Boxford Democratic Town Committee

The Boxford and Georgetown Democratic Town Committees together hosted a movie and discussion series beginning with a screening of The Ground Truth on Friday, March 23 at the Georgetown High School Auditorium, with about 25 people in attendance, and followed by a unique event Saturday, March 31 at the Boxford Community Center.  Approximately 30 people attended this second event, a discussion on the Iraq War billed as a “Citizens’ Circle”, and yes, all participants physically sat in a circle to have a face-to-face conversation about their thoughts, feelings, and reactions to this war.  People of all ages attended, including at least one teenage boy who came with his father.  Many towns besides Georgetown and Boxford were represented as well, including Topsfield, Middleton, and Ipswich.

The discussion was mediated by local attorney, Anthony Adamoupolos with most all voices agreeing that the war was a mistake and that the United States’ troops should come home.  There were; however, many differing viewpoints on how and when the troops should be removed from Iraq.  Interesting discussion also ensued about the role of media in the public’s understanding of the war and issues surrounding it.

The event was videotaped by Brad Sweet, and can be seen on Boxford’s local cable outlet (channel 10).   U. S. Rep. John Tierney was aware of the event and had planned to participate in the circle discussion but ended up having to miss it due to last minute travel plans that could not be changed.  His office has since asked for a copy of the tape for the Congressman to review.

Through both events, the Boxford and Georgetown Democratic Town Committees have given our citizens opportunities for civic engagement about one of the most important national issues of our time on a local and personal level.  And our citizens are responding!

The Dems in the 1EM made a real impact in this election. Boxford, which in 2002 was literally the Reddest Town in the state (highest % vote for Mitt Romney), saw its Democratic vote increased by 54% in this election over 2002’s. In fact, all the towns in the district saw dramatic increases — the district’s Dem vote overall increased by 50%.

Elsewhere in the 1EM, the district as a whole went for Deval, winning the plurality in seven towns. In 2002, not only did the Senate District go for Romney but so did all 16 towns.