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A week from today Barack Obama will make history and BlogHer will be there.
I'm headed to DC to give BlogHer's a look at what is going on in and around the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States.
As a democrat I am thrilled, but as a women I must admit I'm over the moon. Working with both campaigns throughout the election I gained some insight into our President-elect that I believe makes the new Ms. magazine cover true:
An Obama campaign staffer shared with me a very telling tidbit one day long ago during the election. I was pushing staff to get me an interview with Michelle Obama, I wanted to discuss women's issues. I wanted to discuss motherhood and working, balance, family leave, Roe, affordable daycare...all those things women tend to deal with.
Of course I assumed Michelle was a perfect fit for this interview, seeing as she has dealt with all these issues on a personal basis and on a practical basis with her husband dealing directly in policy. A natural fit for Michelle to talk to BlogHer...made sense.
But what I got back from the staffer was something I wasn't expecting. To paraphrase, I was told Michelle did not want to be the face of "Women for Obama" or it's spokeswoman....why? Because her husband was just a big a feminist as she was, and just as involved in the day to day struggles as she was, and HE should champion these causes as the man running for office, while she did her part as well.
It seems Michelle firmly believed she was not alone in her balance and family issues and entirely believed her husband understood and was on top of it. He needed to be a feminist and should be one.
Of course it was then BlogHer got it's interview, not with the First Lady to be, but with our President-Elect.
As Eleanor Smeal writes,
"...he ran on the strongest platform for women's rights of any major party in American history. Feminist Karen Kornbluh, the platform's principle author, ensured women's rights, opportunities, advancement, and issues were addressed throughout the historic document."
And with women in mind, I head to DC.
While in there I plan on attending as many women focused events as I can muster and bring you reaction, feelings, and expectations. I'll be talking to women at the Emily's List luncheon on Sunday, January 18th. I'll sit down with Progressive women at the NetRoots Nation party on Monday, January 19th, and I'll bring you this BlogHer's reaction from Capitol Hill on Tuesday, January 20th as Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States.
There are events all over to celebrate this historic event from a day of service as described by Michelle Obama
to "un"official concerts, parties, and neighborhood balls.
Join me here at BlogHer as I report back on everything I see and hear. I'll take on those crowds and broadcast live when possible. I'll blog with YOU in mind and with women at the center of one of the most historic events in our lifetime.
Erin Kotecki Vest also blogs at Queen of Spain blog
