Its been a few weeks since Chazie and I arrived at the old Grizwold Plaza Post Office in downtown Erie for our first day on the job, but it seems like we’ve been there for so much longer. I’d never worked on a campaign before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I wondered whether the rumors were true- like do you eat nothing but fast food? Do you work in the office until the sun goes down? Does the team act like a weird dysfunctional family? And I quickly realized the answer to all of these questions was yes. But what they don’t tell you is the feeling of accomplishment when you leave the office, and how you work long hours and eat bad food because you’re committed to something bigger than yourself. You’re never stuck at the office because you have to be, but because you want to be.
Our first two weeks consisted of sending out mailings, stuffing envelopes, and becoming a part of the team. It was a time for a lot of questions and answers, and settling in while our candidate enjoyed a vacation with his family. And then came the phone banking. Lots of calls were made as we got ready to host our two upcoming events: the Women for Wiley Committee Launch Event and a fundraiser hosted by two prominent men in the community.
I was so excited to get involved with the Women for Wiley event because of my women’s studies background and because of our role on the campaign as Planned Parenthood interns. As I made calls to remind women about the event, I was met with warm greetings and assurances that not only would they be attending our event but they were sure to be bringing some of their friends. I began to realize quickly that my candidate had made a great impression on the Erie community so far. During the events, he didn’t just give a speech, instead he was really committed to talking individually to all the attendees and asking them what issues they cared about. And when Sean talks, it’s not about party lines and who is Democrat and who is Republican. He wants to bring “Erie’s Values, Erie’s Voice” to Harrisburg and represent the citizens of the 49th district. He is not just the right Democrat for the job- he is the right person for the job.
Sean Wiley is truly an inspiring man with a beautiful family who is honestly devoted to the people of Erie. Sean’s commitment, sincerity, and energy has inspired voters to not only write down his name on election day but to volunteer where they can and support his cause of bettering the greater community of Erie and Pennsylvania. Campaign staff members Scott and Laura have been invaluable to the campaign, and Chazie and I have been more than lucky to be a part of the #1 race in the state. I feel compelled to support my candidate in everyway possible, whether it is with women’s advocacy work or making phone calls. But more importantly, when my time as a Planned Parenthood intern comes to a close, I will be there to volunteer as much time as I can until Election Day on November 6th. This internship has not only taught me the basics of grassroots organizing, but it has re-invigorated my passion for politics and educating voters. 3 months from now may seem like a long time, but I have hope that it will be a great day of joy for our campaign and our long hours will finally pay off.
Thank you to Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania Advocates for trusting in me to represent your values and message in this political election. I could not be more proud to be a part of your team and a part of standing up for the voices of so many women who deserve the best healthcare. “Women are watching, and we vote!”
- Elizabeth Deemer, Planned Parenthood of Western PA
- Elizabeth Deemer, Planned Parenthood of Western PA
