When Ralph Nader ran for president in 2000, I was made aware of the Green Party. I had been a follower of Nader for decades. He was instrumental in the passage of the Clean Water Act, the Freedom of Information Act and other legislation. Through Public Citizen, he shed light on many issues and educated the public on civic responsibility.

I circulated a petition and collected 100 signatures to put Nader on the Pennsylvania ballot. It was my first action in electoral politics other than voting. I learned of the Green Party values of democracy, social justice, non violence and environmental protection. I became a Green.

Green Party of Pennsylvania
https://www.gpofpa.org/

For Immediate Release:
June 28, 2020

I am a Green because the Green Party continues to fight for these issues. The Green Party started the Green New Deal, while our candidates did not necessarily win electorally. Co-opted by the Democrats, the Green New Deal is a big part of the political conversation today.

I am a Green because the Green Party continues to fight for our democratic rights. With the help of good lawyers, the Green Party has challenged the Pa Department of State and the Legislature and prevailed in several cases including reducing the signature requirements for our candidates. Right now a settlement between Jill Stein’s campaign and the Commonwealth is being challenged because the state did not provide bona fide paper ballots.

Jay Sweeney is a Green residing in Wyoming County. He has served as chair of the Green Party of PA and has run for office several times including for Auditor General, PA Representative and PA Senate.

How about you? Why are you Green?

Green isn't just about tree-hugging. Being Green is a commitment, a way of life. Being Green takes guts and stamina when you're blamed for George Bush and Donald Trump. We're a hardy bunch who know the facts and cannot be swayed. We're also a gentle bunch who love not only the environment and it's creatures but all the people in it, and we don't mind standing up for their right to peace and justice. Not a bad thing to be, Green. What is your personal story that brought you to the Green Party? It may have been a circuitous route or a simple dawning. It doesn't matter -- short, long, in between, or simply leaning Green -- please share it with all of us.

For more information or to submit your story, please contact Gayle Morrow.