Podcast Summary
Congresswoman Cori Bush's Calling to Serve: For those passionate about making a difference, it's a calling that requires sacrifice and resilience. Believe in the power of your vote and stay engaged in the political process.
For those who are passionate about making a difference, whether it's through politics or other pursuits, it can be a calling that requires sacrifice and resilience. Congresswoman Cori Bush shared her personal journey into politics, which was influenced by her father's dedication to serving his community despite the challenges and lack of financial reward. She emphasized that for the right people, it's a calling, but for others, it may be driven by capitalistic gains. Bush also encouraged listeners to believe in the power of their votes and the importance of being engaged in the political process, especially during midterm elections. Overall, her message emphasized the importance of staying true to one's values and pursuing one's purpose, even in the face of adversity.
From avoiding politics to running for US Senate: Personal experiences and community needs can inspire individuals to engage in politics, even when unexpected. Regret of inaction can motivate, and it's crucial to ensure that those in power represent the community's best interests.
Sometimes, circumstances and the needs of the community can call us to action, even when we never imagined ourselves in that role. Cori Bush shared her personal journey from avoiding politics to running for US Senate, inspired by the need for more black women in the Senate and the potential impact on her children's future. This story echoes the experiences of Nichelle Nichols and Amanda Seals, who were also encouraged to use their platforms for change. The regret of not doing enough can be a powerful motivator to engage in the political process, especially when faced with the stark reality of the consequences of inaction. Despite the challenges and obstacles, it's crucial to remember that someone will always occupy the seat of power, and it's essential to ensure that it's someone who represents the best interests of the community.
Your vote matters in local and state elections: Local and state elections impact daily life, voting influences decisions, being informed and engaged is essential for positive change
Every vote counts, no matter the level of election. The decisions made by local and state officials can significantly impact our daily lives, from education and healthcare to policing and trash services. By not participating in elections, we give up our power to influence these decisions. Even if we don't fully understand the roles and responsibilities of certain elected positions, voting for them still contributes to the outcome of other issues on the ballot. Ignoring the importance of voting can lead to feelings of powerlessness and disillusionment, but being informed and engaged in the political process is essential for creating positive change, especially for those who have the least.
Legislating during a crisis: Making a difference: During crises, legislators can write and pass laws to address pressing issues, but politics and opposition can be challenges. Prioritize marginalized communities, be open to unconventional legislation, and focus on people's needs.
During times of crisis, legislators have the power to make a difference by sponsoring and passing laws that address pressing issues. For example, during the pandemic, a congresswoman in Missouri identified the problem of evictions and, with her team, wrote and passed legislation to prevent people from being put out on the streets. However, politics can get in the way, with some people feeling that individuals should be responsible for their own housing. Despite these challenges, the congresswoman emphasized the importance of mercy and taking care of people, especially those who have suffered the most damage. She also highlighted that there is no set playbook for legislation, and anyone can write a bill on any topic. Ultimately, her goal is to prioritize the needs of marginalized communities and bring repair and restoration to those who have been affected the most. This approach requires paying attention to the people and their needs, and being open to the possibility of passing unconventional legislation.
Understanding the unique needs of each district: Congresspeople should prioritize addressing district-specific issues and collaborate with local leaders for effective representation
While a congressperson's role extends to both federal and state levels, their primary focus should be on addressing the unique needs and issues within their own district due to its specific demographics, climates, and economic status. This approach allows for a multileveled attack on problems, with the congressperson tackling issues on a macro level, and local leaders handling them at the micro level. It's important to remember that each district has distinct challenges and requires tailored solutions. For instance, a district dealing with high rates of police murder and homicides would prioritize legislation to address these issues, while an affluent district might focus on different concerns. Ultimately, effective representation requires a deep understanding of the community's needs and a commitment to advocating for them at the appropriate level.
State-level decisions shaping national policies: State legislative changes on contentious issues may set precedents, leading to unequal access to fundamental rights and services based on location. Federal efforts aim for uniformity and equality, while addressing big money's influence is crucial for fair decision-making.
The political landscape in various states, such as Missouri and Texas, is witnessing significant legislative changes on contentious issues like mask mandates, self-defense laws, and abortion rights. These state-level decisions can potentially set precedents for the rest of the country, especially when it comes to the Supreme Court's role in overturning established federal laws like Roe v. Wade. This can result in unequal access to fundamental rights and services based on geographical location. To counteract this, efforts are being made at the federal level to ensure uniformity and equality in areas like abortion access. It's crucial to stay informed about these developments and advocate for transparency and accessibility in politics. Additionally, addressing the influence of big money and corporations in politics is essential to promoting fair and equitable decision-making.
