Who do we choose to be? by Ralph Knudson

I think we all admire the people of Ukraine, where we see the surprising power and depth of meaning that emerges when individuals make tough choices to come together and fight under the worst of circumstances, especially when so much is at stake.  Such choices raise critical questions for us: “who do I choose to be” during difficult times?     None of us really likes such questions, much less the crisis that forces them…yet we all have to face them at times of loss or crisis in our lives.  Such times put our values and priorities into sharp focus, and we often emerge more resilient and capable than before…and in the company of good supporters and companions.  

We are now facing a crisis right now in our own state and country about our democracy.  Voting and representation are at risk.  Our economy has been cornered by a corrupt few who manipulate our institutions for their gain while sowing discord and confusion among those left out.  Environmental decline is a growing threat, largely ignored by powerful corporations and institutions. The list grows.   The next midterm election has been predicted by pollsters to hand more seats over to Republican power, and the hopes we held for a renewal of Democratic principles after last year’s election are now presented as unrealistic by political pundits. 

But that’s only a  top-down perspective; largely unaware of  grass roots work now being done by people  coming together to make fundamental change and renewal in  communities of active Democrats across the country and here in Wisconsin. 

Our La Crosse County Democratic Party has become  a great example of effective grassroots energy in the community and effectiveness at the polls. We’ve won elections, nurtured and supported new and old candidates and pushed for more creativity among our board and membership.  And we’re just getting started.  This next year will be a critical one, and we’re changing up the game to play offense and show the strength of our principles and purpose throughout the year.  We have great leadership, hard- working board members, a year-round office, a sophisticated and updated Facebook and website (laxdems.com) and multiple initiatives underway.  If you haven’t done so, take 5-10 minutes to really explore laxdems.com and see for yourself.  It’s worth the time.  

In 2020, 34,786 people in La Crosse County voted Democratic, yet right now we only number a little over 200 registered Democrats. We need to increase that number…a lot.  What’s wrong with that number?  Our ability as a county party to prove pundits and pollsters dead wrong depends on the power of voters doing more;  to join the party,  to contribute  time and skills to help accomplish this next year’s goals. We need people power of all shapes and kinds, big and small in this time of many crises. Ask yourself: “If not now, when? If not me, who else?” Who will you choose to be for yourself and your neighbor?