Leadership and Change

Once seated in the caucus precinct room, many commented that they had never seen such wonderful participation. At times, organizers seemed almost at a loss about administrative issues. They ran out of sign up sheets and ballots. Voters arrived much later than the allotted time and continued to arrive to place their votes. Time frames were extended and rules bent slightly to allow everyone to vote. Even though I was a first time participant, I have a hunch that the confusion about administrative issues happens quite frequently and, at least at this level, will continue to happen. Maybe not much change here, however it shows that even city precinct caucus leaders and volunteers need to be prepared to adjust quickly to minor, short lived, but necessary changes and adjustments.

The most interesting part of the evening for me was the presentations of resolutions from members of the public. I learned that this is the first level of input citizens have to shape the party's platform. Everyone could be a visionary leader here and advocate for change. When people presented their resolutions, I saw many of the leadership characteristics Kouzes & Posner listed in their book. Forward looking was the most observable characteristic. It was evident that the presenters had thought about the party platform and what was necessary to bring about significant and beneficial changes. The discussions that ensued for some of the resolutions presented showed that participants were not only interested, but concerned that the true intentions of the resolutions were clearly stated and would create avenues and accountabilities for desired change. The resolutions covered topics from universal healthcare, to livable wages and outsourcing of jobs to creation and enforcement of environmentally sound practices. While there were a few participants that presented many of the resolutions, my initial thoughts that they were isolated interests were proven wrong. The questions, discussions and passage of most motions showed me that these are topics that all participants were concerned about. Walking away from the caucus I felt very strongly that the current political, economical and environmental situation in the US is no longer acceptable and the participants of this precinct meeting expect major changes, as well as leaders that have the competence, honesty, vision and caring to work towards these changes.

One final comment about my experience. When the votes were counted and announced, I was surprised. Senator Obama was the winner, by a wide margin. Part of my surprise was due to my own state of inability to decide who I would vote for at this time. I had to ask myself, if I could vote (I cannot because I am not a citizen), how would this evening change my actions. Another part of my surprise was the participants' loudly pronounced desire for new leadership and widespread changes. Not the fact that they want change, but the fact that they came and were willing to be engaged. When I got home I listened to the news. One newscaster stated that people in Minnesota so desperately want new leadership that they are willing to take a chance with Senator Obama, even though relatively little is know of him. Is Senator Clinton just too much of a continuation of what has been and not perceived as enough of an authentic, courageous and forward looking leader who can turn over a new leaf and abandon old practices? This comment stuck with me and, in retrospect, made my entire caucus experience even more meaningful.

Claudia Beermann