Saplings

“The greatest mistake of the movement has been trying to organize a sleeping people around specific goals. You have to wake the people up first, then you'll get action.”
--- Malcolm X


Late in his life, starting around the time he was separating from the Nation of Islam, Malcolm would begin to take more interest in politics. Although he would never be enrolled in either political party, he would have a close association with some elected officials from the Democratic Party. I recognize Malcolm as among the most remarkable of Americans in history, and his teachings continue to influence my thinking and activities in social-political events.

Among the things I find most promising these days is the number of young people who are candidates for office in my region. One was raised in politics – she is the daughter of one of my favorite Congressmen. One of my aunts ran Maurice Hinchey's upstate offices. Michelle is now one of the best state senators we have ever had.

I have been telling her to run for higher office for some time now. When Antonio Delgado moved up to lieutenant governor – another politician I campaigned for – Michelle was considered as a potential replacement. She is a graduate from Cornell University, and as an environmentalist, heading that state agriculture committee, has very wide appeal in NYS now. Issues involving the future of farms and utility corporations has even the red neck republicans I know looking for strong leadership.

So I'm fine with her staying in the state senate for now, even if every time I communicate with her, I advocate for her eventually running for higher office. I think it is extremely important – this year in particular – to work for Democrats at all levels of government, from local to state to those who will serve in DC.