It was 29 degrees outside 900 East 33rd Street, the Weinberg Center Y, the former home of the Baltimore Colts football, and the Orioles Baseball.
“I and I”, as the Jamaicans would say, along with a host of others were there to have breakfast with Donna Bazile, the country’s premier African American political analyst. This was part of the 37th annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King jr., benefiting Y programs for at-risk youth.
Maryland Senator Ben Cardin, urged attendees to “rededicate ourselves to the legacy of Dr. King”.
Ms. Brazile, proud to announce her age, 52, fought the tears. She recalled at 8 years old, when she learned of Dr. King’s death; with parents: mother a maid, father even though a decorated veteran, only a janitor. Her parents were poor, and living in New Orleans (Deep South), yet they successfully raised 9 children, straight “through college”, she proudly remarked.
The theme at breakfast was, “Inspiring Civility in the National Political Discourse”. Donna Brazile is a devout Catholic, “I still attend mass”, even though she has some issues with some beliefs. She reflected on her life of perseverance (civility), and from whom she drew strength (Dr. King, 83 years, had he lived).
In the Q&A session, a senior, former employee for BG&E gave notice to Republican candidate for President, Newt Gingrich, not to touch her Food Stamps.
Perhaps, Dona Brazile should adopt as her mantra, one of the things she said, “It is not what they call you, but it is what you answer to”.
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