The battle cry was heard throughout Bagpipes pub here in Austin: “To Freedom!” This Monday I was asked to be the event photographer at the holiday party for Austin political activists group Texans for Accountable Government (TAG). With a crowd of raised drinks toasting their accomplishments from 2009 and goals for 2010, I was struck with appreciation for their vigilance and human compassion. Among the guests where a number of local activists and candidates for city, state, and even national offices, all with the hopes of reversing the downward spiral of a government who no longer listens to the will of the people and abuse their given powers to encroach on our civil liberties.
Personally, I believe we get what we put out into the world. And the one thing I grew to love about this group of folks is their positive energy approach and general good vibes. No pretenses, no popularity contests, and above all, no “right vs left” dogmatic ideals – just people doing what they can to make a positive difference in our communities. And I love that!!
I have to give an extra big thanks to Angela who helped out that night with the photobooth, which was the big hit of the evening. And as always, thanks to my amazing husband, Val, who knows just how to make me feel loved in a sea of faces. I was thrilled to be invited to photograph this event and look forward to seeing their future activities. Check them out if you want at www.tagtexas.org.
“We’ve got to give a little love, have a little hope. Maybe we can make it better.”
XOXO
Rita Q
ps: I’ve read about a lot of pro photographers raving about blogstomp, this AMAZING (and dirt cheap) photoshop action that helps you make quick work of getting images prepped for your blog. So, I bought it and used it for the first time on the images below. I love it!
