Ok, so I finally got it tonight why the birthers and deathers and other screaming fringers have been able to out-hustle us, the majority of Americans who helped to elect the first African American President last year with a clear mandate to bring about comprehensive health care, energy reform and a whole host of other relief from 8 years of crazy. (Remember? We've had our cup of nutty on the rocks already). After a long year of campaigning tirelessly and spending our last dime on all the great grassroots groups making this historic election possible, we needed a little rest.
But the tide is turning once again. Tonight, on U.N. Plaza in San Francisco, the crowd was fired up and ready to go! The energy was sizzling, not only because it was a hot summer night, but because a crowd of at least a couple thousand people wanted a public option, and they want it NOW! In fact, most of them wanted universal health care, but they aren't ready to settle for less than the public American option. Here are some pics to get the vocal chords juiced up. We've had our rest, it's time to take care of business.
I admit it, I was one of those a bit exhausted from last year's campaign. But then I ran into these guys tonight and things started to shift...
The people were fired up and ready to go, like it was 2008...
They were passionate...
They were creative...
and they want it now!
So tell me, who's going to say no to her?
And who is going to scream louder than her???
People are hurting and dying because of greedy insurance companies, and we're not going to get pushed aside by a few ignorant thugs.
Did you get that, Senator Feinstein and colleagues? No? Ok, here it is again:
You hear that, Blue Dogs?
And here's some warm greetings to the ex-governor of Alaska:
Gosh, I'm feeling really energized all of a sudden, watching this guy I might just send some money to Fire Dog Lake...
This woman told me about her problems in getting health care for her SMALL BUSINESS employees. Hear that, Mr. Republican?
She also talked about how much work she put into the Obama campaign last year and how exhausted she was afterward. A few others said the same thing, and it dawned on me that I've been feeling the same way. Just needing to take care of LIFE, you know? But if we don't take care of this, then we won't have a life. So tonight I and many others I met are back in the fray. We're the majority and we're tired of being kicked around.
It's so sad how many children in this country have had to endure this travesty. But they're determined to get what is their right: Health insurance, no ifs, ands or buts...
C'mon, say it ain't so, Mr. Congressman...
We're here, and we're beautiful!
And we've got the numbers to boot
Let's get it done for him:
Yup, we know what he would do...
Let's get this train rolling everybody. The number to call next week is 1-877-264-4226. Keep following nyceve's and slinkerwink's diaries to stay updated on the latest action plans.
Together we can!
peace & love & health care for all!
PS: Now I just hope that we can generate this much energy for the upcoming climate change legislation, something I care about deeply. Let's remember when we get tired and start fighting with each other that we can indeed do it, if we channel our energy.
Update: From Femlaw in the comments: props to HCAN, OFA,
and the many, many other organizations who came together to make this event successful. My favorite part was the huge group of medical professionals there in scrubs and white coats to show their support for comprehensive reform. My other favorite part was how much of the work was done by volunteer organizers, including some of our fabulous OFA Bay Area volunteer organizers.
Indeed, thanks to everyone who is working so tirelessly behind the scenes!