On Democracy

Years ago, when my son was in high school, I recruited him, (dragged him) door-knocking with me on a political campaign.

It was for a young candidate who was to become our new US representative. (Lauren Underwood, the youngest black member of Congress).

He rolled his eyes, as all teens do, but I brought him to the campaign headquarters, got our instructions and off we went. We were assigned to the exurbs. If you’re not familiar, the houses are not on top of one another, though still in neighborhoods. Just on the edge of farmland. And they are whiter than white.

I had previously dragged my son to a meet and greet with the candidate, and I introduced him. So he had a short conversation with her. Like all teens, he was judgemental, but actually came away with a favorable impression. And I think he also appreciated that she was young. Not just another old lying politician.

Our experience knocking on doors was one I know he’ll never forget. Striking up intelligent conversations with strangers. With people who live in your area, but you really don’t know.

And of course, we had some bizarre interactions with people who have been poisoned by Fox “News”. At every house, I introduced him as my son, and said I was trying to teach him about democracy. It was a lovely way to get people to open up.

At the end of the day, he sat back in the car and said, “Wow.”

We talked about the old lady who yelled that Hillary Clinton was a devil worshipper. We talked about the many others who were skeptical about opening the door, but soon were telling us their concerns. We talked about how funny people can be…and how scary and how warm and inviting…how gracious and how….not-so-gracious.

I don’t think he will ever forget the experience.

And today, he called me and told me he’s been checking in with all his friends to make sure they know how to vote.

Folks, democracy is something we DO. Not just something we are lucky to have. If you live in a swing state, please get your kids involved. Or maybe this time, they will get YOU involved.

But however you participate, don’t sit on the sidelines.

You have to play to win. And losing our democracy to a tyrant is not an option.

P.S. Lauren Underwood won that election. Because so many people in the area went door to door, and believed in her. She’s still in Congress.