Many seniors are distressed about the state of our democracy, but the members of SAGE at Rose Pointe Independent Living have found community and fun in supporting democracy and patriotism
By Etta Bucholtz – community reporter
There have been many dramatic changes in the federal government since January. Some citizens may find these changes “just what they wanted,” but others, decidedly, do not.
Many older citizens have already been through a World War and many other smaller wars. They grew up at the end of the Great Depression and were schooled in civics. Many of these seniors are frightened by the changes they see— frightened for themselves, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were proud of the democracy that they and their family members had fought, and sometimes died, to protect.
In response to this shift, some residents of Rose Pointe Independent Living decided they wanted to “do something.” They formed a group they named SAGE, a double entendre for their collective wisdom and an acronym for Seniors Action Group Empowers. Encouraged by the support of other like-minded individuals, the group now numbers 30 seniors who meet twice a month.
Since 2024, the group has undertaken several important civic activities. During that year’s election, they obtained the voter rolls from Wisconsin and wrote personal letters to non-voters encouraging them to exercise this important democratic right. They have sent letters on various issues to Minnesota representatives. Twice a month, weather permitting, members of the group rally at the corner of Larpenteur and Lexington Avenues with signs reminding their neighbors about the importance of democracy.
This group has invited speakers to Rose Pointe, including David Schultz, noted political analyst from Hamline University, economics professor Agapitos Papagapitos from the University of St. Thomas, Peggy Doi, whose Japanese parents were incarcerated during WWII, and Great Decisions speaker Henry Berman. The group also discusses selected TED Talks each Monday.
The group is open to anyone who wishes to participate. “There is room for folks of all ages wanting to support our democracy, our constitution, and our beloved United States of America,” stated one member.
For more information on meeting times and upcoming speakers, please contact Carol Moen at csmoen34@gmail.com.
The smiles tell it all: this group can make a difference, do positive work, and still have fun!
