Participate in Municipal Elections

In today’s busy world it is hard to find the time or generate the inclination to run for public office. Nevertheless, it is something more people who care about our community should think about doing.

As I was pondering what to say to local Democrats that might interest some to consider becoming candidates for local office in this fall’s municipal election, I came across an interesting writing by Eleanor Roosevelt entitled “How to Interest Women in Voting.” In her paper Mrs. Roosevelt wrote about the need “to see a greater interest taken by our Government in what is best for the mass of the people, as opposed to groups among the people.” This sentiment really struck me, as so often “groups” of people are the loudest or more participatory rather than the “mass.” This is not necessarily bad, especially if the goal of the group is to promote what is best for the whole town and to seek honest, workable solutions to what needs to be changed for the greater good, but that is not always the case.

The group I am most concerned about is the “mass” of people who are not often being heard. Too many people in our community do not speak up, get involved, or even vote, leaving too much power to the relatively few who do. All of us need to take an interest in who is managing our local government and how our town is being operated. If you want to get involved you can begin by getting your feet wet locally where all government begins, and then maybe even go on to engage somehow in state or even national politics. Make your voice heard with your votes and your calls and letters to our local officials. Better yet, consider a run for local public office yourself.

If you are interested in running for local office, and I hope many of you are, the Windham Democratic Party wants to hear from you. As Chair of the Democratic Town committee, I want to hear from you. If you think you might be interested in serving on any of our local boards and commissions, please write to me at 26 Fairway Drive, North Windham 06256. In July the committee will be selecting individuals to be Democratic Party endorsed candidates in this fall’s municipal elections. We want to involve new people in the numerous activities of the local Democratic Party. You have a right to be heard and participate, and what better way to exercise your right than to become directly involved as a candidate for public office. Yes, it will take time, but it will be time well spent, and your town needs you. No one else can take your place. Let us hear from you!

Dawn Niles
WDTC Chair