Barack Obama is speaking tomorrow, Monday, at the VFW convention at the Arizona Center. This is located in central Phoenix on Van Buren between 3rd and 5th streets (streets open to pedestrians only).
The VFW National Convention is not open to the public.
What's a supporter to do?
I got an email from the Arizona Democratic Party:
A Message from Organizing for America:
On Monday, President Obama will be coming to speak in Phoenix. Special interests are attacking the President and his principles for health insurance reform, and we need to show that the American people are standing up for change.
So the Arizona Democratic Party is joining Organizing for America (OFA) by inviting supporters like you to gather nearby to publicly show our support. Below is the event information, courtesy of OFA:
What: Show of support for President Obama and health insurance reform
Where: Northeast corner of Washington and Central avenues, Phoenix
When: 7 a.m. Monday, Aug. 17
For More information contact: ofaarizona@dnc.org
Last fall, when Swiftboaters and special interests attacked President Obama, folks like you came to his defense. We knocked on doors, talked to neighbors, and made our voices heard.
Now, we need to do it again. This time, he's under attack by Washington insiders, insurance companies, and well-financed special interests who don't go a day without distorting the facts and stirring up fear. We need to show that we're sick and tired of it, and that we're ready for real change this year.
Join us on Monday to stand up for President Obama and publicly show your support for the big changes that the President is fighting for and that this country needs.
Thanks,
Sara El-Amine
Arizona Field Director
Organizing for America
First, do I want to get up at 5 AM to attend this event? When is the president actually speaking or passing by? I can't find that information. But since the right wingers expect protestors I want to show my support for Healthcare Reform.
So, I googled some maps to plan the day around the light rail into the city. Supporters for Obama will be at Washington and Central, which is further away from the Convention Center than the protestors at Adams and Second Streets (Note: protest location per AFP blog)
So here is my dilemma: Since the local media will surely only cover the right wing protests, should I attend that event and carry signs for support of reform, or should I go to the support event and add to the numbers of supporters?
The second thing is: How long will I stand in the desert heat to make a point about healthcare before I fall over and need an ambulance that I can't afford?