This weekend, I decided to visit area campaign offices with an offer to help. What I saw there, both energized and embarrassed me … there were hardly any black folks in the house. Do we not yet realize what is at stake here?
Senator Obama’s ability to unify diverse groups was well reflected. I saw men, women of all ages and many nationalities, BUT, I didn’t see US. I was caught up in the enthusiasm and dedication of these volunteers; however, I just couldn’t help wondering … Where are we?
Before I start lecturing … let me confess … this was actually my first visit to an Obama campaign office. For that, I am ashamed.
Truth is … typically, I’d rather donate money than time. Though, in an election as important as this one, I’ve learned that money is not all that’s needed. We need folks on the street, going door-to-door; driving to the polls; explaining the voting process, etc.
My mother has been going door-to-door for months; I chastised her about the dangers of walking up to strange houses. She reminded me of the dangers of losing this election. She’s right (as usual).
Fact is, we cannot singularly rely on folks outside of our community to get “Ray-Ray -n- em” on board to vote. We have special insider knowledge on what it takes to motivate black folk ’round the way’ … and, unless it’s a party … ya know it ain’t a flyer!
So, let’s get our inside connection movin’ … to put Senator Obama in the White House.
All of this is not to say that black people are sitting at home praying (although, we need that, too) … many of us are very engaged in this election process. To those who are, I say thanks for doing the right thing!
I have a few friends who volunteer faithfully (and, more, unfaithfully) … most, just write a check. Which ain’t bad … it just ain’t enough!
It is not enough to sit back and let other people do the ground work for our dream. I have a dream, a wish, a desire; that THIS TIME, my people will make the difference.
FANTASY or REALITY? You decide?
My decision … creating a reality to support my fantasy … On November 4, 2008, I plan on celebrating the election of the first BLACK President of the United States. ( I bet y’all be there for that)
To make it happen, I am now committed to go full tilt on the street, to get the vote out in this next week.
Better late than never, I hope.
You Got Next!
KiM … brown
KiM’s suggested listening music for this message:
Fantasy -Earth, Wind & Fire
Please go to the Obama Website and sign up to help. Someone will contact you, they will respond real fast. Or just stop by any Campaign Office, today.
Help by voting early, then share your achievement with others. I just sent a man to vote early while I was typing this reply.
It is sad but true that we are not helping in the numbers that we should. It has gotten better over the last few weeks. I have been in some neighborhoods where I know that just being able to articulate Barack’s message clearly has made a difference. Voters do respond better to those they feel comfortable with. It has been a very heart-warming experience to be on the groundfloor of history. The conversations and interactions on the campaign trail have made me proud again of our communities. I will never fear my own people so being afraid to go door to door is not an option. We must make this happen, don’t talk about be about it. Your right to vote was fought for and those that came before DIED for it. Make them proud and step up and do your part in this historic election. You will feel it in your soul. OBAMA! OBAMA! OBAMA!