Michelle Obama Was Heckled? She Handled It Just Fine...

Let me preface this post by saying that I'm a HUGE Michelle Obama supporter.  So, my comments here will be biased based on my love for her.  If I offend anyone... *sips smoothie*   

The last few years for me politically have been bittersweet.  I watched as the country elected (and re-elected) its first African American president.  A great, unforgettable moment in history, right?  Yes!  Since this post is about Michelle Obama, I won't rant about my unwavering support for President Obama.  But, just know this...I think he's pretty dope. 

Now here's the "bitter" in the bittersweet part:  The Obamas have endured more ridicule, criticism and down-right hate than any other First Family I've ever known.  And through it all, they've been incredibly polite - to say the least.  I've often wondered, how in the !*@% do they do it?  I'm not sure if I could be so "nice." 

Michelle Obama... Over the past 4+ years, like millions of people all over the world, I fell head over heels for her.  She's smart, beautiful and so gracious.  I could go on and on...  A breath of fresh air!  

A few days ago, Michelle Obama was heckled by a woman as she spoke at a Democratic fundraising event.  She responded quickly by basically stating her intolerance for that kind of behavior.  Michelle approached the heckler and told her that she would leave: "Listen to me or you can take the mic. You all (audience) decide. You have one choice."  

The audience of course, wanted Michelle to stay.  She stayed and finished her speech.  The heckler?  She was escorted out of the event.

Some critics have come out and said Michelle's Obama behavior was inappropriate.  What?  Ummmm yeah--No.  The heckler's behavior was inappropriate and rude.  Michelle merely exerted herself as a guest speaker and First Lady.   
       
The PR me thinks she handled this perfectly.  Her reaction was transparent and real, wrapped up in the most respectful, unapologetic packaging ever.  She wasn't defensive.  She didn't raise her voice.  She didn't become irate.  She doesn't have to.  Why?  Because she's Michelle Obama, First Lady of the United States.  Respect it.  

Girls Run The World & Rock The Vote!

DISCLAIMER -  I was born and raised in Florida.  Besides the weather, the beaches and Disney World, there's something else we're known for.  Politics.  It's deep rooted in the culture down there.  No matter your age, race, economic status, church affiliation...whatever!  If you reside in the Sunshine State, you're about that political life.  (And not just during a Presidential election season.)
                                       
I'm not an emotional person.  I don't anger easily.  I don't have a combative spirit.  And I'm very, very careful about picking my battles.  Which brings me to my next point...

I checked my Facebook page a few days ago.  It was late at night, but people were still online posting...and venting. Pretty common, right?  Well, something, or should I say someone caught my eye.  I'll call her "Kelly."  Kelly was frustrated and upset about the number of political posts on her timeline.  She was mad and totally "OVER IT." (Yep, she posted it in all caps).  Kelly wanted Facebook to return to that wonderful, blissful utopia that features snapshots of food, obnoxious quotes and sappy relationship updates.  Ahhhh...Facebook.  Gotta love it. :)

Any-who.  I'm always surprised to hear a person say they're not "into" politics.  Completely blown away and disappointed when I hear a woman say it.  The conversation usually goes something like this:

Friend:  I don't like politics.  I don't get it.  I don't follow it.  

Me: * blank stare *

Friend: I hate politics....blah, blah, blah.

Me:  Girl, what?  Do you know that these politicians (mostly men) are out here making decisions about our reproductive rights?  Passing laws about our health care choices...  Hellllloooo - our issues are at stake!

Listen.  Beyonce says "Girls Run The World."  And I believe it.  As women, we've made some amazing strides over the last 20 years, but we have a long way to go.  And to get there, we have to be engaged in the political process.  We shouldn't be comfortable sitting on the sidelines.  We can't afford to "get over it."  We have to get into it.  

There's no question about it, this Presidential election will be a close race.  Will female voters be a key factor? Absolutely.  Our impact is critical and yes, we will play a pivotal role on November 6th.  

To women like Donna Brazile and Maria Shriver....and me, politics isn't some dry, boring, cold place reserved for older men in nice suits.  It's the freeway to empowerment.  It's a place where our thoughts and ideas can help change lives.   
So, the next time you hear a woman diss politics, talk to her about the candidates and the issues.  Help her understand.  And politely remind her of all the women and men who made sacrifices, so that we--women could have a seat at the table.  And then grab a microphone, turn up the video below and...Rock. Out. :)