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Washington, D.C. – The Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) unveiled their core principles and priorities at a reception on June 28 on Capitol Hill. Billed as an alternative to the Bush administration's "Ownership Society," the CPC's "Progressive Promise" outlines an action agenda under the broad principles of "fighting for economic justice and security in the U.S. and global economies," "protecting and preserving civil rights and civil liberties," and "promoting global peace and security." Read the Progressive Promise. And Progressive Democrats of America helped make it happen.
There we were, on this wonderful night, standing beside Congressional Progressive Caucus co-chairs Rep. Lynn Woolsey and Rep. Barbara Lee before a gathering of 25 Congressional Members. PDA shared the stage with dozens of nationally recognized activists and advocates, many of them long-time friends. These passionate and devoted individuals, leaders of our nation's most dedicated and effective political action groups, had been called upon to give voice to your wishes. PDA Board members Rev. Lennox Yearwood (Hip Hop Caucus), Vice Chair Joel Segal (Conyers' staffer), David Swanson (co-founder of AfterDowningStreet.org), and PDA Board Member and author Joe Libertelli were in attendance. PDA Senior Political Advisor Steve Cobble (co-founder AfterDowningStreet.org), PDA Maryland Coordinator Mike Hersch, Gael Murphy and Medea Benjamin (United for Peace and Justice, Code Pink) and a number of local activists were present as well.
PDA presented last, winding up the evening by addressing the nature of the critical relationship between citizen and government, and the role Progressives play in driving debate at the Congressional level. We talked about relationship building, the kind that results in a 20-year protracted vision rather than just a series of unrelated and misunderstood actions and events. We talked about the issues plaguing our country: war, financial insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, voting fraud, environmental abuses, and the shameful lack of accountability that characterizes today's Republican Party.
When we ended, we received a huge and resounding round of applause from a house reunited, one that is much closer to sharing a common understanding, and that is committed to working to achieve the same dreams. It was a night of celebration of our solid achievements and unforgettable triumphs, a time of well-deserved recognition for the hard work and guiding stewardship of the leaders of our many fine progressive organizations.
I've been asked numerous times how PDA differentiates itself from other groups. I would argue that the number one difference is the priority we place on relationship building. PDA's efforts all happen within the framework of what we call an inside/outside strategy. Heat in the streets, media campaigns, demonstrations, petitions, and other shows of public intent are linked to decision-makers on the inside. This strategy is having an impact.
Too often, elected officials fail to connect their own actions to the public's sentiments. PDA is helping to fill this void by carrying our messages directly to the individuals in power, opening channels of communication and forging bonds that span decades. Since its birth, PDA has worked hard to build new alliances. This effort first began in Ohio when PDA helped connect Rep. John Conyers with the Green Party. It continued when we helped organize with Reverend Jesse Jackson and Rainbow/PUSH in the streets, and with Rep. John Conyers in the Halls of Congress. Today, PDA is helping develop an inside/outside strategy within United for Peace and Justice. For the first time, UFPJ will organize a Lobby Day in Congress following the major mobilization on September 24 (details below).
As we have seen, the Progressive Caucus leadership is reaching out to PDA for answers, for direction and for a way to tap into the energy and passion of new Progressives. They need us, and we need them. Inside the party, Progressives like Representatives John Conyers and Lynn Woolsey are reshaping the thoughts and attitudes of their colleagues, and gaining momentum on tough issues because of PDA's support. Outside, the Democratic grassroots calls on PDA to strategize, to organize, to articulate – and to lead one of the most dynamic and powerful movements in our nation's history.
Progressive Democrats of America, just eleven months after its inception, is entering a new era. Until now, PDA has focused primarily on "the work": planning and scheduling meetings with officials, attracting new members, growing the website and developing ready response capabilities. We're number one when it comes to challenging the Democratic Party leadership: The Ohio Challenge. The Bankruptcy Bill. Downing Street. The Out of Iraq Campaign. We've gained respect. We've built a reputation for refusing to "go away and shut up," and for tackling the biggest, most corrupt political-industrial-military machine of all time. We've grown fast and we've grown strong. With your active support. And now we are bringing our forces to bear in the CAFTA fight. We need to stand together to protect workers' rights, save family farms, protect the environment, and halt the disastrous spread of the woefully failed policies of the North American Free Trade Agreement.
The CAFTA vote happens July 18!
PDA members, led by Political Director Kevin Spidel, are working to block CAFTA. We think we can beat it with your help. PDA is organizing a huge phone and email campaign. Please: TAKE ACTION ON CAFTA NOW!
July 23 "Downing Street Memo" Anniversary Events
Saturday, July 23, is the three-year anniversary of the Downing Street Memo. Amazingly, millions of Americans still haven't heard about it! We must insist that our Congressional representatives and the U.S. media investigate and report the truth about the Downing Street Memo and hold the Bush administration accountable. Click here for local and national events you can attend.
September 24-26 "Three Days of Action for Peace and Justice" in Washington, D.C.
Organized by PDA and United for Peace and Justice
More than two years after the illegal and immoral U.S. invasion of Iraq, the nightmare continues. We believe it's high time Bush and Congress are held accountable for the deaths, the destruction, the lies, and the toll on our communities. Mark your calendars and plan on attending this massive mobilization in Washington, D.C.
End the War on Iraq! Bring the Troops Home Now! Click here for more information about this event!
Sat. 9/24 – Massive March, Rally & Festival
Sun. 9/25 – Interfaith Service, Grassroots Training
Mon. 9/26 – Lobbying Day, Mass Nonviolent Direct Action and Civil Disobedience
Thank you for all you have given – and continue to give – to PDA. In less than two weeks we will begin to celebrate the one-year birthday of PDA. We could not have done it without you.
Thank you.
In gratitude,
Tim