MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR:
A Lesson in Participatory Democracy

The purpose of this column is to congratulate the South-Asian Democrats community for showing us all what can be accomplished when a relatively small group of people decide to become involved in the political process. A year ago, there was virtually no voice within the Democratic Party articulating the concerns and issues of the Muslim and South Asian communities here or affording others within that community a place to express their political aspirations. That certainly is no longer the case.

Last fall, some Asian-American citizens decided they should no longer sit idly around wringing their hands and fretting over the injustices to which they had been subjected especially since the 9/11 tragedy. So they decided to become involved in the political process, instead.

Ironically, prior to that time, many of these folks were Republicans. But after 9/11 they came to realize that it is Democrats who believe in fundamental fairness and civil rights and non-discrimination and the separation of church and state. So they organized. These people recruited scores of candidates to run for precinct chair (65), became active in political races, attended precinct conventions, elected delegates to senatorial district conventions (325 of them), proposed resolutions on issues in interest to them, and basically just got involved.

And this wasn't some an effort by some sophisticated political devotees. This was grassroots politics in its purest and best form. They held meeting to train their followers how to participate in the process and spent countless hours organizing and teaching.

So now they are "players" in the Democratic Party - no doubt about that. They have the organization and the "clout" to assure their issues and their people are not ignored by the Party. Good work, South-Asian Democrats. I applaud you. Welcome to the Democratic Party.

This group has a list of issues of primary importance to this community. While not expansive enough to be the platform for the whole Party, it sure looks to me like this constituent group should be completely comfortable in the Democratic party - and vice-versa. Here is their list of issues:

     Civil Liberties - Repeal those sections of the Patriot Act that violate fundamental rights and liberties as stated in the U. S. Constitution;

     Affirmation of Religious Liberty and Governmental Integrity - Maintain separation of the 'church' from the 'state';

     Health Care for All Americans - Support universal healthcare;

     Academic Freedom - Affirm free discourse at academic institutions;

     International Relations - #1 priority to pursue Al-Qaeda terrorist network; build a stable and democratic Iraq and a speedy exit; just and comprehensive settlement to the conflict in the Middle Ease; support democratic elections in Kashmir;

     Budgets, Taxes, Deficits, and the National Debt -Immediate review of fiscal policy; restore tax equity and deficit reduction.

Sounds like a pretty good basis for a platform to me (though it does need some work adding planks concerning things like choice, non-discrimination for all Americans, workers rights, jobs, education, and the environment). But it's a really good start. Welcome to the Harris County Democratic Party, East-Asian and Muslim Democrats. We're glad to have you with us.

Gerry Birnberg
Chair, Harris County Democratic Party
April 24, 2004

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