The first College Democrats meeting I attended was in January 2005 during my second semester at UNO. One of my best friends since high school Layne convinced me to give it a try. I felt more comfortable joining an extracurricular activity with one semester under my belt and I had just gone through a bad breakup. Lucky for me, College Democrats was a perfect fit. At first, I was nervous that I would have nothing to contribute. I expected the meeting to consist of a bunch of extreme liberals ranting about issues I would not understand. Boy, was I wrong! The group was very welcoming and gracious to see a new member. They mostly discussed upcoming events and possibilities for future activities. Afterwards, the group went to Clancy’s Restaurant for drinks and conversation. Before I knew it, I had a whole slough of new friends and my Monday nights were being spent with College Democrats. At the beginning of this semester, I was elected as the secretary.
I decided that I am a democrat through high school civics class and talking about political issues with friends. I am pro-choice, am for stem cell research, believe in the importance of saving the environment, am for helping the lower classes, want social equality, and do NOT want Bush to abolish Social Security. One of the greatest things about College Democrats is that members are not coerced into changing their opinions. We have members who are pro-life or against certain gay marriage rights. College Democrats accepts people from all different religions, races, sexual orientations, and backgrounds. That kind of diversity will not be found in College Republicans.
One of my favorite parts of being in College Democrats is having the opportunity to meet several local politicians. Personally, I have worked on campaigns for Jim Suttle and Anne Boyle. I have also met Mike Fahey, Ben Nelson, and many more. Usually we have the chance to have politicians speak to us and members decide from there if they want to support their candidacy. It was a wonderful feeling when efforts of the College Democrats’ helps someone get elected.
Nicely stated Erin, and you are also a great intramurals chairwoman!!
Way to put it Erin!!