Guest Post: Volunteer Martha Corcoran - “I Cannot Be Silent”
I’m Carleigh’s neighbor, Martha. I believe it’s up to all of us to use our talents for good and for change, myself included. After I retired from a career as a nurse and school teacher, I learned to paint. I find inspiration for my paintings in the world around me.
Carleigh and Martha discuss the kind of world they want their children and grandchildren to grow up in.
When Carleigh told me she was running for Congress, I said, “You’re kidding me!” I was thrilled because I knew that we need Carleigh in Congress, not just for the people here in Hampton, but for everyone in this district and across the country.
The more I learn about Carleigh, the more I identify with her.
You see, when Carleigh listens she really listens, and she always makes sure to ask how other people feel about things. Carleigh knows how to serve people, in local government and here in our neighborhood. She is so smart, and I respect that. She is a scholar with a masters and a doctorate from Harvard, and then she went on to teach there. That’s my kind of girl! I love that she is so smart.
Carleigh is caring, and kind, and those adjectives are sorely lacking in our politicians. I like that she is focused on the kinds of things that matter to people like me—people who care. She cares about the climate, she cares about children and their schools and families.
I’m a former teacher and nurse, and Carleigh believes, like I do, that healthcare is a basic human right. I was so excited to learn that in grad school Carleigh had a part-time job as a home health aid. As a former nurse, I know how important it is that we elect leaders who know what it’s like to care for people who need that kind of help.
I also love that Carleigh cares about affordable childcare. I have two grandchildren that I help care for, and my son, who is a firefighter paramedic, and my daughter-in-law who is an educator; they couldn’t afford childcare, so I provide childcare for them at no cost. I know that not everyone is that lucky, and so I love that Carleigh is fighting to make it possible for every family to afford childcare.
Carleigh inspires me. As the Trump administration’s actions and rhetoric have become more disturbing, I’ve felt compelled to be more outspoken too. Alongside my artwork, I’ve started posting what I call my why “What Now? Window”— a factual display meant to remind our neighbors to stay engaged and informed.
Martha’s windows adorned with messages of accountability and hope.
Turning my frustration into action has given me hope — and Carleigh is a big part of that hope. She listens, empowers others just like me, and leads with the kind of integrity and clarity we need right now.
I worry about the future, but I have hope because of people like Carleigh.
- Martha Corcoran, Hampton
Would you like to get involved in Carleigh’s campaign? An event with your friends and neighbors can take so many forms: coffee and conversation, making homemade buttons, an gathering in your living room, or a meet up at the local library. Get in touch: VOLUNTEER SIGN UP
