From Allie Farfel:

After traveling for almost 5 weeks learning about political and social activism and how it ties into our American and Jewish identities, it is perfect that we end our journey in Washington DC, the home of our government. I believe that the theme of this city so far has been about us becoming a part of our basic democracy.

Our first experience in DC was a perfect example of this. We attended an Illinois constituent coffee in which Senators Richard Durbin and Barack Obama addressed any and all of our questions. Being able to speak with Senator Obama, a widely respected young leader of the Democratic party, definitely showed us that our authorities will listen to us.

Our day continued at a meeting with Kert Davies of the Greenpeace organization. I was ashamed of our country when he said that our “addiction to oil” was obvious when we look at the fact that 19 million barrels of oil go into our cars every day. We then went to Chinatown for lunch and then to the National Archives to look at the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. Once again, basic democracy was demonstrated during this part of our day.

Next we spoke with Debi Kar who works with Jubilee USA. This organization advocates in order to alleviate debt in impoverished countries. Our day came to a close with a relaxing night in Georgetown.

Our second day in Washington DC was off to a good start. We met with Congressman John Lewis from Georgia. He was one of the people who spoke at the March on Washington led by Dr. Martin Luther King in 1963. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience considering that Congressman Lewis is the only person still alive who spoke at that rally. After being inspired by Congressman Lewis we spoke with Folabi Olagbaju the Director of Amnesty International. He said to us, “young people, you have power beyond your wildest imagination”. Because of democracy, the youth has a voice.

After Amnesty we met with Belinda Bulger from NARAL-Pro Choice America. Exactly one month ago we spoke with Operation Save America, a pro-life organization in Dallas. Comparing these two group’s arguments was very interesting. Following NARAL we spoke with Keith Stroup at NORML, the National Organization to Reform Marijuana Laws. Our country allows groups such as NORML to voice their opinions.

As the day came to an end, we met with Jon Lerner a political consultant for Republican candidates. We asked him our questions that we had accumulated over the course of the entire trip. Finally we attended an Orthodox service at Kesher Israel. At the end of the 2 hectic days, this was the ideal way to unwind.