Politician's commitment to small donations: Politician refuses big donations, empowers accountability through small donations from constituents, allowing for best interest decision-making.
The power dynamics in politics can be influenced by donations and allegiances, which can impact decision-making. However, some politicians, like the one being discussed, refuse to take corporate or large donations and instead rely on small donations from regular people to maintain their allegiance to their constituents. This approach empowers the politician to act in the best interest of their community, rather than being swayed by external influences. The discussed politician's stance on issues, such as prescription drug costs and public safety, reflects their commitment to the people and their values. This approach may not be popular with all, but it allows for a more accountable and transparent political system.
Contribute effectively to important causes: Despite challenges, persevere and do the work you're capable of to make a difference in important causes
Everyone, regardless of their background or resources, should do the work they are capable of and qualified for in order to contribute effectively to important causes. This was discussed in the context of politics and the need for individuals to use their voices and votes to make a difference, even if they face opposition or challenges. The speaker emphasized the importance of not being deterred by a lack of power or resources, and shared personal experiences of the unexpected challenges she faced when transitioning into her role in Congress. These challenges included financial difficulties due to the requirement to move to DC and the time spent on orientation before being sworn in. Despite these challenges, the speaker emphasized the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
Financial Challenges for Representatives: Representatives face financial hurdles, including delayed pay and high housing costs, but continue serving due to a sense of mission and urgency to help those in need.
Serving in Congress comes with significant financial challenges, including a delay in receiving the first paycheck and the high cost of housing, which leaves little money for other expenses. Additionally, representatives cannot vote to increase their own pay due to public perception. However, the pandemic has brought attention to issues like healthcare and student debt, which the representative has been advocating for, leading to positive changes. Despite the challenges and long hours, the representative views her role as a mission rather than a career choice, driven by a deep sense of urgency to help those in need.
Navigating the Demands of Being a Congress Member: Maintaining a balance between work and personal life as a Congress member involves setting boundaries, seeking therapy, and building a strong support system. Despite the challenges, it's essential to prioritize self-care and remain optimistic.
Being an activist or a public figure, especially in a role like being a Congress member, requires a great deal of dedication, hard work, and self-care. The speaker shares her personal experiences of learning boundaries, seeking therapy, and building a strong support system to manage the demands of her job. The work doesn't stop when not in session; instead, it involves district work, meetings with local officials, and legislation development. When in session, Congress members must be present to vote, which requires quick mobility and adaptability. It's crucial for them to find time for self-care amidst their busy schedules, as the pressure to perform can be immense. The speaker emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and acknowledges the challenges of balancing work and personal life. Despite the difficulties, she remains optimistic and encourages others to persevere.
Balancing duties as a congressperson: Congresspeople have long hours and unpredictable schedules, but their mission is to make a difference for the least privileged and encourage others to use their power as voters to bring about change.
Being a congressperson involves a tremendous amount of work and unpredictable schedules. They have to balance legislative duties, meetings with colleagues, constituent issues, and advocacy work. The workdays can last for more than 24 hours, and votes can be called at any time. Despite the challenges, Congressperson Corey's mission is to make a difference for the least privileged and be a beacon of change. Corey encourages people to use their power as voters to create movement and bring about change. The door is open for regular people to run for office and make a difference.
Everyone can make a difference: Engage in activism, call legislators, attend rallies, and educate oneself to effect change. Small actions, like ordering food for delivery, can also bring convenience and joy.
Individuals, regardless of their educational background or societal status, can make a difference and bring about change by being dedicated to the cause and demanding action from their representatives. As Congresswoman Rasheen Aldridge emphasized, "Power won't concede without a demand." It's essential to engage in activism, such as calling legislators, attending rallies, and educating oneself about local elections, to make one's voice heard and effect change. The Congresswoman's message is clear: everyone has the power to make a difference, and it's crucial to exercise that power by being active and engaged in the political process. Additionally, the McDonald's app offer of $0 delivery fee with any purchase of $15 or more can serve as a reminder that small actions, like ordering food for delivery, can also bring convenience and joy to our daily lives.
