Progressive Activism Events, January 2009 - In D.C. and Beyond
Come each January, progressive activism begins the year with renewed liberal vigor and a busy schedule crowded with events, conferences, state Democratic party elections, and training for new activists.
This year in Washington D.C., with the media spotlight on the historic inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, progressive organizations are planning more than 50 major events to bring dramatic attention to urgent issues.
Among subjects being highlighted by progressive activists in D.C. during January 2009 are Guantanamo, the continuing Iraq War, torture, war profiteering, health care, Rick Warren's inaugural involvement, and immigration reform. The calendar also includes three inaugural balls for progressives and the netroots community.
For a complete list and links to further details, see Progressive Activism Calendar for D.C. - January 2009.
As for my chosen venue of new-year activist involvement, I am running for reelection to a second two-year term as a Delegate to the California Democratic Party State Central Committee. The election is this Sunday, January 11.
I'm working on my speech, recruiting family to distribute hand-outs, and have been endorsed as part of the progressive slate supported by the Progressive Caucus of the California Democratic Party, Progressive Democrats of America and SoCal Grassroots. (If you're eligible to vote in CA Assembly District #72, I would appreciate your support!)
Just two years ago, the California Democratic Party had a tough time finding people to fill these positions. In contrast in 2009, liberal activist reponse in California has been "overwhelming," thanks to the energizing presidential primaries and election, and after Barack Obama's landslide victory.
Which is all to say... it's time for you, too, to get involved! Just because the '08 election is done, doesn't mean our progressive grassroots work is done. On the contrary, our work to repair post-Bush/Cheney America has just begun. And it will take ALL of us!
If you plan to be in Washington D.C. for the January 20, 2009 inauguration, or at anytime in January, plan to participate in some of the exciting events at Progressive Activism Calendar for D.C. - January 2009
You can find events closer to home by contacting your local Democratic Party office, or by visting the websites of the organizations linked in my D.C. article.
And if your activism is primarily online, start at Change.org, an impressive, wildly popular site that aims at "informing and empowering movements for social change around the most important issues of our time."
Happy New Year! Now let's each get busy doing our part to save this great country.
(Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images)
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