Learning about having power

Let me take a break from the convention blogging, and now the post convention meta-discussion about what really happened to talk about DemocracyFest.

DemocracyFest, originally called DeanFest, was a gathering of Dean supporters in Pittsfield, Mass. that was organized by Jessica Falker.

Jessica is a wonderful example of the empowerment that we so badly need in the electoral process. She had never organized an event like this before. She probably made her share of mistakes along the way, but she learned a lot from the experience. With her permission, I am posting her recounting of the experience.

I've got a lot to say about planning Deanfest and I'm not going to get into it all right now. I learned many things about myself, DFA, and the grassroots.

As you all know, I had never planned anything like this before. I dealt with a lot of issues with DFA. I had "professional" advise that I thought I should follow. I had many grassroots people commit to organizing aspects of the event and then disapear. I had people withhold information, pressure from both sides about the name, 2 towns reject us, people tell me I shouldn't do it because a low turnout would reflect badly on Dean, and financial problems the whole time.

But what I learned is that I do have the power. I may not have the power to plan a perfect event with no experience. But I do have the power to do something if I never give up, and I do have the power to give people hope. This lesson is going to stay with me forever.

What I learned about the grassroots is that they are still here, and I hope they never fade away. People made so many sacrifices to come to Deanfest, and I know that many of them took home an experience that they will never forget either.

I don't know what will happen after November. Will most of go back to our "normal" lives for 3 years? I don't know. It takes a lot of courage, patience, and determination to keep going. I know that there are people here that have what it takes. The question is if you will do it.

No idea is too difficult or too stupid, if it comes from the heart and you beleive you can do it. There's no reason to wait for approval or support. If you do, you may be waiting a very long time.

You have the power. Use it.

I think that pretty much says it all when it comes to empowerment and I hope Jessica will be a role model for many of you.

As a final note, DemocracyFest has a few leftover debts from the event, so if you can help out, please go to My Vote is My Voice and help retire the debt and start raising money for next year's DemocracyFest.

Posted by Aldon Hynes at July 31, 2004 8:56 AM | TrackBack