Dear Friends:
Before taking a breather, I wanted to forward some post election thoughts as well as thank the many of you who not only voted, but worked in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania to make Senator Obama’s victory possible. Victories don’t just happen, even with a great candidate. It takes hard working supporters. It is your victory too! Paul
An Election, Activism and a New Vision
“Obama's election marks a remarkable moment in our country's history--a milestone in America's scarred racial landscape and a victory for the forces of decency, diversity and tolerance. As … Roger Wilkins reminded us on the eve of the election, Obama's win "doesn't turn a switch that eradicates our whole national history and culture." But "win or lose, Obama has already made this a better country, made your children's future better." This is from a blog written last night by Nation magazine editor Katrina Vanden Heuval.A lot of factors fell into place to bring about this victory including the mobilization of huge numbers of volunteers from all walks of life who were inspired by President-Elect Obama’s vision for our future. But it also shouldn’t be forgotten that the efforts of people who’ve fought for equality and against racism over the last fifty plus years helped bring about yesterday’s historic election. This ‘sea change’ didn’t just happen. The waves of struggle that took place throughout the years in courtrooms, legislatures, local communities, and, yes, streets and lunch counters paved the way.
Understanding the past and being hopeful for the future is decidedly warranted. It is indeed a time for celebration.
At the same time, Ms. Vanden Heuval also offers a challenge and a warning that I think is apropos: “Grassroots engagement and record-shattering turnout contributed mightily to Obama's decisive victory. Moving forward, this small-d democratic movement --broad-based and energized--will be critical in overcoming the timid incrementalists, the forces of money and establishment power, that are obstacles to meaningful change. And it will be needed to forge the fate and fortune of a bold progressive agenda.”
And finally, she adds, “After years of playing defense, it is time to unshackle our imaginations, build coalitions and craft creative strategies that will move, persuade and push President Obama and a new Congress to seize the mandate they have been offered. We are not naive. We know there are formidable obstacles ahead. Without organizing and grassroots pressure, the corporate power over both parties will continue to suffocate possibilities. And despite the metastasizing financial crisis, the conservative assault on government still cripples our sense of what is fully possible”
It’s now time for that well-deserved breather. Next up after that: great anticipation and more organizing.
The link below takes you to the article quoted above which was written late last night by Nation magazine editor Katrina Vanden Heuval. Check it out. http://www.thenation.com/blogs/edcut/380292.
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