Holding Out For a Hero

What constitutes a hero? There are some people who idealize their favorite NBA player or hold a newly famed singer in high esteem. For me, it takes a lot more than a game winning three pointer or having the ability to attract an audience with your voice. Webster's dictionary does its best to portray the qualifiers of a hero in our society but there still exists the question of what the true meaning of what it takes to reach hero status. Courage, strength, intelligence, dedication, integrity. The list of adjectives are seemingly endless. Heroic action is not designated for prince charming coming to the rescue. In fact, most of my role models in life have been women who have had to fight to have their voices be heard in the political world. Congresswomen Gabby Giffords embodies all of the qualities I hold true to a hero. She is the kind of me who I look at and aspire to accomplish even a fraction of what she has done with her life.




One of the most memorable moments during my time interning at EMILY's List was when timing worked out in my favor to place me here while the organization hosted their annual We Are EMILY event. Every year they invite donors and political figures who have been supportive of the mission of EMILY's List to honor an exceptional women in politics. There was no better candidate to recognize at this year's ceremony than Gabby Giffords. Twitter, Facebook, and the EMILY's List website spread the word about the memorable event which would be highlighting an even more memorable woman. So it didn't take me too long to respond "yes!" to the email sent out to EMILY's List interns requesting help to staff the event.



The political environment can at times be very hostile and full of conflict. We often discuss during class the lack of compromise that is so lacking in Congress. A sense of compassion and brotherhood/sisterhood is often absent from the members of our political arena. The intensely polarized political realm was put aside for that night, however. Despite the bickering and debate that takes place among politicians most days, the Grand Hyatt event space was filled only with an overwhelming sense of community, pride and respect. It was a reassuring feeling to be a part of the political world so often not portrayed on the television or in newspaper articles. The We Are EMILY event was not about advancing a political agenda into the media spot light or putting forth a stump speech of an up and coming politician. This night was about honoring Congresswomen Gabby Giffords for her past work in politics and look towards her recovery to future accomplishments. It was meant to celebrate a woman who wouldn't admit defeat- a true hero to anyone who aims to make it in the crazy world of politics.
 
-Erin Ryan