I am extremely disappointed in one line that vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin used in her acceptance speech: "I guess a small-town mayor is sort of like a 'community organizer,' except that you have actual responsibilities."

That quote is not anti-Democratic Party, but rather anti-democracy. The fundamental idea behind community organizing is bringing people together to accomplish a goal. This is something Southern churches have been doing for decades, and the rewards of such efforts are there for anyone to see.

When you contrast Palin's quote with Barack Obama's message about where change comes from, the difference is stark: "You understand that in this election, the greatest risk we can take is to try the same old politics with the same old players and expect a different result. You have shown what history teaches us -- that at defining moments like this one, the change we need doesn't come from Washington. Change comes to Washington."

I may not agree with Obama on everything, but a party that uses a remarkable part of our democracy to belittle the other candidate does not deserve my vote. Community organizing is noble work, and if Palin and McCain can't see that, then what exactly are they taking to Washington?

David Bartholomew, Durham

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