Jefferson County Democratic Party Holds Truman Day Dinner

L/R – Linda Lawson, Will Brummett, Edna Langley
Photo Submitted by Edna Langley

The Jefferson County Democratic Party held its annual Truman Day Dinner on Saturday, May 3, at Carson-Newman University’s Stokely Memorial Dining hall. Party Chair, Linda Lawson, welcomed all those in attendance and Dr. Michael Fink followed with a thoughtful and inspiring invocation. During dinner, guests enjoyed lovely dinner music provided by Ms. Belen Hernandez, violinist. Following dinner, Ms. Lawson recognized local Democratic officials in attendance and those currently seeking political offices. Ms. Lawson led the group in celebrating Democratic events which occur throughout the year, a few of which are: monthly Dining with Democrats luncheons, Adopt-a-Highway project along Highway 92, and providing a $500 scholarship–The Barbara Holt Scholarship–for a graduating high school senior. Ms. Lawson then introduced Mrs. Edna Langley, Party Vice-Chair, who shared some interesting highlights from the life and presidency of President Harry S. Truman for whom the annual event is named. Upon completion of her remarks, Mrs. Langley then introduced the keynote speaker for the evening, Jefferson County’s own Mr. Will Brummett. Will graduated from Jefferson County High School in 2009 as valedictorian of his class. Having received a scholarship with the renowned Niswonger Scholars program, Mr. Brummett then spent the next four years studying at Elon University, majoring in Religious Studies and minoring in Political Science and Nonviolent Studies. While at Elon, Will became one of three national finalists for the prestigious Harry S. Truman Scholarship. Will currently works as the Logistics Coordinator for the Bonner Center at Carson-Newman University. Mr. Brummett focused his remarks for the evening on the topic: “The Long Road Home: A Millenial’s Journey to Returning Home to Jefferson County and the Democratic Party.” He shared that the Appalachian region has long been plagued by a growing exodus of educated young people who leave the region to find “success” outside of their home region. Similarly, the local politics of Jefferson County and East Tennessee have also been experiencing an exodus of young people leaving official political party affiliations, especially those who used to identify with the Republican Party. In his talk, Will told his story of what it is like to go against the tide of both exodus narratives. He offered his listeners an encouraging word and vision about how young people not only are returning home, but they are returning and yearning for political ideals that more often align with the Democratic Party. Mr. Brummett’s remarks were well-received and greatly appreciated by all. The events of the evening were an inspiration to everyone in attendance.