Bonnie

Bonnie came to Nashville in the height of the Civil Rights Movement in 1965. She went on to attend Fisk University, a step that would have been unthinkable just a few short years before. During her 30-plus years in Nashville she has worked in her children's schools and for her neighborhood association.

For the last ten years, Bonnie has found a calling as a teacher for Nashville's newest residents, as an English instructor for adult refugees. She also feels called to work on behalf of Democratic candidates, and has served as a district committeewoman for 18 years. She now also serves as the DCDP's secretary.

First Political Memory
My earliest political memories include watching Democratic conventions on TV with my father and hearing my grandfather declare that he always voted and that he had always "voted a straight Democratic ticket". I remember well casting my first ballot for LBJ and, following the example of my father and grandfather, casting every subsequent ballot for the "straight Democratic ticket."

Guiding Principles
Following the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" has served me well, as it can apply to almost every situation.

Mottos
My rural background supplied me with plenty of wise sayings. Lately I find myself quoting my mother, "Some people can't be told. They have to feel". The reelection of "Dubya" speaks to the applicability of that.

Heroes
I admire Eleanor Roosevelt for her intelligence, sensitivity, and decency; Bobby Kennedy for his determination and grit; Congressman John Lewis for being the bravest person I have ever known and continuing to adhere to the philosophy of nonviolence.

Why She's a Democrat
I'm a Democrat because I believe in stewardship and understand that we have a responsibility to preserve and protect resources for posterity, as well as for ourselves. I believe a truly great society must protect and provide opportunities for all its citizens.

How She Got Involved
The first candidate I worked for was Albert Gore, Sr. I admired him greatly for his brave opposition to the Vietnam War. I have continued to support Democratic candidates and causes because I believe it is a citizen's duty and responsibility to participate in the process of government. I have served on the Davidson County Democratic Executive Committee for nearly 20 years.