(my first diary entry ever, so please go easy on me)
So my friend Diane and I canvassed the local trailer park this afternoon, volunteering for the Obama campaign. Overall, we had a great response; many people leaning towards Obama and a couple of definites. One guy said he's probably going to go with his gut and vote Obama, even though his Baptist church tends to push McCain on them. Usually canvassing ends up being a pleasant surprise with people loving to talk politics because they never have the chance otherwise. Anyhow, all was hunky-dory until...
...We knocked on Jill's door (name has been changed to protect the not-so-innocent). Jill answered and confirmed her identity, and I heard her call out, "Go Obama" and she raised her hand, so I hi-fived her back. At the same time, Diane was saying, "Thanks for your time." I couldn't figure out what Diane was doing, until I heard numerous shouts from inside the trailer yelling, "No blacks!" Then it dawned on me that Jill had yelled, "No Obama" and raised her hand in a threat... So, as Jill grew more venomous with her gesturing and louder in volume yelling "bitches", Diane and I made a quick retreat to the road.
Due to my complete naivete, I never really experienced any fear. Had I been more street smart like Diane, I probably would have sensed the hostility and made a run for it. I'm still amazed that I gave the lady a high-five. I must truly assume the best of people; and usually, folks do end up on the good end. And, in this instance, I was glad that we didn't give the lady the satisfaction of seeing any fear-- Instead, we left peacefully, with looks of utter disbelief. More than anything, Jill made me feel sad.
I could let that one trailer end my canvassing days... but when I think about the number of people I've talked to who were thankful to have someone listen to their concerns or who are for the first time thinking more about politics or who are reformed republicans eager for change... I know I'll keep it up.