Buena suerte

But it should be more than luck.

Meeting legislators in their own turf can be fun but that's not the only reason one travels to the offices in the capitol. While many of us visited with smiles on our faces (because it's polite) and frowns in our hearts (because one must be sad about the state of education and immigration), the truth is that legislators and their aides must have us leave with a feeling of accomplishment. That is their job; that is, people that come to Harrisburg should feel as if they got heard and that something positive must come out of it. For the most part, they did their job.

Did we do ours? ???
The organizers certainly did. The coordination had very few glitches, the materials were good, the trainings very helpful. The pizza was hot, and the t-shirt cool.

But did WE??

I look at it as the beginning of a possible courtship. You meet the girl in a a quick exchange. We compliment each other then have to hurriedly part. Phone numbers are exchanged. If I call back within a day, I am really interested. If I wait a few days, she might think I am not interested. Wait two weeks and she's forgotten about me.

It's not much different with legislators. We have to call back as soon and as often as possible; the relationship depends on it.

Real change on immigration and education, and all other issues, can only happen when we have built up a relationship that works for all parties. Whether you were able to come to Hburg today or if you are working back home, DO take the time to follow up.

Our small numbers can be leveraged when we have more friends but we must be those that reach out and persist. SI se puede implies that the system is not the impediment. SI podemos implies that WE can do it. My faith is that we can follow up, make the call, and grow the relationships started today.

Buena Suerte. Ricardo Diaz