INDIANA – The Indiana Rural Summit, a pivotal event to revitalize and enhance the democratic engagement of rural communities in Southern Indiana, has successfully launched its tour with two initial stops, garnering significant attention and participation from local citizens and candidates alike. The summits serve as a platform for dialogue, connection, and grassroots mobilization, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities within rural areas of Indiana.
Event Highlights
Jasper’s Strassenfest Parade
The inaugural event started with a vibrant presence at Jasper’s Strassenfest Parade, where over 100 enthusiastic participants, including various Democratic candidates, marched together. This parade celebrated local culture and marked the launch of the Indiana Rural Summit in a festive and engaging atmosphere.
Key Attendees:
- Jennifer McCormick: Democratic candidate for Governor who emphasized the importance of rural voices in state politics.
- Terry Goodin: Democratic candidate for Lt. Governor, who reiterated the need for equitable policies that address rural issues.
“It was a tremendous and well-received turnout by local and statewide candidates, including Governor and Lt. Governor candidates. It was an honor to host the launch of the Indiana Rural Summit with my fellow House candidates at the renowned Strassenfest Parade,” said Teresa Kendall.
This event was significant not only for its turnout but also for the visibility it provided to Democratic candidates, fostering a spirit of community engagement and political awareness.
Scottsburg Summit
Following the parade, the summit moved to Scottsburg, attracting around 80 attendees and featuring various tabling organizations.
This event was characterized by its focus on local issues, with a panel discussion that included Democratic State House Candidates:
- Jennifer David (HD 66)
- Thomas Ross (HD 59)
- Trish Witcomb (HD 69)
Moderated by Charlestown Mayor Treva Hodges, the panel addressed critical rural issues, providing a platform for candidates to discuss their visions for Southern Indiana.
Key Themes of Discussion:
- The necessity of including rural Southern Indiana in Statehouse conversations.
- The demand for access to comprehensive healthcare, affordable housing, quality education, and jobs with livable wages.
“Rural, Southern Indiana is frequently left out of conversations at the Statehouse. That must change. We deserve the same access to healthcare, housing, and education that the rest of the state enjoys,” said Trish Whitcomb.
Community Engagement and Donations
Jennifer David reported positive feedback from local organizations participating in the Scottsburg event. Many community members engaged with these organizations, leading to fruitful discussions about available services.
A noteworthy highlight was the community’s generosity, with attendees donating $248 to the Scott County Family YMCA. A local community grant will match this amount, bringing the total raised to just under $500. This act of community support underscores the summit’s collaborative spirit and commitment to local initiatives.
Upcoming Stops and Future Plans
The Indiana Rural Summit is excited to announce that Victoria Martz, candidate for House District 55, has joined the tour. This expands the summit’s reach to include 10 House Candidates across 25 southern counties, which represents 28% of Indiana. This strengthens the summit’s mission to connect with thousands of rural voters.
Next Event: Edinburgh (Shelby County) on August 29.
The summit is scheduled to continue throughout August, September, and October, with subsequent stops planned to ensure comprehensive outreach and engagement with rural communities across Indiana.
Conclusion
The Indiana Rural Summit is not just a series of events; it is a movement aimed at amplifying the voices of rural residents and fostering a strong democratic presence in Southern Indiana. With the enthusiastic participation of candidates and community members alike, the summit is poised to significantly impact the political landscape, ensuring that rural issues receive the attention and action they deserve in the upcoming elections.
As the tour progresses, it will continue to serve as a vital space for dialogue, empowerment, and community building, reflecting Indiana’s rural populations’ diverse needs and aspirations.
- Thursday, August 29th, 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. ET – Johnson/Shelby/Bartholomew @ Barn at Hamner Ridge, 6315 Hucklebuck Ln, Edinburgh, IN 46124 (hosted by candidates Michael Potter for HD 47 &Hollie Payton for HD 73)
- Tuesday, Sept. 17th, 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. ET – Harrison Co. @ Historic Corydon 133 E Chestnut St, Corydon, IN 47112 (hosted by candidate Sarah Blessing for HD 70)
- Friday, Sept. 20th, 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. ET – Brown/Monroe Co. @ Buddy Bill’s Bait Barn, 2827 E. Moffett Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401 (hosted by candidate Thomas Horrocks for HD 62, with special guest singer/songwriter Carrie Newcomer)
- Tuesday, Sept. 24th, 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. ET – Morgan Co. @ Rustic Gatherings, 1776 E Mahalasville Rd., Martinsville, IN 46151 (hosted by candidate Michelle Higgs for HD 60, with special guest singer/songwriter Rose O’Neal)
Who are the Indiana House Democratic Party candidates involved in Rural Summit:
- House District 46 Kurtis Cummings [Vigo/Clay/Owen/Monroe counties]
- House District 47 Michael Potter [Johnson/Shelby counties]
- House District 55 Victoria Martz [Franklin/Fayette/Union Counties]
- House District 60 Michelle Higgs [Monroe/Morgan/Johnson counties]
- House District 62 Thomas Horrocks [Monroe/Brown counties]
- House District 63 Teresa Kendall [Davies, Martin, Pike, Dubois counties
- House District 66 Jennifer David [Scott, Jefferson, Clark counties]
- House District 69 Trish Whitcomb [Bartholomew, Jackson, Scott, and Washington counties]
- House District 70 Sarah Blessing [Harrison/Clark/Floyd/Washington counties]
- House District 73 Hollie Payton [Shelby, Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings counties]
