LETTER FROM THE CHAIR – JANUARY 2023.
By Julia Kennedy Beckman, DGTDO Chair
Year in Review – DGTDO had a very successful fundraising and campaigning year in 2022, resulting in the rousing success of many of our Democrats in the November elections. We made history by electing the first woman as DuPage County Board Chair, first Asian Americans and first African American to the County Board. We used our funds wisely, making office space, printing and mailing available to many candidates and the DuPage County Democratic Party.
At the Holiday party, we honored our all around go-to person, Sue Sitton. We also thank all who knocked on doors, phone banked, sent postcards, hosted and attended candidate meet and greets and delivered/picked up signs. DGTDO contributed to an unprecedented Democratic victory in DuPage County and Illinois, covering 2/3 of our 156 precincts.
And just this week, the Illinois legislature and Governor came through for us with the long overdue ban on assault weapons and other safeguards against gun violence. In addition, they passed further legal protections for those women seeking abortions from out of state and for the doctors providing their care.
What can we do to top that success in 2023?
Well, let’s see — oh, more elections!! Democracy can be exhausting! April 4 will be Election Day for local non-partisan offices — city and village councils, park boards, library boards and school boards. These elections are more important than ever this year because of the rise of hate groups who have been harassing these boards and councils.
It is not DGTDO’s practice to formally endorse or contribute to candidates in this nonpartisan election, but this year, especially, we encourage our PCs to support and work for candidates who share our values. We will also invite candidates to appear at our meetings. Just this week these candidates appeared: Mayor of Downers Grove, candidates for village and city office in Downers Grove and Darien, for District 99 and 86 school boards, and for library board in Darien. We will welcome others who wish to speak at our February and March meetings as well. Those who are supported by our members may leave literature and host days of action at our office.
My goal for DGTDO in 2023 is to grow the organization to be ready for the demanding 2024 election which will be here before we know it. At our January meeting, we presented a budget which will guide us through the year and help garner the resources we’ll need. In addition, next week a committee will begin building a strategic plan. I’d like to add and build on these committees as well:
- Youth Outreach
- PC Recruitment
- Fundraising
- Volunteer Coordination
- Community Outreach Events (including non-fundraising, ie blood drive, food drive)
- Tech for meetings
- Communications
Of course, committees don’t function without PEOPLE. You will all be important for our success in 2024. Please think of how your talents and skills can contribute and fill out the volunteer form on our website or go to the form HERE.
Let’s make 2023 another year full of accomplishment!