Taking a stand as a proud Democrat

Amy Schwab welcomed Governor Bob Ferguson to the Power of Community event on June 18. The following are remarks that preceded the introduction.

"I am Chair of the Committee that organized this event. Tonight, we recognize the Power of Community and remind you that it is up to us - to each of us, working together, to realize this power - the power of organized action through our Democratic Party. 

This Power of Community is so much more than protesting, casting a ballot, or gathering in a hotel room on an odd Wednesday evening to remind ourselves that we are not alone. It is the power of everyday organized action through the political process, through our two-party system.  It is the power of collective action locally, and at larger state and federal levels. It is about showing up, using our voices to ensure that our party, our political leaders, and our government are guided by our values.

Lately, I have heard many poorly informed opinions on what Democrats are or are not doing. I’m saddened to say that many who protest what is being done in our country do not feel safe to be identified publicly as Democrats. 

When Kari invited me to get involved in the party, I told her my goal was to work to make it safe to be a Democrat in Walla Walla County. And, in the last week, “making it safe to be a Democrat” has taken on new meaning. 

I know that history suggests that an ‘out’ Democrat cannot be elected to a county-wide position. When I ran for the Port of Walla Walla, I did not highlight my involvement in the party because economic development should not be a partisan issue.  As you know, I was elected by a wide margin to be the first female Commissioner in that board’s 70-year history.

And now it’s time to publicly take a stand as a proud Democrat. I do this, not to be safe, but because I know that change only comes through organized effort. While I do not serve on the Port of Walla Walla Commission AS a Democrat, I am proud to be known as a Democrat serving my community on the Port of Walla Walla Commission.

Until our community leaders who embrace the values of our Democratic Party can stand publicly with our party, our communities cannot recognize that it is, indeed, Democratic Party values that guide those leaders. Without speaking out, our community cannot recognize that we are the party of good governance and sound fiscal stewardship, that care for our communities and the environment that support us."

Amy Schwab, Second Vice Chair and Finance Committee Chair