Each People For the American Way (PFAW) member connects with the PFAW mission in a different way. We hear from members every day who support this work because they are passionate about the fight against right-wing extremism and for democracy, free expression, religious liberty, and equal justice under the law. It’s only through the support of our members that PFAW is able to work towards justice, freedom, and equity for all. This post is part of a blog series about our diverse network of members, and offers our dedicated network of supporters the chance to hear their stories and learn why they are committed to progressive values.
In June 2018, PFAW members in Maine and Rhode Island joined Rachel Foster, PFAW Membership and Planned Giving Coordinator, to share their thoughts on the political climate, their passion for progressive politics and why they value the work of PFAW.
Guests at the dinner in Portland, Maine included PFAW members Jessica Simpson (since 2011) and Dave Shirley (since 2015) along with Councilmember Spencer Thibodeau, a member of affiliate PFAW Foundation’s Young Elected Officials (YEO) Network. Jessica volunteered on Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign and shared that she continues to seek ways to contribute to her community, including her volunteer work with a recycling committee in her neighborhood. A close follower of PFAW’s work, Jessica recalled how helpful an analytical piece regarding a judicial nominee written by Paul Gordon was in writing a letter to Senator Collins and placed a call to thank him for his work. In the 2016 primaries Dave served as a delegate for the Bernie Sanders campaign and now spends his time working for a sustainable deli company on the weekends.
Days later in Providence, Rhode Island, members Judith Clark (since 2013) and Carol Terry (since 1995) joined State Representative Aaron Regunberg, a member of affiliate PFAW Foundation’s Young Elected Officials (YEO) Network, for a discussion on the 2016 election, where Democrats are going from here, and the wave of national protests. Lifelong progressives, the dinner quickly felt like old friends coming together as they discussed their collective experiences in politics and their hopes for the future.
Since March, Rachel Foster has attended dozens of meetings with members to discuss the PFAW mission, programs, and ways to get involved. These meetings offer an important opportunity for PFAW to hear from the people who make our work possible and to demonstrate our appreciation for your support. If you are interested in being part of an upcoming meeting, please message Rachel at [email protected].