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For information on each session: See session catalog

Effective Listening

Liz Erickson

Track: Captains, Leaders

Abstract: In this training, we ground ourselves as listeners. In a recent study, 78% of the United States population indicated they were highly effective listeners, but only a quarter of the people polled could repeat back what was shared. This training focuses on the ability to listen for the underlying values that people try to convey when they speak, and how to build a connection based on shared ideas and beliefs. This is essential for any effective organizing work we do this year.

How to Advocate for Sensible Gun Laws

Ellen Ginsberg, Lorraine Meier

Track: Issues

Abstract: On average, 96 people in the United States fall victim to gun violence each day. This session will focus on how to advocate for the reforms needed to prevent tragedies like the one that occurred in Parkland, Florida in February, as well as to stop the gun violence stemming from domestic violence, suicides, and accidental shootings that make up the majority of gun deaths in the United States.

Leading Demonstrations and Rallies

Stephanie Hibbert, Catherine Klein, Liliana Soroceanu, Barry Thornton

Track: Captains, Leaders

Abstract: Protests in the street are critical to any real positive change, all the more so for what it will take to drive out the Trump/Pence regime. What is the best time, place, and manner to get your message out to the world? This course will teach you how to galvanize a powerful social movement through mass protest. Street agitators can make an enormous impact. We will discuss why permitted protests are important and why and how you can fight for your permits. Non-permitted protests are also important and you will learn why. We will also discuss how to maintain a peaceful, safe demonstration.

The panel will also discuss how to plan and execute a rally with a Member of Congress (MOC), including details on preparing for the rally, building well researched agendas, getting in touch with the office and scheduling the meeting. We’ll discuss how to reach out to the community to include a diverse group of constituents, how to get them to be active participants, how to research pending legislation and voting records, and how to use resources and experts to prepare. In addition, we will discuss the importance of post-meeting debriefing and sharing the experience with other local/national activists. Holding rallies and lobbying your MOC is an important tool for progressive change.

Major Voter Databases and Campaign Tools #

Gary Brown

Track: Tech, Captains, Leaders

Abstract: PDI (MOE), NGP VAN, and NationBuilder are the three major voter databases and associated access software available through the DNC, unions, and major activist groups. They can manage voter, donor, volunteer, and membership data for election strategy, communications, and analysis, providing automated fundraising, phone banking lists, canvassing route maps, and much, much more. Focusing on MOE, because that's the official database of the California Democratic Party, this overview, suitable for both campaigners and technologists, discusses the basic capabilities of these software packages, their access to voter lists, coordination among user groups, and the legal considerations and costs for using them in campaigns. (Founded in 1987 and based in California, PDI has built the most comprehensive voter file in California, supporting organizations such as the CDP, DCCC, Labor, and progressive non-profits. It is currently expanding to support progressives in all 50 states.)

Media Narrative and Social Media

Deepak Puri and Sarah Hardwick

Track: Leaders, Tech

Abstract: We'll show attendees how they can collect grassroots video clips, using the examples of how people feel about mass shootings & gun violence. Speakers will then explain what is a psychographic profile and how it's based on a person's values, and how one figures that out. In closing, we'll then discuss how you have to talk in relation to their 'values'.

Update on CD 10

Lucia Nuñez

Track: Regional Races

Abstract: Hear updates on the field program in California's 10th Congressional District. What are local activist groups and the Democratic Party doing regarding the race? How might the voter contact programs change moving forward? What are the various ways to be involved in this race as an individual or group leader living outside the district? This session is ideal for activists and organizers who are looking to get involved in CA-10 or who are already involved and wish to hear the latest developments. There will be an opportunity for Q&A.

Update on CD 21 and CD 22

Jennifer Halsing, Mary Trounstine

Track: Regional Races

CD 21 and CD 22, two potential red-to-blue congressional districts in the San Joaquin Valley south of San Jose and surrounding (but not including) Fresno, are ripe for a Democratic victory, but only if we work hard. This panel discussion will focus on the issues important to voters in the districts, the groups working to win a blue victory, and what you can do as a volunteer! Come with your questions; we expect a lively Q&A.

Voter Registration and Tabling

Susan Pfeifer

Track: Volunteers; Captains

Abstract: Visibility at public events is an excellent means to attract new volunteers, promote activities of your organization, and to register voters. There are several methods that fall under the term “Visibility”: Tabling, Canvassing, Walking around with clipboards, and setting up Voter Registration tables at events. This session will share handy tips on “Tabling,” including how and where to set up as well as best practices on how to register voters.