June 26 Florida Legislative Forum to Transcend Party Affiliation

By Melissa A. Moss

Recent history shows there are a lot of thoughtful folks in our community who care deeply about people, government policies and issues in a way that transcends party affiliation.

To shed light on how new state laws will affect our community, the Democratic Club of Amelia Island (DCAI) is hosting the 2023 Florida Legislative Forum at the Amelia Community Theatre (ACT) on June 26 at 5:45 p.m. (Doors open at 4:45 p.m.)

This is not a fundraising event. It is designed for all voters -- regardless of, or lack of, party affiliation -- who are concerned about how the new laws impact women, children, teachers, the LGBTQIA community, workers, public education, local control, land use, the environment and more. These laws will affect our community no matter who is elected U.S. president in 2024.

Florida House Representative Angie Nixon (D-Jacksonville) will provide the session overview. Panelists include Michelle Dillon, president, St. Johns Education Association; Jon Harris Maurer, public policy director of Equality Florida; and representatives from All Voting is Local Action and other organizations. Fernandina Beach native Suzanne Sapp-Snurpus will serve as panel moderator.

In case you’re confused about the difference between the DCAI and the DEC (Democratic Executive Committee) in our community, DCAI is a “club” with a mission to connect, inform and educate Democrats and those who support democratic values. Club bylaws don’t allow us to endorse candidates or to raise funds for candidates. To be a club member, you simply need to be a registered voter in Florida. You don’t have to be a registered Democrat.

DECs represent state Democratic Party interests at the county level, including identifying and supporting Democratic candidates for office. In Nassau County, Sheila Cocchi chairs the DEC.

To register for the DCAI 2023 Florida Legislative Forum, go to https://www.aplos.com/aws/events/june_2023_legislative_forum.

Tickets are advance purchase only (no walk-ins). Ticket sales close at midnight Friday, June 23. Proceeds cover ACT rental fees and other event expenses.

Melissa A. Moss is president of the Democratic Club of Amelia Island. You can reach her at president@ameliadems.org

Editor’s note: The Observer welcomes thoughtful commentaries when submitted. The opinions expressed in any commentary are solely those of the writer.