Dear Voornaam, This year, right after extremist Supreme Court justices ended reproductive freedom and set women’s rights back 50 years, and amidst new, shocking Jan. 6 Committee testimony that confirms Trump’s support of the insurrection, our nation’s birthday seems less joyous and celebratory. But our country was founded in struggle, and I believe it’s important to take pride in that struggle and recognize that our work to create a more perfect union is an ongoing endeavor that is based on great aspirations and hope. Democrats have every right to take pride in our flag and our imperfect country. After all, much of the progress we’ve made in the last 246 years is thanks to Americans who truly believed in, worked for, and sacrificed mightily to achieve liberty and justice for ALL, just as we continue to do today. We will not allow Republicans to drag us further backward. In 2022, we are mobilized to elect Democrats, who are truly committed to equality and policies that will make this American life better. As Democrats, as Americans, we need to assertively march three steps forward, after being yanked two big steps back. Hope can come to us from many places, but the hope that sustains us through the toughest times is that which we generate ourselves. Working for a cause bonds us together with our allies and builds resilience in our communities and in ourselves. It’s patriotic. Knocking on doors, talking to our family and neighbors about the issues that move us and why we vote changes us and changes the world. Running for office or volunteering for a campaign or cause all build hope…and will change the world…one person at a time. That’s where progress comes from. Individual action is an act of true hope and the deepest patriotism as we continue to build and defend our democracy. I ask you, Voornaam, and all other Oregon Democrats to join with me to make it clear that the flag is ours too, that our hope for a better America will be realized by our continuing, united struggle together. Here at the DPO, we know how to win elections and make progress in Oregon. We must talk with our neighbors about the values we share, and push beyond labels and talking points. We know what works, and we need your help! You can join our groundbreaking Neighborhood Leader Program or sign up to volunteer - just click on our buttons below. You are part of this team, Voornaam, and we need you. As we celebrate our nation’s 246 birthday, let’s revitalize that gift through working for the hope that we build and share together: Democracy. KC Hanson, Chair
Democratic Party of Oregon | 