Rally to save democracy at Hasbrouck Park in New Paltz on October 19

Those who believe American democracy is in peril may wish to go to Hasbrouck Park on October 19; from noon until 4 p.m. will be an event dubbed a “save democracy celebration and call-to-action rally,” which is organized “to unite the community around the principles of freedom, democracy and shared civic values while energizing attendees to take action in support of the Democratic Party.” Amidst musical performances by Soul Purpose and the SUNY New Paltz jazz ensemble, attendees will rub elbows with one another while raising awareness about issues of concern, sign up to volunteer for campaigns and causes and register to vote. 

This event was the brainchild of Denise Jelley, a clinical social worker who spearheaded the first pride march in New Paltz back in 2005, not long after a series of historic same-sex weddings were performed in Peace Park and other locations in New Paltz. Jelley has now turned those organizing skills to the political issue of the day, namely the nature and future of democracy in this country. As with that pride march, “‘we’ grew out of ‘I'” in this case, Jelley confirmed, and many of the volunteers tapped for that effort 19 years ago are again working on this project. 

That pride march has a legacy: there’s been a parade nearly every year since in New Paltz, and the LGBTQ community center also resulted from that initial spate of organizing. Jelley hopes to see lasting impact from this rally, too. The leading to set this event up came only recently, with the park application being submitted on August 23. However, Jelley appears to understand the pulse of the community, noting that “the idea of an event was received with great enthusiasm” when it was first shared, and that “at that point, my wheels were in motion.” 

Come for the music, the message, or to connect with and better understanding one’s New Paltz neighbors. Organizers welcome donations to defray costs, which are being collected through a gofundme campaign. 

Jelley concluded comments about this event by quoting Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.”