Social Activist “Granny D” is Coming to Vero Beach

Have you heard of Granny D? Her real name was Doris Haddock. She was a New Hampshire woman who walked across the continental U.S. beginning in January 1999 at the age of 88 to advocate for campaign finance reform. Her trek took 14 months during which she covered over 3,200 miles. Doris began her political activism in 1960 when she and her husband successfully campaigned against planned hydrogen bomb nuclear testing in Alaska, saving an Inuit fishing village at Point Hope. She died in 2010 at the age of 100.

Her story is being brought to life by actress Barbara Bates Smith and musician Jeff Sebens in a play titled “Go, Granny D!” Smith summons that granny with the straw hat proclaiming across the U.S. that “Corporations are not people! Democracy is!” Smith has performed for many Unitarian Universalist and Quaker congregations. Sponsors of her nationwide tours include League of Women Voters, Move to Amend, 350.org, Physicians for National Health Care, California Clean Money Campaign, among others.

Since the Supreme Court decision of Citizens United v. FEC, the role of money in politics continues to be an important issue.

The Social Justice Steering Committee of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in collaboration with Democratic Women of Port St. Lucie and Indian River Democrats will present the hour-long production “Go, Granny D!”

When: Saturday, April 29 at 7:00 PM

Where: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.

Cost: A suggested donation of $10 per person will be gratefully accepted to cover costs.

Rose Lewis, League of Women Voters wrote: “Such a delightful reminder of Granny D’s wonderful work in getting big money out of politics. Her message is SO needed.”

Sylvia Shih, Monterey [California] Peace and Justice Center wrote: “…. It was an inspirational play, with that Can Do spirit—a call to action for people young and old.”

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is located at the corner of 27th Avenue and 16th Street. It is handicap accessible and has ample parking. The Fellowship’s Fair Trade Corner will be open one hour prior to the event.