Dear Salt Lake County Democrats,
As we wrap up another year of hard work, dedication, and progress, we’re reminded of the resilience and unity that define our Democratic values. The holiday season is a time for reflection and renewal—a chance to appreciate how far we’ve come and to envision the possibilities ahead.
As Desmond Tutu said, “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” Together, we’ve built that light through community action, steadfast advocacy, and unwavering support for justice and equality.
Read on to learn how you can impact an organizing year and stay informed about local politics.
How to Participate in the Legislative Session
As the legislative session approaches January 21 through March 7, supporting our Democratic House and Senate members is more crucial than ever. Your engagement can make a real difference in advancing progressive policies and holding the majority accountable. Here are three simple ways to get involved:
Know who represents you: Take a moment to look up your state House and Senate representatives. Understanding their roles and how to contact them empowers you to share your thoughts and advocate for Democratic values. Look up your legislator here.
Show up in the room: Public presence matters! Attend committee hearings, floor debates, or any events at the State Capitol. Your presence signals to lawmakers that their constituents are paying attention and care about the outcomes. Check out the legislative calendar here. In-person attendance is always best, but all committee meetings can also be attended virtually!
Join Capitol Hill rallies: Watch for announcements about rallies or events on Capitol Hill. These gatherings are powerful ways to unite with like-minded individuals and amplify our shared message. Follow our Facebook or Instagram for the latest events.
Together, we can make a tangible impact in this legislative session—one voice, one action, and one collective effort at a time.
Celebrate the Wins - Join Us at Upcoming Inaugurations
Celebrating hard-fought victories is essential to honoring the dedication and resilience it takes to win elections. Attending inauguration (or swearing-in) ceremonies is a meaningful way to support our elected leaders as they step into their roles and begin representing our values. These events remind us of the power of democracy and the importance of staying engaged in the journey ahead.
Sheila Srivastava, Ross Romero, and Natalie Pinkney - Monday, Jan 6, 2025, at 10:00 am at the Mid-Valley Arts Center, 2525 Taylorsville Blvd. Doors open at 9:30 am.
Jackson Lewis - Tuesday, Jan 7, 2025 at 5:00 pm at Canyons School Board District Office Building; 9361 S 300 E, Sandy
Charlotte Fife-Jepperson - Tuesday, Jan 7, 2025 at 5:30 pm at SLC School District Administration Building; 406 E 100 S
Erin Barrow - Tuesday, Jan 14, 2025 at 4:00 pm at Jordan Academy for Technology & Careers; 12723 S Park Ave, Riverton
Utah House and Senate Democrats - Tuesday, Jan 21, 2025 at 10:00 am
Connect with Local Organizations Doing Good
As the legislative session approaches, take action and get involved with local organizations driving meaningful change in our community. From protecting Utah’s natural beauty to advocating for immigrant rights, these groups need your energy and support to amplify their impact:
Stop the Polluting Port: Join efforts to protect the Great Salt Lake’s environment, ensuring clean air, water, and safe habitats for millions of birds. Learn more and get involved here.
Immigrant People’s Agenda: Support this grassroots movement building power for Utah’s immigrant communities and advocating for their rights.
Save Our Canyons: Help preserve the beauty and wildness of the Wasatch Mountains by supporting conservation and education efforts. Learn more at Save Our Canyons.
Together, we can amplify their impact and create a brighter future for all Utahns. Know of another local organization doing good work? Let us know! Click here to share information about upcoming events and activities from local non-profits.
Reigniting Hope through Education and Organizing
Ever wonder how it all works? Behind every campaign, rally, and election win is a team of dedicated organizers working to bring people together and make change happen. If you’re ready to dive in, we have plenty of opportunities to help you learn and lead!
Join Party Leadership: Get involved at the city level or join the Salt Lake County Democrats’ Executive Committee. These roles provide hands-on experience and a chance to shape the future of our party.
Attend Trainings: Learn what it’s like to serve as a House District officer, including the responsibilities and strategies for making a difference in your community. Save these dates:
Saturday, January 18 tentatively at 12:30pm - Q&A with Party Officers following Central Committee Meeting
Wednesday, February 19 at 6:00pm - Q&A with Party Officers at Party HQ
Saturday, March 15 at 2:00pm - Ask Me Anything (AMA) panel with the Chair, Executive Committee members, and House District Chairs at Party HQ
Key Filing Dates: Filing for House District Officer and Executive Committee positions opens on March 10 and closes on April 3. This is your chance to step into leadership and make a real impact.
At the Q1 Central Committee Jan 18, 2025 meeting we will propose May 3, 2025 as the date for the 2025 Organizing Convention, where we’ll come together to elect party leadership and plan for the year ahead.
Whether you’re a seasoned activist or just getting started, there’s a place for you in the organizing efforts that drive our movement forward. Together, we can accomplish great things!
So You Want to Run for Office?
Thinking about running for office? We’re here to help! Join the National Democratic Training Committee on Thursday, January 9th, from 1-2 PM ET for a free virtual training. Learn the steps to run for office, best practices for choosing which office to run for, and how to build the support you’ll need. This session is perfect for those considering a run but haven’t made the commitment yet. Register here: Training Link.
For local guidance, contact our Candidate Recruiting Committee at recruiter@slcountydems.com to learn more about running or becoming a campaign manager. Click here to schedule a Free Consultation with Party Leadership
Thank You, President Carter
Salt Lake County Democrats honor President Jimmy Carter for his lifelong dedication to peace, human rights, and service. From his leadership as president to his transformative work with the Carter Center, he exemplified integrity, compassion, and a commitment to lifting others.
We are grateful for his contributions and hold him and his family in our thoughts during this time.
Help Us Serve You Better
As a service organization, the Salt Lake County Democrats are here to support you. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve and navigate these challenging times together. What went well? What could we do better? How can we help you achieve our shared goals? Please take a moment to fill out our short survey and let us know how we can best serve you. Your insights will shape how we grow, adapt, and build a stronger, more united community.
In Closing…
With a new year on the horizon, we’re energized by the opportunities it brings. Let’s carry this spirit of hope into 2025 as we continue championing the most important causes. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones, volunteering, or simply taking time to rest, know that your contributions make a lasting difference.
Wishing you joy, peace, and a bright start to the new year,
Chair Velazquez
