Over the weekend I had the opportunity to attend the Florida Democratic Party's DCCA retreat in St. Petersburg.
It was interesting, to say the least.
First, all of my fellow Democrats who like to scream to high heaven about my criticisms of the party were noticeably quiet as church mice with me actually present.
It was their opportunity to tell me to my face what they didn't like, and they didn't take it.
Duly noted. Ha!
Second, I actually enjoyed the event.
I got an opportunity to meet some very nice people, and I had fun.
Without going into detail about all of the goings on at the event -- Allison Nielsen did a fine job with that -- I'd like to point out the fact that Aramis Ayala was one of the appointments that Chair Stephen Bittel made, and for that one I'll give him kudos.
While there has been no official statement from the Florida Democratic Party regarding the Ayala situation, I'm a firm believer in actions speaking louder than words.
Appointing Ayala to the Judiciary Committee speaks volumes, as far as I am concerned.
I have made no secret how I feel about her right to discretion, and seeing the FDP stand behind her in the form of this appointment is a pleasant surprise.
Bittel could have not appointed her in fear of retribution.
The old guard FDP rarely took a stand when it came to issues affecting the black community, so I'll take THIS stand all day, every day!
The showdown between Aramis Ayala and Gov. Rick Scott is headed toward the Florida Supreme Court, and we will all be watching.
While I saw no concrete action plan at the Democratic Black Caucus meeting about engaging the black community and getting out the vote, getting involved in issues, and actually taking a stand is a good start.
Showing people you are there for them is a good way to get people to be there for you at the polls.
Leslie Wimes, a Sunshine State News columnist, is founder and president of Women on the Move and the Democratic African American Women Caucus, www.daawc.com. Follow Leslie on Twitter: @womenonthemove1.
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Comments
Leslie, I like you; BUT, you
For the FDP to embrace Aramis
Ayala?!?... "discretion"?...
Who cares...What you
Leslie, it's enlightened
You were there, leslie? So
Stop lying the authorized
Nope, sorry Diane Brown.
Dang straight I have a fear.
Wow! That has to be the most
You insult the REAL stronge
You can't even spell vendetta
Well Leslie, they probably
Diane, you want to be more