This week Jasmine and I have been working on writing letters to the editor in opposition to the Photo ID bill and SB 47, and we have been trying to get others to do the same. Unfortunately, this process has not been the easiest. When we first started this internship we were told that we might face some setbacks in our work, but I don’t think either of us expected something like this. Our previous letters to the editor about redistricting seemed to be well received, but people have not responded well to our recent letters. So many people have written comments and sent in letters in response to what we submitted. I think we were both surprised to see that so many people responded to our letter. So many letters to the editor are posted each day, it is interesting that people chose to respond to ours. They even took the time to use my name in their comments. We are like local celebrities! What was even more surprising was that people took the time to be so negative towards us as individuals, instead of focusing on the issue at hand. I suppose this sort of thing happens all the time to full time organizers, but it was a little shocking to us at first. Hopefully our letter writing campaign has smoother sailing from now on!
Local Celebrities
Here’s the link to our letter : http://www.reflector.com/opinion/letters/letter-bill-photo-id-voters-harmful-558445
Shaniqua and Jasmine
I am not surprised the comments got personal — especially if the issue is voter fraud. That myth — which is a flat out lie — has been deliberately spread and used to cause fear by media pundits seeking ratings and politicians hoping to get elected. It brings out the worst in people and tends to attract individuals who attack others, rather than discuss the facts.
But what I really have to say to you two is… CONGRATULATIONS! When you become the object of personal attacks by people on the other side, it is a very clear sign that you are being effective and are posing a threat to them! It’ll make you stronger and even more effective in the end. Wear your power proudly.
BTW, right now, there is an organized rightwing campaign to send letters in to newspaper in hopes they can trigger an override of Perdue’s veto of the photo ID bill. So what you are seeing was also orchestrated. Happily, in response I’ve heard from people wanting to write letters in support of the veto and was happy to steer them in the right direction. Anyone reading this interested in writing an LTE should drop me a line at katymunger@democracy-nc.org.