Weego: DFL should support and encourage youth

My friend Alex Weego gave a short speech at the Todd County DFL County convention. Felt his remarks were profound but drowned out by the noisiness of the end of the convention. Below are the notes for that talk that Alex sent me. I think if we all worked for and followed his three points below we'd be doing well personally and we'd be better off politically. Please take them to heart.

By Alex Weego

I’ve learned over the years that for most folks, the last thing they remember best is what they hear last. I believe this 2018 election cycle is pivotal for our national integrity, our moral and practical values, and that it will be key to reinitiating truth, stability and civility at all political levels. And just as important, it will give us the opportunity to regain our national respect and position within the international community.

As you prepare to begin your work on this important election please leave with these three points:

1. Stay true to our DFL values: Universal healthcare; Women’s right to choose; overturning “Citizen’s United”; ensuring voting rights (eliminate gerrymandering and needless voting restrictions); close irrational weapon loopholes; install economic equality; insure environmental protections; internet neutrality; and support the Dreamers, among other things.

2. Support our Youth: Truly invite our youth to participate in our electoral process; ensure they have a voice within the DFL and are involved in our discussions; listen to their ideas on local and national issues and encourage their participation in solutions; and most important, understand they are our next generation of leaders at all levels.

3. When in discussions with adversaries: listen with respect, be nice and polite; respond with our values and why they are important to all; be honest and truthful, know the facts; remember: aggression and fearful rhetoric never win the day.

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