The Talbot County Democratic Forum (DEM Forum) held its biennial Kennedy-King Unity Dinner on Sunday, October 12, at Temple B’Nai Israel in Easton. The event drew approximately 150 attendees, including current and former elected officials, members of the Talbot Democratic Central Committee, and the Board and officers of the DEM Forum.
Michele Dappert, President of the DEM Forum, opened the evening with a warm welcome, followed by dinner and an invocation delivered by Rabbi Jordan Goldson.
During the evening’s program, Phil Jackson, Chair of the Talbot Democratic Central Committee, presented the coveted Talbot Democrat of the Year Award to Mary Tydings in recognition of her lifelong advocacy for Democratic values, her leadership and mentorship, and her tireless work strengthening the Democratic Party at every level.
Following the award presentation, Justin Butler, Maryland State Democratic Party Affairs Chair, delivered an energetic call to action and introduced Heather Mizeur, former Maryland State Delegate (2007–2015). Mizeur offered an impassioned introduction of her longtime friend and colleague, the evening’s keynote speaker, Congressman Jamie Raskin.
Congressman Raskin’s 35-minute address was received with rousing applause. A renowned Constitutional scholar, Raskin illustrated how good governance is intended to function and reminded the audience that the framers of the Constitution not only warned against the rise of future authoritarian or monarchical leaders but also had the foresight to build safeguards against them.
Raskin shared insights into the history and purpose of several Constitutional amendments—explaining how and why they exist and how they have been undermined in recent years under the Trump presidency. His remarks were both educational and inspirational, leaving attendees motivated by his passionate call to keep the faith, hold on, stand up, and speak out to protect American democracy during these challenging times.
📺 Watch Congressman Raskin’s full speech here: https://youtu.be/UUOYeDQf2uI
About the Talbot County Democratic Forum
The Talbot County Democratic Forum (DEM Forum) is the local club for Democrats and other patriotic Americans working together to promote and defend the Constitution and uphold the Democratic values that have long served the United States—protecting civil liberties and ensuring the well-being of all who call this nation home.
Learn more at DemForum.com.
About the Talbot County Democratic Central Committee
The Talbot County Democratic Party operates at the county level as part of the Democratic Party of the United States and is led by a Central Committee whose volunteer members are elected by statute to four-year terms. The Committee serves as the governing body of the Democratic Party in Talbot County and represents the county at the Maryland State Democratic Central Committee.
Learn more at TalbotDems.org.
Carlton Turner says
Why wasn’t everyone notified about this event, I’m sorry but I didn’t know anything about it and I live right down the road from there.