WS Chronicle

While addressing nearly 400 fellow Democrats, Cherie Beasley, who is looking to become the first Black woman to represent the state in the U.S. Senate, said during the November election they must stand together to fight for democracy and the state of North Carolina.

Beasley’s address was the highlight of the Forsyth County Democratic Party’s annual fundraiser held at Legacy Stables and Events. Beasley said the theme of the fundraiser, “Reunite and Ignite In Defense of Democracy,” was perfect for Democrats heading into election season. 

“I love that. It’s the perfect theme for this group of people who understand the magnitude of democracy and why it’s so important that we must stand together to fight for this state and this nation,” Beasley said.

Beasley, who is a former Chief Justice of the N.C. Supreme Court, is running for the seat which was vacated by Senator Richard Burr. If elected in November,  Beasley says she will fight to lower costs of prescription medications, work to create good-paying  jobs, and expand access to affordable health care.

During her address last Saturday evening, Beasley also discussed the need to protect constitutional rights and the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in which the Court ruled that the Constitution of the United States conferred the right to have an abortion.

“As we think about the importance of this moment, not really frankly for ourselves, but for the next generation, and why it’s so important that we come together fully committed and unshakable to stand for what’s right. To make sure the next generation doesn’t have fewer opportunities and certainly not fewer rights,” Beasley said. 

When discussing her opponent in the race for the senate, Congressman Ted Budd (R), Beasley said the better choice is clear. 

She went on to discuss Budd’s decision to vote against the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill, which is expected to bring thousands of jobs to the state, and against lowering prescription costs.

“I know that we all grew up with the values of hard work and faith and integrity and justice, but my opponent, Congressman Ted Budd … actions speak louder than words,” Beasley continued. “We all know actions speak louder than words and he does not speak for us. In fact, we know that this Budd is not for you.” 

For their hard work and dedication to the Forsyth County Democratic Party, during the fundraiser Dr. Virginia Newell and Delmas Parker were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards. 

Dr. Newell is well known throughout Forsyth County and the state as a champion for equal rights. After receiving her doctor of education degree, Newell joined the faculty at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) where she worked for more than 20 years. 

In 1977 Newell and Vivian Burke became the first Black women ever to be elected to the Winston-Salem Board of Alderman (now City Council). Newell served for 16 years on the council and was known as a champion of racial equality, fair housing, and economic justice.

Also an educator, Delmas Parker taught for many years in different schools across North and South Carolina. 

Since joining the party in 1986, Parker has served the Democratic Party in many capacities, including precinct chair. While living in Ashe County, Parker served as the chair from 1990 until 1995 and the Fifth District chair from 1997 until 2005. In 2005 he was elected vice-chair of the N.C. Democratic Party, where he served three terms. 

After the speakers and awards presentations, the evening ended with dancing to the music of Envision.