Democratic Unity Dinner
By Edwina Ward
On March, 15 2014, the Broward Democratic Party held its Annual Unity Dinner, previously known as the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner, at the Marriott Coral Springs Hotel Golf Club and Convention Center. This event brought Democrats from across the country together to discuss the most pressing issues facing the party and to honor outstanding members.
The Party Chairman, Mitch Ceasar, said, “This is an election year, and it will be one of the most significant elections in the history of Florida. We as Democrats understand that our citizens cannot progress with the regressive, anti-middle class polices from our current governor.” Other distinguished guest included the keynote speaker and Democratic Whip Congressman Steny Hoyer of Maryland, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Congressman Ted Deutch.
The highest award of the night, “The Lifetime Achievement Award,” was presented to Congressman Alcee L. Hastings for his contributions and commitment to being a champion in Congress in support of the rights of minorities, women, the elderly, children, and immigrants for over 20 years.
Congressman Hastings accepted the highest award with a strong message urging Democrats to be about the business of the people, organize phone banks and to get out the vote. He said this next election for Governor is important, not only because current Governor Rick Scott has been wrong on the issues which includes refusing $51 billion dollars in a Medicaid expansion that Congress approved, but also because the Florida Supreme Court could potentially have three members retiring from the bench.
With the Governor having the power to appoint new justices, it is imperative that a Democrat is making those new appointments in order to preserve a court system that protects the rights of Florida residents from a Republican controlled Legislature.
