Dear Democrat Citizens,
As a young girl I marveled at how engaged, convicted, and dedicated my dear Auntie was each time the “election” season was upon us. She was the one family member who ensured that as young people we knew the importance of not only becoming educated about the issues but also about exercising our right to vote. My dear Auntie was a registered Democrat, and she too believed in the Democratic ideals of advocating for the civil rights of minorities, social welfare programs, worker rights, and other traditions supported by her party.
Although we were a family of modest means, we were a proud District family with our own take on democracy and what it should represent for us as a minority family. Like my dear Auntie and role model, I too sought to be as engaging, and accountable to the ideals that I had been taught. It is her spirit and determination that has helped to propel me to become the grounded, advocate, activist, and protector of others’ rights that I am today.
Even as a registered member of the Independent party since 2012, I will always pay homage to my dear Auntie the Democrat, who made sure that I knew the meaning of being a loyal steward, and participant in Democracy. May God continue to bless her, for I was a Democrat thanks to her, long before I knew to seek a higher, much more needed, and consistent accountability from our lawmakers and elected officials.
I am Mayoral Candidate Rhonda Hamilton, a third generation Washingtonian, a small business owner, daughter of the military, daughter of schizophrenia, and lover of my dear city which raised and helped to nurture me. My experiences have helped to shape and mold me into the young, responsible citizen that I am.
Yes, I am an Independent, but most importantly I am a humanitarian. Voting for me should not be about party, but about humanity. I am a leader who will always care about the people. As the next Mayor of D.C. I intend to make it about Community!
Rest in Peace Auntie.
12/06/47 – 08/12/16
