DNC Viewing Party Memories

Written by: Maureen Stabile on Sep 1, 2008 4:59 PM EDT

On Thursday, August 28, my family and I joined a group of HanDI members and friends for an informal gathering at a private home in Streamwood to watch the final evening of the 2008 Democratic National Convention. This was the first HanDI-related event in the last couple of years for which I played no role in the planning or execution, having resigned the Steering Committee following the birth of my second child in June. OK, I will allow myself to brag just a bit -- I proposed the idea of having a DNC viewing party back in January, when the Steering Committee was planning the year’s activities. Other than that, however, all I had to do was show up and have fun! The host and her "helpers" were terrifically imaginative. Upon arrival, every partygoer made a donation and got a red, white or blue necklace and some Obama swag. The national colors were displayed everywhere -- signs in the yard, bunting, napkins, toothpicks, pinwheel toys, and even a cake with the Obama-Biden logo on the icing! In the house, two televisions were tuned to C-SPAN. Partygoers intent on hearing the speeches huddled around one set in the dining room, while those more inclined to talk to each other gathered in the den.

I will refrain from lengthy commentary on the content of the convention, other than to note that the cynic in me couldn't help but notice what was not included  in the biographical video preceding Obama's speech: his father's country of origin (although Obama did mention his dad's Kenyan nationality in the speech) and the years Obama spent growing up in Indonesia with his stepfather. In other words, they glossed over the stuff that makes Obama seem too "foreign." (Sigh) Also, I was impressed by Al Gore's note in his earlier speech that Abraham Lincoln was elected President when his only prior experience in political office consisted of 8 years in the Illinois legislature, plus a term in Congress -- just like Obama! I think Gore has found his true calling in academia and activism, but maybe there will be a place for him in the Obama administration. Gore for EPA Chairman!

My fellow partygoers gave a favorable reception to Obama's words in the closing speech -- as when David A. responded to a critique of McCain: "Hit 'em right between the eyes!" In her remarks to the assembled guests, HanDI Chairman Trudy Z. spoke with emotion about how Obama's address coincided with the 45th anniversary of MLK's speech during the march on Washington. She encouraged all of us to volunteer for local candidates during this election season -- including judicial candidate and HanDI member Ann Brady, also in attendance. State Senator Mike Noland chimed in that he is organizing local volunteers to go up to Wisconsin (a swing state) every weekend and campaign for Obama; he encouraged those interested to contact his office.

Everyone seemed impressed by the momentous nature of the occasion. More than one person commented that the children present were witnessing history. May they grow up in a world that is better thanks to President Obama and the citizens who elected him.

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Location: IL