|
Labor Caucus
YOUNG DEMOCRATS AND
LABOR ACTIVISM
Given the economic challenges faced
by many people under 35, including ongoing reductions
in health benefits, a continuing trend towards contract
work and the growing gap between the haves and the have-nots,
it is more crucial than ever that the Young Democrats
of America (YDA) strengthen relationships with the AFL-CIO
and labor leaders across the country.
The struggle for social justice is
the shared core of Democratic Party values and labor
activism. Especially among today's Young Democrats,
it is vital that tomorrow's political leaders be trained
and influenced by today's labor issues. The minds, hearts
and passions of today's Young Democrats are ready to
fight for workers' rights, and it is time to build and
strengthen the partnership between labor and YDA.
The bitter fruits of anti-worker policies
directly impact today's under-35 generation. As issues
such as part-time work, health care coverage, collective
bargaining and outsourcing continue to affect the lives
of our workforce, we need to educate younger Americans
entering the workforce on the importance of labor and
Democratic Party activism. A fundamental foundational
linkage needs to be established.
The YDA National Leadership and the
YDA Labor Caucus look forward to forging a stronger
partnership with labor by educating Young Democrats
across the country on labor-related issues, and by providing
resources for them to bring idealism and action into
their state and local party structures. Labor's issues
are a natural springboard for youth activism. Labor's
resources can provide the organizational stability necessary
to grow a new generation of labor-friendly Democrats.
YDA is excited about the opportunity
that this partnership can bring in building a foundation
of understanding and activism that will protect the
rights of workers into the 21st Century.
Officers:
Joe McNearney (NY), Chair
chair@labor.yda.org
Michael Safcsak (WV), Vice Chair
vicechair@labor.yda.org
Krista Rapson (MI), Secretary
secretary@labor.yda.org
Paul Casali (NY), Treasurer
treasurer@labor.yda.org
Julie Tuohy (IL), Parliamentarian
parliamentarian@labor.yda.org
|
