I engaged in some cultural anthropology last weekend... in my own country! The observed culture being that of a campaign and Democratic party event. A generous friend, invited me to accompany her to a rally for a candidate for Virginia State Governor in 2009,
Terry McAuliffe, and also to the state fundraiser for the Democratic party, the
Jefferson Jackson Dinner. I have never been involved in party politics or a campaign before, and I felt very fortunate to be able to step in the back door and take part in such an intriguing event.
As a guest, I felt a little bit like a poser. Yes, I read the papers. Yes, I care dearly about events in my nation and the world. Yes, I occasionally write a letter to my Congressional Representatives and State Senators. Yes, I have signed petitions. Yes, I am pretty passionate about certain areas of policy such as education, health care, immigration, and foreign policy. Nonetheless, I have not gotten involved in the sense of supporting a party exclusively or making cold calls for a particular candidate.
As I witnessed the conviction of those around me, took part in a rally of supporters for the gubernatorial candidate, listened to a number of impassioned speeches about Virginia's future, and interacted with other attendees, I couldn't help but feel as if this wasn't the place I was called to serve (and a little bit guilty for this very feeling). I was impressed by the die-hard commitments volunteers and staff make to candidates, but I was also taken aback by the whole polished schmooziness of the event. The clean cut faces and suits around me seemed a far cry from the scruffy faces of Peace Corps Volunteers or those working a food line or even those teaching ESL. I recognize that we
do need people that care about making change by supporting good men and women for political posts and gathering grassroots energy for changing state and national policy. I am just not sure where exactly I might fit into this picture.
Perhaps part of what keeps me from diving in is a nagging sense of duty and, at the same time, a lack of identity. After over ten years of moving from one place to another, in and out of the country, I have a hard time understanding Virginia's issues and knowing that they affect me. In many ways, I still consider myself more a global citizen (and a bit of a vagabond or wanderer). I probably just need some more time to settle in for this feeling to alter.
As result of the weekend rally and events, I am expected to volunteer in some capacity. Terry seems like a great candidate, and he gave a very exciting speech on Saturday night, but I am still surveying the scene. I guess that is why we have several more months before the primary. You might find me registering voters (this is a civic duty I can put my heart into) but I am not sure I'll be the voice on the other end of the phone bank any time soon. I am just not ready...
Some highlights of the weekend:
- Jazzy political rally with an awesome (!) percussion band and very energetic crowd folks
- Bill Clinton's address to the dinner -- he's such an articulate and engaging speaker
- Talks with staffers and volunteers for Terry and seeing their enthusiasm and belief in his leadership
- Hanging out with a good friend and learning about her in a new light as she retold her many political experiences and enterprises
- Lovely weather -- it was 70F -- made the entire weekend a proper getaway.
I feel really grateful for the opportunity to take part and to learn how some parts of our political system work. Thank you to Erin and Terry!
