◄ Back to Driving Force, Fall 2014
By Colby Martin
Must the "Song Remain the Same?"
I trust there are many Led Zeppelin fans among our SEMA Action Network (SAN) forces other than me. Classic rock aficionados themselves, my colleagues in Washington, D.C., recently integrated the song title into an article about the current political climate. Given its context and timing, the piece personally resonated with me. Here is an excerpt:
"The mid-term elections are around the corner, and at no time in recent history has Washington been so divided. Sound familiar? Those words were printed just four short years ago. The times have changed, but the song remains the same. Voters are fed up with Washington."
Continuing the rock 'n' roll theme, 'banging the same drum' can easily cause both player and listener to tune out. What if the energy poured into dismissing the government was redirected? In an ever complex and fast-paced world, there are many missed opportunities to start a positive momentum in legislatures everywhere. Many of these methods aren't very difficult or time-consuming. Given a dedicated effort, there are significant ways to realistically safeguard our beloved automotive pastime as we experience it now and in the future. This very issue of Driving Force contains valuable insights into harnessing several available resources.
For example, hobby-friendly lawmakers, such as West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell, can't navigate the road alone. Let these legislators and their staff members hear your thoughts about current topics throughout each session. Offer legislators a ride in your vehicle for duty in a local parade. Invite them to your club's car show as honored guests or even judges. As Delegate Howell explains in this issue's cover story, working constructively with government officials is the cornerstone to establishing a mutually-meaningful relationship.
Support "feel good" bills that recognize Collector Car Appreciation Day. Legislation like this presents a chance to build bridges with lawmakers in your own backyard. Seize the goodwill of our hobby's "holiday" by encouraging the adoption of a similar effort in your community using the SAN-requested U.S. Senate Resolution as a guide. As you'll see elsewhere in this issue, several state and local-level jurisdictions have picked up on the spirit, too. After all, lawmakers really enjoy passing positive legislation!
Stay involved in the political process year-round. This November, prepare for and participate in the upcoming elections. First, register to vote if you haven't yet done so. Research the candidates for public office to identify those that might have a soft spot for the hobby. Once in office, hold your legislature accountable by responding to and sharing the SAN's Action Alerts. Spread the word whether the issue fits within your particular automotive interest or not. Forward the e-mail to friends, family, club members and others in your state. Take advantage of modern technology by posting the messages online using social media, web forums and other channels to quickly reach fellow enthusiasts. Every Alert is posted on the SAN's Facebook and Twitter pages, so feel free to repurpose these items!
Given that most legislatures are adjourned for the year, representatives are in their home districts and have more time to meet casually with their constituents; make the most of this opportunity. It is our responsibility to see that future generations have the same chances we've had to experience the special joy that cars provide.
-IGNITED WE STAND!