward a single goal in spite of moments when we drove each other nuts. We were celebrating a commitment to continue our work for working people, the environment, children and other vulnerable populations.
We heard about opportunities to work in the township, to demand thoughtful, planned growth in the City, to work in the county to create a viable healthy Democratic presence on County Boards and County wide offices. We commited ourselves to creating a stronger West Michigan voice in the Michigan Democratic Party. We are commited to reelecting Debbie Stabenow and Jennifer Granholm in two years. We will continue to follow Leroy Wolin's lead in opposing the appointment of an US Attorney General who finds the anti-torture provisions of the Geneva Convention "quaint".
Consider this an invitation to join us. Many of us are political novices and consider ourselves more Progressive than centrist Democrats. Some of us were moderate Republicans who felt that the party abandoned us rather than vice versa. Some are life long Democrats with strong union ties. It really doesn't matter - if our issues are your issues - join us. If you are willing to work hard, to clearly express your views, to listen as vigorously as you speak, to develop a sense of when to compromise and when to stick to principal we need you, more importantly, your community needs you. It is time to challenge special interests with special access to power. It is time to speak with one voice. Come join - us. Coming to a meeting is the first step - but be ready to write, to speak, to protest, to give and to grow.
Posted by Julie at January 27, 2005 01:40 PM