ACDP Committed to Working Together

By Mary Geren

“I think the best of us comes when we are working together collectively. And it doesn't mean that we can't disagree. We've got to learn……to disagree without being disagreeable.”

Martin Luther King III

Recently, I was humbled and honored to be appointed executive director of the Anderson County Democratic Party’s Executive Committee, which is led by Chairwoman Tonya Winbush. This is the second time this summer Anderson Democrats have made history. 

Back in July, we had the most profitable fundraiser in our party’s history when we honored Councilwoman Gracie Floyd and Dr. George West. Our outside gathering of about 300 attendees was one of the most beautiful mosaics of diversity I have ever witnessed in Anderson, South Carolina. This event was possible because as Martin Luther King III said, “The best of us comes when we are working together collectively.”

Now, through more collective hard work, determination, and bold ideas, the ACDP is once again making history…this time with my appointment. Such a move has never been attempted in Anderson, although it has been discussed over the years. Admittedly, we are venturing outside of our comfort zone and daring to blaze a new trail, one that leads us to a more democratic, equitable community. 

As such, Chairwoman Winbush and our entire leadership team are working tirelessly to ensure we are prepared for the 2022 elections and beyond. Alas, this is no easy undertaking, but as Mr. King said, it’s ok to disagree sometimes. However, uniting as one means that we listen to others with an open mind and work until we have found solutions to the injustices surrounding us. This concept should also cross party lines. 

Often, I am asked why I am a Democrat, especially one in South Carolina. There are many layers to that question, but to put it simply, I believe all Americans should have the same opportunities to pursue the American Dream: life, liberty, and happiness. As a scrappy, poor kid from the red hills of Northeast Georgia, the Democratic Party had my back by working to provide me with the tools to pursue my dreams. I want all children to be given those same tools regardless of their skin color, gender, religion, class, zip code, or orientation.

While our party is far from perfect, at the end of the day, we want to help people. Just as the Democratic Party had my back, now it’s time to return the favor, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve.

So, stay tuned, friends. With the leadership of Chairwoman Winbush, and the rest of our talented and dedicated team, we are sure to get into the best kind of good, necessary trouble. As long as we do this together, we WILL rise. 

Please visit our website, anderson countyscdemocrats.org, or our Facebook page, Anderson County SC Democratic Party, for more information on how you can join our Good Trouble Crusade. 

Be kind; be brave; be you. There’s enough mediocrity in this world. 

Mary Geren is executive director of the Anderson County Democratic Party.