First off, AFC Wimbledon won 4-2 today – great start to a new season!

Next, I kind of went viral (at least for me) with my Pure joy Threads post on Tuesday. Sam Woodward, a reporter for USA Today, contacted me after seeing the post and I talked with her on Thursday. This morning, I’m one of the people included in her article about joyful, positive experiences we’ve had with Governor Walz: Tim Walz: How the ‘joyful warrior’ teamed up with Kamala Harris (usatoday.com).

Many of you know that I use a communication device or text-to-speech on my computer to help me speak. Here’s what I shared with Sam and love that she captured me so well in her reporting. Thanks Sam, for including me and my voice in this article.

What a gift

Tim Walz has gone out of his way to come and talk to me every time I see him from the first time I met him at the Organizing District and State DFL Convention in 2018.

Six years ago, when I was 20 years old, I wanted to get more involved in the political process so went to my local caucus. I raised my hand to be a delegate. The next step was going to the District Organizing Unit convention. That’s where I met Governor Walz in person the first time. I remember him coming over to shake my hand and meet me after his speech, and I felt awesome.

I caucused for disability rights and Tim Walz for Governor, and was selected to be a delegate to the State Convention. As soon as Governor Walz saw me in the hallway at the convention in Rochester, he stopped what he was doing and rushed over to greet me, by name, shook my hand, and gave me a hug. I don’t know how he does that – how does he remember everyone’s name?

I was so excited to be there and make my voice heard for issues impacting people with disabilities. We needed a Governor and legislature that protect services so that people with disabilities are able to live in their communities. Tim Walz supports disability rights, he shows up, and listens to the issues.

At the MN Harris Kick-off rally a week and a half ago, Governor Walz was genuinely excited when he saw me. He waved my mom and I over so that he could give me a big hug. He said, “Justin, was my first delegate!” The room was filled with people, we were all energized, and can you imagine how that makes someone feel, when they get noticed like this? I love my Governor and am excited for him to be our next Vice President!

Every time I’m in a room with Governor Walz, he takes the time to rush over, give me a hug, and the thing is, he never talks down to me. He treats me with respect. I think we mutually light up when we see each other.  He makes me feel that I have a seat at the table.

I’ve loved being involved in the political process where I can make my voice heard about issues that matter to people with disabilities. Governor Walz has made me feel important and that what I have to say is important. What a gift.

The image above is from a KARE 11 report from 7/28: National politics played out in MN this weekend As I always say, it’s important to show up and get involved however you can.