The Molokai Times
Monday, June 2, 2008
By Sen. J. Kalani English, (D-6 Hana, E. & Upcountry Maui, Molokai, Lanai & Kaho'olawe)
Last weekend, Democrats from around the state gathered at our state convention to consider a wide variety of questions, from elements of the party platform to the attendees of the National Democratic Convention in August, to the core questions determining how our party will operate over the coming months and years. It is a side of the political system that many members of the community never get to see, the deep details of building a foundation for future decision-making.
One fact that struck me was that among the full house at the cavernous Coral Ballroom at Waikiki's Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel—one of the largest gathering places in our state—only two precincts enjoyed one hundred percent participation: Moloka'i and Lana'i.
This is no small matter. Even precincts on Oahu, where delegates were only a drive away from the convention floor, could not muster full participation. By contrast, Moloka'i and Lana'i could arrange for all of their delegates to fly to O'ahu, get ground transportation, and stay with family or in hotels. So despite the fact that the Moloka'i and Lana'i delegations faced the greatest obstacles to appearing at the convention, they got all of their people there, and on the floor.
There is a saying that most decisions are made by those who show up. To a large extent, that translates to the fact that we place a lot of trust in those who care enough to make the effort to participate. In a case like that of the Moloka'i and Lana'i delegations to the state convention, I am satisfied that, especially since being there takes a special effort, our trust is well placed.
It doesn't take much effort or commitment to sit at home and grumble about how things are going in our state, or to criticize the political process. You don't have to spend much time in the political arena to realize that everyone has an opinion, and is not shy about expressing it. The voices that are most often heard, the ones that stand the greatest chance of actually making a difference, are those that make an extra effort. If a member of the community takes the time to write a succinct letter or email, presenting a well-thought-out and relevant argument, that person will have an impact.
I am proud of the residents of Moloka'i and Lana'i who made the commitment and took the time to appear at the convention. It established them as voices within the Democratic Party who cannot be ignored, and forces within our community who are willing to back up their opinions with action. I hope they will serve as inspiration to others in our district and across the state, encouraging others to find meaningful ways of getting involved and making an impact.
To me, there is no greater sight than a community stepping forward together, and no more inspiring sound than that of a community raising its common voice. The representatives of Moloka'i and Lana'i have earned my respect, and my thanks.
Original article URL: http://www.molokaitimes.com/articles/86222152.asp