This past weekend, I had the unique privilege of once again experiencing the true democracy of a democratic society during the Georgia Fulton County 5th congressional district caucus. Over seventy people offered themselves for service, vying for one of the four seats as delegates to the democratic national convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. In my opinion, what I saw and experienced was a true microcosm of the nation in which we live. It was a productive democratic gathering of people from diverse backgrounds, varying political opinions but one sincere philosophical desire, wanting the best for our united states. The entire process was a tangible representation of the adage, “we all came on different ships, but we are all now in the same boat.” The election procedure of candidates lasted throughout the day and was indeed organized chaos at its best.

As I listened to the speeches of each candidate and the reasons for their desire to serve, I was amazed with the uniqueness and personalization of each presentation. Each address to the body assembled represented and spoke for some citizen who perhaps lacks a voice in society. Looking over the crowd, each person’s physical presence further represented someone that could not be there to participate in the democratic process. At the end of the day I submit our democracy may not be a perfect situation, but it is the best means by which the people and the person have meaningful input in determining and affecting public policy.

In a euphoric moment, I thought of the late Fannie Lou Hamer going to the democratic national convention in New Jersey during the summer of 1964. A woman of little means, who was even referenced as “illiterate,” by convention officials, Hamer had a fighting determined spirit and zest that represents a larger than life cause. Her manifesto still speaks for and advocates for society’s most vulnerable of citizens. Her words are forever etched in history as a reminder and moral compass, urging us always to make political decisions and sound choices for that which is morally and socially right for humanity.

Voter empowerment is inclusive always of registration, education and participation all working in concert. In this election year, public officials will be elected from the most local of levels to highest post in government, commander–in-chief. I submit that there is a unique difference between a politician and a public servant as well as a statesman and an elected official. As parties and candidates begin to make their seasonal rounds courting the public, it is my incessant optimism that they be examined with intentional scrutiny with an abundance of hope that we, the people will be heard!

BlackCommentator.com Guest Commentator, The Reverend D. D. Prather, is a noted Civil/Social Justice Activist and a native of Atlanta, GA. Click here to contact the Reverend Prather.