When Christine invited some of us to write our thoughts for her to take to Sen Obama, I got a chance to think and reflect -- and here's what came: I am a white Jewish woman who grew up in a black inner city neighborhood in DC because my activist parents believed in doing urban renewal by living it. Although my parents taught their children a deep commitment to activism, I was never inspired to work for a candidate until your campaign. (I had the pleasure of briefly meeting Michelle on Monday and spoke to her about our shared joy in taking our children to experience "Sweet Honey in the Rock" in concert a few weeks ago. I went to their concerts as a kid in DC.) You met my father a few weeks ago when he gave you a copy of his "Freedom Seder" at your meeting with Jewish leaders in Philadelphia. My mother lives here in Evanston and volunteered for your Senate campaign as early as the primary battle. And it was way back then, in the fall of 2003, that you inspired me to hope that you would one day make a run for the White House. During this campaign, I have called, blogged, e-mailed, and gone to Milwaukee for GOTV on primary day. I have met incredible people who volunteer for your campaign. My children proudly call me an "Obama Mama" and I wear your pin (in Hebrew) every day. (My husband also sports an Obama yarmulkah - at Obamukah -- at times.) My 4 year old son asks to "hear an Obama speech" every day and my 8 year old daughter has now proudly pressed a button for you in several election booths ... I tell you all of this because I want you to know how you've brought those of us who've been so cynical back into the process. I've never missed an election, but I haven't ever wanted to work for someone's campaign in my adult life. Thank you for lighting the fire under my dormant hope and optimism. Given my upbringing, I am particularly proud to know that I am part of lifting up the 1st black American to our highest office. My parents taught me from my earliest days that differences in color and creed should bring us together to learn from each other & I am proud that you will bring that message to the country and the world. Yes we can!!
