A Moment of Healing and Belonging for Wyoming Democrats

For Laramie resident Artemis Langford, the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago marked a significant moment of healing and belonging. Raised in a staunchly Republican household, Langford had felt isolated and angered by the political climate in Wyoming. She vividly remembered the frustration she felt during Barack Obama's 2009 inauguration, a stark contrast to the joy she experienced at the convention, surrounded by like-minded individuals.

"It’s been such a joy to meet so many wonderful Democrats at this oasis, this awesome meeting point," Langford said, expressing her gratitude for the sense of community she found amidst the throngs of Democrats at the convention.

Navigating a Sea of Red

Wyoming presents a unique challenge for Democrats, a state where registered Democrats make up a mere 11% of the electorate, outnumbered by Republicans by nearly 8 to 1. The convention offered a temporary escape from this reality, allowing Wyoming Democrats to bask in a shared political ideology and express themselves freely.

Lorraine Saulino-Klein, another Wyoming delegate, echoed Langford's sentiments, emphasizing the power of shared purpose and positive outlook that permeated the convention atmosphere. "If you can’t appreciate this experience, you shouldn’t be here because it’s powerful to be around all these people who have a common goal, [who] have a positive outlook, who want to do some good for everybody," she said. "It’s jazzy."

A Rare Opportunity for Self-Expression

For many Wyoming delegates, the convention offered a much-needed respite from the constant scrutiny and potential conflict they face in their home state. Vickie Goodwin of Douglas, who experienced firsthand the physical and verbal abuse directed at her late husband for his gender expression, described the convention as a place of belonging and acceptance. "I’m not afraid to be a Democrat in Wyoming, but it’s kind of nice to be [at the DNC] and feel the energy surrounding everything here," Goodwin said. "It’s a real sense of belonging."

The Wyoming delegation, despite its small size, made its presence known at the convention. Allyson Harvey of Ranchester noted the delegation's boisterous nature, often drawing attention to their Wyoming origins. "Us Wyoming people tend to be a little bit louder," Harvey said. "We go [on a bus], and somebody turns around and goes, ‘I knew it was you guys! I knew it was Wyoming!’"

Sharing Wyoming Values with the Nation

While the convention offered a platform for unity and self-expression, it also provided an opportunity for Wyoming Democrats to present their unique perspective and values to a broader audience. Erin O’Doherty, Vice Chair of the Wyoming Democratic Party, used the convention to learn about other rural states and their challenges, while also highlighting the similarities.

State Rep. Michael Yin (D-Jackson) emphasized the importance of representing both the shared values of Democrats nationwide and the specific values of Wyoming Democrats. "My goal as a delegate is to not only reflect the values that all Democrats share across the country, but also bring forth what are Wyoming values and Wyoming Democrats’ values that we can bring to the nation," Yin said.

The convention, in essence, provided a space for Wyoming Democrats to not only experience a sense of belonging but also to share their perspective and values with a wider audience. It offered a much-needed respite from the political landscape they face in their home state, allowing them to connect with like-minded individuals and express themselves freely. The convention served as a powerful reminder that even in a state dominated by a different political ideology, the values of Wyoming Democrats are vital and worthy of being heard on a national stage.

Embracing the Blue in a Sea of Red

For many delegates, the convention represented a rare opportunity to express themselves openly and authentically without fear of judgment. "In Wyoming, sometimes you want to say something out loud, and then you think, ‘Wait, I don’t want to offend anyone,’” Harvey said. "I’m like, ‘I’m here. I don’t have to be calm. I can be who I am.’"

The 2024 Democratic National Convention offered a space for Wyoming Democrats to heal, belong, and connect with a broader community, reminding them that they are not alone in their beliefs and values. The convention served as a powerful reminder that even in a state dominated by a different political ideology, the values of Wyoming Democrats are vital and worthy of being heard on a national stage.