Flash! Stephens County Dems in Georgia adopted the Democratic Creed. They become the 45th group to do so. Welcome and Congratulations!

Ten years ago, I would never have considered myself a hateful person.  I would have described myself as decent, kind, openminded, carefree, and happy.

The last 10 years have changed me into someone I almost don’t recognize.  Like many of us, I’m not afraid to say that I hate what this country has become.

I hate Donald Trump and everything in the MAGA movement.

I hate that there are family members I can’t and don’t talk to anymore.

I hate being fearful for my grandchildren’s future.

I hate that my rights as a woman are being stripped... AGAIN.

I hate being suspicious of everyone I meet.

After being faced with 3 men on a street corner wielding AR 15s during a peaceful protest on Women’s Right to Choose, I hate that I am scared to participate in protests any longer.

Who is this hate filled and foreign person in my body? Where did I go and what can I do?

Recently a glimmer of light has started to flicker. A way back to common decency and shared goals and values.  Democrats 101 has spoken to me, to my heart. An easy or quick fix?   No.  But a way forward? YES. A starting point.

Together we can start to open a new dialog in this country. Instead of focusing on our differences, we can start by pointing out our common ideals as stated in the Democratic Creed.  We can emphasize the need for a return to our core values of Freedom, Justice, and Opportunity for all.     

For me personally, this young and fast-growing movement is not only a journey forward, but also a welcome journey back in time. A journey forward with of sense of hope, not despair.  One with kindness, not hate. A journey back to a democratic voting system where we are not isolating each other in the process. A journey back to a time when we still felt like proud and loyal Americans regardless of the outcome of the vote. And finally, a selfish journey to find myself again.

In the words of Martin Luther King, “I have a dream”. Imagine this country resurrecting the shared values we have in common.  Imagine a new Democratic identity ultimately morphing into a permanent American identity.

But movements don’t gain momentum by themselves. You are a powerful source to embrace and share in this important grassroots movement. If you are angry and ready for change, join me… join us. Help spread the word.

Just imagine a world of civility and kindness. Help make that flicker of light burn brighter for all.

A Just Society... As Long As it Takes

Christie Tobey, Alpena, MI