Joe Erwin, Chair, South Carolina Democratic Party – In my travels all over our state speaking to and meeting with South Carolina Democrats, I have been refreshingly reminded that the Democratic Party is a party of extraordinary diversity. We are young and old, representing a host of cultures, and come from every point on the economic scale. It makes our Party vibrant and dynamic by nature, and is one of our greatest strengths. It is one of the reasons I'm a Democrat. But diversity does not come without its challenges. One challenge is to find common ground within the midst of our diversity. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "[w]e may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now." We can find that common ground in our commitment to opportunity. Simply put, the reason that the Democratic Party attracts folks from every walk of life is because we are the party of opportunity. Democrats led the nation into the era of civil rights, and continue the lead today. We believe in opportunity up and down the income chain; not just opportunity for those with means. We believe in equal opportunity regardless of sex, race, religion or creed. And we don’t just believe in it because it’s the right thing to do; we believe in it because in our souls, we know that it is our different cultures and perspectives that make our Party great. During my campaign for Party Chair, I saw people with varied backgrounds and beliefs seize a chance to become a part of the Democratic Party's renewal. Young, old, African-American, Native American, men and women all answered this call of opportunity. Why? People gave of themselves because they believed in something bigger than themselves. The power generated by diverse people united for a common purpose is absolutely awesome. Every day since I was elected Party Chair, the tide of opportunity has continued to build. All over the state, people are giving their time and their energy to our cause. Young people are flooding into the party as never before. Party leaders, County Chairs, elected officials and longtime volunteers are sharpening their focus and doubling their efforts. “Dormant” Democrats have started to return, recognizing that it really is a new day for South Carolina Democrats and ready to get re-engaged. Even in this time of economic downturn, folks are digging deep to contribute financially to our party, and I have completely dedicated myself to this opportunity to rebuild. South Carolina's prominence in the Presidential Primary schedule has catapulted us onto the national stage and provides a great opportunity for our party: to proudly show our diversity and how it makes us stronger. As Chair, I will work unendingly to unite us in a way that will make South Carolina a shining example of equality and tolerance. On February 3, 2004, as the nation looks on, we will run a world-class primary which will be an example of organization and integrity, and showcases the truly diverse nature of South Carolina Democrats. Thrust into the spotlight, South Carolina Democrats are rising to the occasion. Diversity in all aspects of our work -- that mirrors the truly exceptional diversity of our Party -- and our commitment to opportunity will be the key. Ultimately, let us all remember that our cause is important. It is greater than any one of us. Now is the time for all of us who want the best for our party and our state to give our best. And to give thanks that, as Dr. King said, we are “in this boat together.” We will once again prove that when diversity meets opportunity, anything is possible. <Back to Home