Democratic Club

by Mary Larson

LW Contributor

During the Democratic Club’s membership meeting, Mariann Klinger bookended her presentation on the history of patriarchy in America by quoting Congresswoman Liz Cheney, saying “Let it not be said that the dedication of those who love freedom is less than the dedication of those who would destroy it.” This now oft-repeated quote came from Cheney as she wrapped up the last in a series of live hearings investigating last year’s attack on the U.S. Congress. She, in turn, was quoting Ronald Reagan’s great ally, Margaret Thatcher. Klinger followed the quote with a review of the history of patriarchal power in America, beginning with the founding fathers who left women out— along with everyone else who was not white, land-owning and male. After tracing the progress made in the 19th and 20th century, she went on to highlight a sampling of dangerous antifeminist rhetoric. As an example, Klinger pointed out that a Supreme Court justice is quoted as recently saying that the constitution does not prohibit discrimination against women. In discussing the recent court decision overturning Roe v Wade, she reported that Thomas Jefferson, John Marshall and Patrick Henry all viewed abortion as a private matter in a 1792 case.

In answer to her own question about what can be done, Klinger suggested club members should consider going door-to-door to get out more voters. She also urged the club to resume a voter-education program, this time for all Leisure World residents. Her third recommendation was to have members call all senators from all parties to press for movement on the Equal Rights Amendment. The 24/7 Capitol switchboard number is (202) 224-3121. Be ready to ask for the members of the Senate by name.

••• The LW Democratic Club’s monthly club meetings are now scheduled for the fourth Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9. The meetings will also be accessible via Zoom. The goal is to provide an opportunity for all members to participate; those who feel comfortable meeting face-to-face indoors as well as for those who don’t. Weather permitting, the SBLW Democratic Club’s Information and Hospitality Booth will be open in the parking lot outside Clubhouse 6 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Tuesday through September. The booth will be open on both Tuesdays and Thursdays during October.

For more in-depth reporting about plans for the upcoming General Election, as well as information about the club’s programs for the coming months, LW Democrats and no preferred party)supporters can subscribe to the club’s newsletter by emailing democraticclubsblw@gmail.com. People are asked to include their full name, address phone number, as well as party affiliation.