Health Care for America Now, the NC NAACP, the NC State AFL-CIO, and other allies of comprehensive health care reform organized a large rally on outside the old capital building in Raleigh, NC on Saturday, August 29, 2009. Over 1,000 North Carolinians turned out to support reform, and they heard a powerful message.
The Rev. Dr. William Barber, President of the NC NAACP, gave the opening remarks (still looking for video).
Rev. Dr. William Barber, NC NAACP President:
"We are here today because we need a healing in the land. We need those who want to perpetuate a sick health care system that is not for everybody and does not cover everybody to turn from their wicked ways."
There were several great speakers for the hour-long event, but this speech by MaryBe McMillan really got the crowd fired up.
MaryBe McMillan, Secretary-Treasurer of the NC State AFL-CIO:
"We working families have paid our dues, we have played by the rules, but the insurance companies have not...North Carolinians deserve better, and we have to make sure Congress knows we want better. So if you're fed up with corporate greed, if you're tired of worrying about getting sick, if you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, then stand up for what's fair, stand up for health care for all Americans."
For those who like a dose of satire with their reform message, there's this video from the Billionaire Club.
Billionaires Against Health Care Reform:
"For every millionaire who dreams of becoming a billionaire, it's time to say 'No' - hands off our profits!"
News 14 Carolinas covered the rally and the teabagging protesters.
UPDATE: Added clip of Rev. Dr. William Barber's remarks.