First "Stand Up For Creativity!" Candidate/Organizer Training Day Inspirational For All

January 22, 2005 - Twelve inches of blowing snow couldn't keep 40 artists, educators, organizers and creative professionals from spending the day learning how to translate their skills and values into political action. We gathered at the Bailiwick Theatre in Chicago to launch the Creative America Organizer/Candidate Training Program.

Over 50% of the attendees were women. The youngest was 20, the oldest early 60's. White, black, latino, straight, gay and representatives of the performing arts, writing, educational, organizing and marketing professions were present. It was an amazing day of inspiration and fellowship.

Some comments:

"THAT WAS THE BEST $20 I'VE EVER SPENT!" [we charged $20.06]

"Our experience today was energizing and exciting and EXACTLY what I was looking for -yes, yes, let's re-stock the depleted political talent pool with some of our own!"

"Motivational, engaging, energetic & entertaining/"

"Felt empowered and informed"

"Feeling of community...especially artists who sometimes are isolated"

"THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING IN US"

"I want to thank you again for all the hard work and preparation that went into organizing yesterday's event at the Bailiwick. The confidence you and your guest speakers have in artists' ability to become social leaders is very heartening. I came away from the day with a lot to think about, some decisions to make, and more research to do. I feel as if a creative, spiritual gauntlet has been thrust at my feet."

"This was a profound learning experience"

Read an attendee's account of the day on his blog...

Read an attendee's response, an essay - "The Artist as Politician."