Fort Lauderdale Federal Building was the location for an Abortion Rights Rally held on Saturday by Broward County Democrats. The rally was held to show support for Women’s Rights and to protest the appearance of impending roll back measures restricting women’s access to abortions currently being considered by the U. S. Supreme Court.
The enthusiastic crowd, with creative signs in tow, waived at passing cars receiving honks of approval demonstrating support while others among them listened to passionate speeches by democrat office holders and candidates seeking office. One by one, each speaker voiced their individual and collective displeasures with the court’s direction making vows and pleas to organize the vote.
Politicians speaking at the event included: Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, also a Democrat gubernatorial candidate, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), U.S. Congresswoman Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick, State Senator Shevrin Jones, State Rep. Daryl Campbell, Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, Broward County Commissioner Nan Rich and Broward County School Board Member Sarah Leonardi. Speaking and seeking re-election was State Senator Lauren Book along with her candidate challenger, former Commissioner Barbara Sharief. Former Commissioner Dale Holness also spoke and is seeking a Congressional District 20 re-match to unseat McCormick for the seat formerly held by Congressman Alcee Hastings. Cynthia Bush, Broward Democrat Party past president and Aude Sicard, candidate for District 8 addressed crowd as well.
Lasting approximately two hours, some participants attending signed petitions, strategized and huddled in small groups, expressing their concerns and feelings, but emerged more determined to fight. The leaked landmark decision is feared to be in serious jeopardy and headed for reversal causing many present to voice anxiety that the court’s current trajectory was a precursor to eliminate other rights already achieved. The Rally, a Call to Action, by Broward Democrat Party is one in a series of events planned by the party, according to Rick Hoye, President.
The community is urged to participate by joining the local Get Out the Vote (GOTV) efforts and activities within your neighborhoods. As with others, this is a consequential election. Please check your voter status, register to vote and register others in your sphere of influence. Returning Citizens (ex-offenders) should determine voting eligibility and research funding for fee assistance. Job opportunities are currently available to register voters. Seize the opportunity!
Linda M. Thigpen is a Democrat Executive Committee Precinct Committeewoman in Pembroke Pines and Guest Columnist of the Westside Gazette. She can be contacted by calling (305) 804 7195 or emailing: Lindathigp@aol.com
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