The opening gavel has yet to sound in the Convention Hall, but just a few blocks away constituent caucus meetings have been taking place all morning long at the Denver Convention Center. These meetings provide opportunities for groups to meet and network, to acknowledge their place in the party and to coordinate and plan the important roles they'll play over the next two months in helping organize and educate their communities about Barack Obama.
Today's events included meetings of the Black Caucus, the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Caucus, the Ethnic Coordinated Caucus, the First Americans Caucus, the Hispanic Caucus, the LGBT Caucus, the Rural Caucus and the Seniors Caucus.At the First Americans caucus, leaders from various tribes and communities across the country introduced themselves and spoke about the importance of Native peoples getting involved in the political process. This year, there were 45% more First American delegates than there were in 2004.
Democratic National Committee Chairman and Vermont Governor Howard Dean made appearances at a number of the caucuses. At the Hispanic caucus he came with a message: "Register, register, register." He spoke at length about the importance of voter registration and the impact that organization and field work can have on down ballot races, as well as early vote programs that are available in some states. He asked supporters in attendance to commit to knocking 40 doors each four times between now in November in order to ensure that members of their community are registered to vote, know where Barack stands on the issues that are important to them, and are able to make it to the polls.
Hilary Clinton was on hand for the Hispanic caucus as well, where she spoke directly about what is at stake in this election:
Every one of us could stand up and recite all the reasons why we must elect Barack. The Supreme Court is at stake; our educational system needs the right kind of change. We've got to become energy independent; we have to create millions of new green collar jobs. We've got so much work to do around the world.
The Black Caucus was held in a large auditorium, in front of an enthusiastic crowd. There was also a moment of silence in remembrance of Ohio Representative Stephanie Tubbs Jones. A poem by Maya Angelou, "Phenomenal Woman," was read in her memory.Former Mayor Wellington Webb cited the progress that the African American community has made within society and within the Democratic party, while acknowledging the challenges that still remain ahead in this election. He reminded the crowd that here in Denver, we were all "one mile closer to heaven."
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