A Barack Obama Mama’s Journey to a California Delegate Election Caucus

[courtesy of California Progress Report]

By Lakshmi Kerner
Barack Obama Mama

Running for a Barack Obama delegate seat has been one of the most exciting, challenging, fun and difficult experiences in my life. Since meeting Barack Obama in February 2007 I have experienced a total metamorphosis from who I thought I was to the person I have become. I hardly recognize myself sometimes.

After applying in early March to the California Democratic Party to be an Obama delegate in Barbara Lee’s Congressional District 9, I realized I needed a mentor, someone who could show me the political ropes. I was introduced to Lucy Sells (seated in the picture at right), a smart, savvy, wonderful woman who has been active in progressive Democratic politics in the Bay Area for over 50 years. Lucy took me under her wings and guided me each step of the way. When I signed up to volunteer at the State Democratic Convention, Lucy offered to let me stay in her room and she said she would introduce me to everyone…and she nearly did that. I met so many people at the Convention, Lucy told them I was running to be an Obama delegate, gave them my flyer and asked them to vote for me.

At the Convention, I attended the last part of Christine Pelosi’s “Boot Camp” and when she asked if there was anyone in the room who was running to be a Barack Obama delegate, I shot out of my seat and ran up to the stage. Me, who has suffered from chronic stagefright all of my life. There I was on the stage in front of hundreds of people. I couldn’t believe it. I started out by telling the crowed: “Before I decided to run to be a Barack Obama delegate, I would not have been able to stand up in front of 10 people and lead them in silent prayer.”

The audience laughed and I relaxed. I told my story of meeting Barack and how deeply he impacted my life. I was filled with enthusiasm and joy when I spoke about this incredible man of impeccable integrity and a vision for our country, who spoke directly to my heart. I told of campaigning and voting for John Kennedy and campaigning for his brother, Bobby, and how heartbroken I was when they were assassinated. After the dual tragedies I did not want to be involved in politics any more. But here I am, about to turn 70 years of age in September, jumping into politics for the first time in my life because I am so inspired by Barack Obama.

People came up to me over the remainder of the weekend, saying they wished they lived in my district so they could vote for me and being so supportive. I was more turned on and excited than ever. My heart was alive, I can do this, YES, I CAN! The next day a beautiful older Black woman thanked me for telling my story on stage and with tears in her eyes, she told me how much I had inspired her; how I am a great example for older people to stay engaged in life. Two days later during a CNN interview, Christine Pelosi talked about me jumping up on stage filled with enthusiasm for Barack and said that this country needs more Barack Obama Mamas.