3rd DignityUSA Regional Event a Resounding Success

By Pat McArron, President, DignityUSA

Over 50 persons, from four progressive organizations, participated in the DignityUSA"We Shall Not be Silent" day-long conference, held October 12, 2002, in San Diego, CA. The conference was co-sponsored with Dignity/San Diego and Call to Action-San Diego.

People came from all over the west coast to participate in this historic event. Participants traveled from as far away as Hawaii, Washington, Massachusetts and numerous cities in California.

Local Dignity chapter president, Tom Kirkman, opened the day with a very moving prayer. Following an extremely well received keynote address from Marianne Duddy, Executive Director, there were three outstanding focus sessions provided by Call to Action, Catholic Worker and PFLAG.

The luncheon was generously provided by the local chapter of Call to Action.

The traveling history documentary of DignityUSA was a moving experience for everyone, and for the first time included film footage of our founder, Pax Nidorf.

Our DignityUSA membership meeting was well attended and provided an excellent opportunity for dialogue.

The closing liturgy was a perfect ending to a very inspirational day. After the liturgy, 20 participants continued the celebration with dinner at a local seaside restaurant in San Diego.

On the day following the conference, there was a meeting of the DignityUSA National Convention 2003 Committee.

Fund Raising Gathering

On the evening prior to the conference, there was a fund raising dinner with guest Marianne Duddy, DignityUSA Executive Director, at the home of Pat McArron, our national president. Nearly $3000.00 was raised.

Muchas Gracias to all of our donors (angels) that evening.