Solidarity Defined
February 21st, 2010The main focus of our posts thus far has been the core group of marchers. And that’s understandable; it has been their dedication that has captivated people across the country.
Four days into our trek, energy is starting to run low. The determination is still as fierce as ever, but physically our bodies are already starting to wear down a bit. It’s not terribly obvious, but after being with each other 15-20+ miles a day, you start to notice the more gentle indications of exhaustion - getting hoarse and coughing more, forgetting things, limping slightly, etc.
So, enough about us. Tonight I’d like to recognize some people who came out today for just part of the march. Their presence helped give us a much appreciated jolt. There is really something to be said for such a tangible demonstration of solidarity. These people didn’t stop at putting a sign in their lawn; they bought new boots and hit the pavement.
We were honored to have Georgeanne Kohler, a real celebrity in the world of health care activism, join us for over two miles. Georgeanne has been a real source of inspiration for us ever since we heard about her personal campaign to talk to anyone and everyone about how her brother died because he didn’t have health insurance. So, to see her buy a new pair of shoes and march for as long her body allowed was just awesome. It wasn’t until dinner this evening that we learned she had been on a bus since 2 am just to get here, and that she wouldn’t arrive home until 3 am tomorrow - - a few hours before she’s due in to work.
Rev. Rusty we met today at a meet-up in Havre de Grace, a beautiful town in MD. After the meet-up, he wanted to show his support, so he parked his car and walked miles with us.
Finally, I’d like to highlight Dr. Angeles Gonzalez, who has a day and a half off from work this week. She left her office in Philly Sat. afternoon and joined us in time for the rally in Aberdeen, MD. She’ll spend tomorrow marching for her uninsured patients.
Today one of our core marchers, Bill, reflected that he’d been thinking a lot about the Wizard of Oz as he walked -walking for days in order to see a wizard to fix such important problems. Bill, alluding to the young women of the group, pointed out that “There are more than a few Dorothys here” and pinned himself as the Tin Man - stiff and hoping for that can of oil. And Toto…”We’re missing a Toto, so if you know of a dog you’d like us to walk (for 90 miles) let us know.”
There will be hundreds of people like Georgeanne, Rusty and Angeles walking with us that final day. Seeing hundreds and hundreds of people greet us as we arrive in DC on Day 8 I’m sure will be just that can of oil Bill’s been looking forward to. Wednesday, Feb 24th 12:30 at Union Station. Be there and, if you can, bring Bill a Toto.
–Athena