Participate

Every four years, Democrats Abroad reviews and revises a platform that  encompasses the views of Democrats living abroad on topics that impact us specifically, as well as those that impact our country. It is not intended to be a list of “what should be done’ resolutions. Rather, it reflects our political philosophy, or democratic valuies, and our aspirations. We avoid making detailed policy recommendations, since circumstances and tools may evolve, but instead articulate foundational principles that will remain consistent for the next 4 years. (Introduction to the DA 2020 Platform).

The Platform Committee coordinates a bottom-up process, starting with a Plank Poll of the membership and participation in Kitchen Table Talks, which are run by local committees. 

The process for 2024 began in February but is still in the drafting process.  The Caucus has been asked to revise and update the section on LGBTQ+ rights, which we are doing now.   We will be adding language about the free expression of gender identity, the right to access gender-affirming care, anti-bullying measures, and the most basic right of equal treatment under the law.  We are also reaffirming our commitment to marriage equality, to immigration rights for same-sex spouses and their children, to affordable health care, and to the ERA.

The complete DA Platform will be ready approximately two weeks prior to the Global Convention in Costa Rica, where it will be approved by convention delegates.   

If you would like to contribute thoughts, ideas or participate more actively as a member of the LGBTQ+ Caucus, please contact the Caucus Chair.

Democrats Abroad will send 21 delegates to the Democratic National Convention, August 19-22, 2024. Eight of these delegates are our Global Chair and Vice Chair plus our 6 DNC members.

The remaining delegates are selected during our three Regional conventions (3 per region) during the last week of May, or at our Global Convention on May 31st, 2024.

Democrats Abroad aspires to send a diverse slate of delegates to the convention, reflecting the rich panoply of Americans abroad.   To that end, members of the LGBTQ+ Caucus--that's  YOU!--are encouraged to apply.

The application process is currently open until April 19.   If you're interested, please review the Delegate Candidate Briefing which explains the entire process in detail, and on this Delegate Information Page. You'll need to submit a written application to the International Chair via THIS FORM no later than April 19.

Four years ago, more than 200 people ran to be a delegate, but only 9 can be selected, so in addition to completing the form, you should plan to "campaign" to persuade the electors that you are great candidate.  In addition to the delegate workshops already held (links to which can be found in the Candidate Briefing), two more are planned on or about April 13, so please watch your email for an announcement.  These workshops help you understand what a delegate does, and how to campaing to become one.

Absolutely any American who lives abroad is eligible to become a delegate,  You do not have to be a "somebody" within the organization to run--and to win!