DNC in Denver - Notes from a Grassroots Attendee

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to attend several events while the DNC was in Denver. My many thanks go to Darlene Dennis and Christina Metzler at AOTA, plus Amy Lamb from AOTPAC. To witness such an event firsthand in my own hometown was truly a once in a lifetime event.

I was able to hear Bill Clinton and Senator Joe Biden speak at the Pepsi Center Wednesday evening. This included an appearance by Barack Obama at the end of the evening. The atmosphere was electric and the speakers were inspiring.

Thursday was packed with events culminating in Barack Obama’s acceptance speech at Invesco Field at Mile High. Earlier in the day, the most interesting events were a question/answer session with Nancy Pelosi, then a reception for women in the Senate. The AOTA brochure on surviving handshaking while on the campaign trail was helpful in sparking conversations with the senators. One senator said right away that she knew exactly what OT’s do; she was a social worker before becoming a senator.

The feeling at Invesco Field Thursday evening was indescribable; One African American woman remarked that she never thought she would see this happen in her lifetime, where a man of color was a nominee for the Presidency. People were extremely happy, hopeful and involved. The weather was perfect and there were American flags everywhere. Courtesies to strangers were extended that you would never experience at any football stadium.

To have the opportunity to attend such an event was incredible. Thank you again to all who made this possible.

Beth Fletcher, OT, Denver, CO