Grand Opening Speech by Cynthia Burton, chair of the DEC

Welcome, and thank you for joining us as we celebrate the grand opening of our Democratic Party office.

Today is more than opening a physical space. It’s about strengthening our commitment to democracy, to fairness, and to building a future that works for everyone — not just the powerful few.

This office will be a hub for organizing, for listening, and for action. It will be a place where volunteers come together, where ideas are shared, where campaigns are built, and where our community’s voices are amplified. It represents our belief that democracy is strongest when people show up, speak out, and stand together.

To our volunteers and supporters: this space belongs to you. It will be powered by your energy, your dedication, and your commitment to the democratic process.

This would not have happened if it wasn’t for the generosity of the late Jim Stege. Jim donated a large sum of money stipulating that it be used for a Democratic Presence in Downtown Palatka. It was one of Jim’s final wishes. I know if Jim is looking down this afternoon, he would be proud we are all together working for real change. It was his belief, as well as ours, that change will happen when communities organize and citizens engage.

Thank you for being part of this moment. Together, we will continue the work of building a more just, more equitable, and more democratic future.

It’s time to get to work.