Black Caucus

2013 Fall ConveningSeattle, Washington

AgendaI. Call to Order

II. WelcomeKenya T. Parham, Vice Chair

III. Chairman's Address Ra Shad Gaines, Chair

IV. Recognition of Special GuestsMontica Talmadge, DNC Woman

X. Business SessionKenya T. Parham, Vice Chair

Governing DocumentsBylaws

Mission Statement

Vision Statement

Cabinet Confirmations

Oath of Office

XI. General DiscussionRa Shad Gaines, Chair

XII. AnnouncementsDavid Madsen, Political Director

XIII. Adjournment

BylawsAmendment 1: Article 4—Election, Installation,

Removal and Vacancy of Officers; Section 5: Oath of Office

I, (state your name), of sound mind and body, do hereby promise to fulfill the responsibilities of my office, serve the administration and membership of the Black Caucus with honesty and integrity, and uphold the principles of the Young Democrats of America. I acknowledge that my actions are a direct reflection of the mission and vision of this caucus, therefore, I will uphold myself with the highest esteem and respect for my colleagues, the work that is being done, and the Black communities across the nation for whom we advocate for. 

Mission StatementThe Black Caucus of the Young Democrats of America (BCYDA)shall endeavor to stimulate in young people an earnest interest in politics and social justice in the Black diaspora in the United States. BCYDA seeks to recruit, empower, and train Young Democrats to assist in cultivating a new generation of change-agents and African-American leadership in local municipal, state and federal politics. BCYDA also seeks to reinforce the ideals of the Democratic Party, and increase the participation of Young Black contingencies in the political processes across the nation.

The Black Caucus of the Young Democrats of America shall also encourage young African-Americans to become more active and involved in political affairs, make sure that local, state and national leaders, political campaigns and the Democratic Party are attentive to an invested in the needs and issues of young African-Americans. BCYDA is focused on producing results-oriented initiatives and programming, and will extract that data to assess the landscape of young Black affairs, engagement and incorporation within the Young Democrats of America, its affiliated partners, and abroad.

Vision StatementWe, The Black Caucus of Young Democrats of America, envision an America where people of all races are able to pursue their dreams and fulfill their potential in pursuit of their destiny. We embrace the history of, and recognize the challenges that people of African descent face in our country and commit ourselves to victories in equality. We foresee a nation where Black Americans are free to define their identity for themselves and have their choices respected. We will act as agents of change to ensure our right to vote, pursue seats in the halls of power, and receive the full benefit that our citizenship guarantees. We commit ourselves to work locally, at the state levels, and nationally to advance political, cultural and social inclusiveness.

BCYDA will advocate for the disenfranchised, provide opportunities for its members and the communities where our constituencies reside, and will work diligently towards a future where a promise of America is fulfilled.

Cabinet Confirmations Ta'Sha Barber – Chaplain Bridgemon Bolger - Civic Engagement

Coordinator Javan Frinks - Logistics Director Britney Haugabrook – Southeast

Regional Coordinator David Madsen - Political Director

Cabinet Vacancies Administrative Coordinator Affinity Group Liaisons Campaigns Coordinator Communications Director Fund-raising Director Historian New Media Coordinator Outreach Director Parliamentarian PR Advisory Team Professional Development Coordinator Regional Coordinator (GL, MA, MW, NE, PAC, SC, SW) Secretary

Please Join Us!Elected Officials Luncheon

GORDON BIERSCH-SEATTLE600 Pine Street, 

4th Floor of Pacific Place Seattle, Washington 98101

11:30 AM-1:00 PM

Confirmed Attendees:Tacoma Mayor Marilyn StricklandTacoma City Council Member Victoria WoodardsTukwila City Council Member De'Sean

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