Lasting Change Starts By Listening First

Tamesha Fikes

Vice Chair of Allen County Democratic Party

The future of Allen County isn’t written in stone—it’s written by us. Every election, every ballot, every voice matters. And when more of us participate, our community grows stronger, fairer, and more reflective of who we are.

In the 2024 general election, only about 57% of registered voters in Allen County cast a ballot. That number tells us something important—not that people don’t care, but that we have more work to do in building connection, trust, and opportunity in our democratic process.

This is not a crisis—it’s a call to action.

I believe that when people are heard, they’re more likely to participate. And when communities see themselves reflected in their leaders, they’re more likely to get involved. That’s why the Allen County Democratic Party is focused on listening and lifting up new voices—because the best ideas often come from the ground up.

We’re bringing the party to the people.

This year, we’re launching a county-wide listening tour, making stops in neighborhoods across Allen County—from New Haven to Waynedale, Leo to the ’05, and everywhere in between. We want to hear directly from you—about your hopes, your challenges, your ideas for a better tomorrow. These conversations will guide how we support candidates and shape our platform moving forward.

Because lasting change starts by listening first. Our first stop on this tour will be in Woodburn to talk to rural voters about how to best represent their needs and concerns.

Growing our democracy means growing participation.

Voting should feel less like a chore and more like what it truly is: a powerful act of community. That means helping people register, understand the issues, and get to the polls. Whether it’s offering a ride on Election Day, hosting a voter education event, or simply checking in on a neighbor—every effort makes a difference.

When we make voting easier, more welcoming, and more relevant, people show up. And when they do, the outcomes reflect the real values of our county.

Representation starts with recruitment.

We also know that democracy works best when leaders come from the communities they serve. That’s why we’re actively recruiting candidates from all walks of life—teachers, nurses, union workers, small business owners, young people, and community advocates. You don’t have to be a career politician to run—you just have to care deeply and be ready to serve.

If you've ever looked at your local government and thought, “That’s not me,” we want to change that. You belong. Your voice is needed. And we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Here’s how you can be part of this movement:

Register to vote—and help your friends and family do the same.

Show up for local elections. They matter more than many people realize.

Volunteer on Election Day or with the local party.

Attend a stop on our listening tour and share what’s on your mind.

Consider stepping up to run—or help us find someone who should.

Stay connected. Join the Allen County Democratic Party and be part of the change.

Visit allencountydemocrats.org to find upcoming events, tour stops, and ways to plug in.

Allen County is full of talent, compassion, and ideas. Together, we can make sure our government reflects that energy. Let’s keep moving forward—with hope, with action, and with each other.

Let’s build the future we all deserve—starting today.