July 14, 2013

Barbara Lee Birthday Celebration and the Verdict

Barbara Lee and friends and supporters gathered over good food, good music and the warmth of partnership and passion for the excellent job the congresswoman does for California and for the nation. It's hard to separate the person from the job she does because the energy, vitality and relentless stand to better the conditions that limit the best our country has to offer is her domain.

She is specific in those efforts, and specific in her relationships with each of the people who were attending this private party. Many young people, some interns, some family friends joined Barbara on the dance floor and she kept right up with their moves on the floor, and made contact with each of the people in this informal celebration.

Stunningly, most of us heard about the Zimmerman not guilty verdict while at her party. For many, the feeling of loss and betrayal was present but before we could sink into the negative, or sense of helplessness or resentment the tragic end of the young life of a 16 year old Trayvon Martin. Before that effect could happen, the woman in front of us showed us first hand in the moment what it takes to be the congressional leader she is. 

What there is to do about the Trayvon Martin verdict, or the Supreme Court's decision to do away with the Voting Rights Act is what Barbara Lee does, every day. You take the blow, and turn to the actions that support the overall picture of what is needed, and how that need can be fulfilled by those representing the people in congress, and the people themselves. That's how it is for Barbara Lee. She is the one person in congress who did not agree to a war in Afghanistan as the stunned government and the nation experienced 9/11. She takes her own counsel and takes those stands that support those least represented and most in need, even if she stands alone.

As we watch the congress grind on without the ability to perform their job because of the obstruction of any forward direction, the fact is that Barbara Lee shows us the direction to take rather than fold into apathy. "It's the worst or times, it's the best of times.." she said in reference to her rough week in congress. The birthday celebration for Barbara could have turned from celebration to discouraged hearts turning away from the pain of the Zimmerman verdict, the sense of racism at the base of it all, and the sense of being ineffective and a passive observer to our country's malaise. But not in the company of Barbara.

Dancing with Willie Brown, hitting every note on the dance floor and moving forward towards what will come next, Barbara Lee will meet and direct the energy and policy that represents her commitment to all the people in the state of California and the nation. The beautiful room, great food and warm vibe of the party had us each leave revived and ready for that next move, strengthened in our own resolve.

To read this article in its original format, go here.