Your SLO County delegates returned from the annual California Democratic Party convention in Anaheim full of enthusiasm and energy. Senator Elizabeth Warren, in her rousing keynote speech, said: “We don’t win what we don’t fight for.” We get the message and we’re ready to fight.
We met in caucuses, including Labor, Education, Women and many others and heard from elected leaders as well as the Party volunteers who work long hours for the causes they believe in. We feel fortunate to have a Governor and a State legislature that is ahead of the curve on so many issue–climate change, the rights of workers, education and health. However, we resolve not to be complacent about where we are–we have lots to do as we roll into 2016–a huge year for important elections.
Locally, we need to start stepping it up and support the local officials whom we helped elect. We’ve started a civil engagement project, which will make sure that people are present at government meetings locally–the Board of Supervisors, City Councils, Air Pollution Control District and CSDs. Citizen participation is a good thing–but not when it involves personal attacks and a coordinated attack against certain targeted officials. When one loud chorus dominates the meeting, others become frustrated and intimidated with the process and stay at home. It’s easy to turn the noise off and go do something else, but that is not what is required of us as citizens.
Sen. Warren also said, “When we stand together, when we make it clear what we believe in, America is ready to stand with us.” We hope that local Democrats will stand with us for the things we believe in. Talk to your friends, families and neighbors about what’s going on in the world and in our community, and then volunteer with us. There are many places you are needed, and we welcome you for whatever amount of time you can give.