John Kerry Endorsed by Progressives

Article Tools

Print

E-mail

Comments

RSS

Unity behind John Kerry does not mean that we should not question his stand on issues. Unity means that we are working with him, to show him that he needs to find the courage, once again, to admit this war is wrong. It means showing him that universal, single-payer healthcare is the only option if, as he says, '[Healthcare] is a right for all Americans.'

Dr. Jim Zogby, founder and president of the Arab American Institute, spoke at the progressive convention about supporting Kerry. He said that there are those who believe it has to get worse before it gets better and those who believe it has to keep getting better, a little at a time. 'It's now about the only real choice we have and it's between George W. Bush and John Kerry. We have to make America better, even if it's only a little better.'

I cheered Kerry last night in the crowd at the Fleet Center. I allowed myself to be a prop, waiving a sign. I danced when they played, 'Celebration' as Edwards and Kerry flashed smiles and waved.

However, the progressive convention helped me realize that when Kerry is elected President of the United States, my work will not be done. As Medea Benjamin said: 'We all need to work together to make sure [Kerry] pulls troops out of Iraq.' Further, we all need to continue fighting for the things that matter: education, the environment, social services, etc.

The Kerry inauguration won't be the time to relax, it will be the starting point for progressives throughout the country to start rebuilding and recreating the parts of America that were stolen and destroyed during the presidency of George W. Bush.

Comments? Story tips? Write a letter to the editor

Like this? Want more?Subscribe to Utne magazine

RSS | Comments | E-mail | Print