This is not much of a diary. I know. But I woke up this morning (in France) to learn Madelyn Dunham had passed away.
This made me really sad, as I am sure we are all here. And of course, in this sadness lies mixed feelings and emotions.
Sad because I was hoping she would see her grandson elected and the achievement of all the sacrifices she had made for him.
Sad, because I used to be a grandson too. Because I remember an early phone call too. Because I had some of the most loving grandparents.
Eli Sanders posted this a few hours ago, wondering if Madelyn Dunham's vote would be counted.
It happens that it will (as it was confirmed by Kevin Cronin, chief election officer for the state of Hawaii:
Ms. Dunham’s absentee mail ballot was received and reviewed under the Hawaii standards for processing absentee mail ballots... She was alive at that time. Her ballot will be opened tomorrow, and it will be counted in the same way that all absentee voters would be treated under our law.
Of course, this is not much of a consolation. I know. But instead of a consolation, I ask for a celebration.
Now it's time to make things change. To make things signigicant.
Get Out the Vote.
Stay in the Fucking Line.
Drive people to the poll stations.
Send emails and make phone calls to family and friends to remind them to vote.
Report vote fraud.
Bring folding chairs.
Bring food and water
Bring umbrellas.
Make your voice heard.
Make your vote count.
In memory of Barack Obama's grand mother, mother, father but and most importantly for America and for the World.
America, we are watching you. You have no idea how this election is important here in France and in Europe and probably anywhere else. We can't stand this 8 year nightmare any more. Make change happen! Please! NOW!