A father and husband, Ian is another fantastic phone banker referred to us by Vote Save America/Adopt a State.
A resident of a purple area of western Massachusetts, Ian often sees homes with Black Lives Matter signs next to homes with pro-Trump signs. “It is unfortunate that many Americans see these causes as contradictory – Black lives matter, regardless of what political party you belong – but that is how the issues have been spun by our president, politicians, and pundits,” Ian says. “I wouldn’t call myself an activist, though I have marched in a few protests, communicated with my representatives, participated in postcard-writing campaigns, and I make sure I vote in every election. After feeling upset at the constant doom and gloom of the news, I wanted to do something. Vote Save America’s Adopt a State program was a great way to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”
Check out this Q&A with Ian, and then sign up to join him for an upcoming virtual phone bank!
How many times have you volunteered with FLIP NC?
So far, I have volunteered about six times. I have mainly been involved in phone banking, but I have also done some social media outreach with some folks that I know who live in North Carolina.
What has surprised you most about our voter outreach?
I have been surprised by people’s eagerness to discuss their political beliefs, even when they do not coincide with FLIP NC’s goal of electing more Democrats into office.
If you've participated in other voter outreach efforts, how are FLIP NC's different?
I appreciate how organized and supportive FLIP NC’s organizers have been. They make it easy to volunteer! Just sign up and show up.
Have a funny story or touching moment to share? A conversation you remember?
In a recent phone conversation, a grandmother shared her thoughts about police reform and social justice. I often shy away from uncomfortable conversations, but they can surface during these calls. I figure my discomfort is a small price to pay to learn about other folks’ experiences and to, hopefully, encourage them to get involved. I think life is enriched by the connections we make with others. This has been made more difficult during the pandemic, where we are less likely to go out and meet new people. Phone banking has been a great way to make these connections and make a difference, too.
What's your top tip for someone who is new to voter outreach?
I would first thank you for your time and congratulate you on making the best choice. For first timers, I would suggest you review the information FLIP NC sends you. The folks you contact are often interested in discussing and learning more about the issues that are important to them and those a candidate supports.
What is really motivating you to get involved? Obviously, you want to FLIP NC, but tell us a bit about the "why."
North Carolina is an amazing place. I visited once and my memories of its grand mountains, tasty barbecue, and hospitable people continued to resonate with me. I wanted to help the state after I learned of the Republican underhandedness: illegal gerrymandering, voter ID laws, and a budget veto override while their Democratic colleagues were at a 9/11 remembrance.
How are you feeling about the 2020 election?
There is a real chance to flip North Carolina because voters are fired up! The districts were recently redrawn, making elections more fair – though the Republicans still hold an unfair advantage. Volunteers will make a difference by encouraging folks to get involved and vote.
Other than politics, what’s a passion of yours?
Lately, growing strawberries in my backyard has taken up a bit of my time. What could be better than all-you-can-eat strawberries!
Who do you admire in politics? Why?
There have been many incredible politicians. One of my favorites is [former U.S. House member] Henry Waxman because of his efforts to protect the environment.
What would you say to someone who is feeling totally dejected by our current state of politics? And how do you stay in the fight?
First of all, I get it and totally empathize with those feelings. The news seems pretty bad, and I need to control how much of it I read. The best remedy (and I thank my wife for hammering this into my head) is to get involved and do something. That action will be different for folks. Some might protest on the streets, while others make art or do phone banking.
Tell us about a political moment that inspired you, whether it was a personal conversation, a speech given by a president, or a recent "blue wave" moment.
I’ve been most inspired by the civil rights movement. There was no guarantee that members of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and other organizations would win the freedoms and rights they demanded. Often their activism was met with violence and imprisonment. In spite of these challenges, African Americans and their allies persisted. That’s why I like repeating a line from a song from that period: "Keep Your Eyes on the Prize.” It is an apt reminder for us to carry on the fight, for the greater good, in spite of our feeling dejected.