As the DNC platform committee descends on Orlando today (Friday July 8th) for its full committee meeting prior to the convention in Philadelphia, some are wringing their hands about how the DNC handled this presidential primary season. Progressive Democrats of America (PDA) is so very proud to see so many friends and board members working to amend the platform. Please pitch in whatever you can to keep us organizing for progress.

Building Movement Power–PDA Stands Tall!

Our own Russell Greene will introduce the "Russell Greene carbon Tax Amendment." Russell is a tireless advocate on the climate emergency, and his amendment represents his commitment to addressing this emergency for our planet through this tax as he works on other climate proposals as well. A special favor: if you're a delegate, please contact Mike Fox to participate in our discussions and planning ASAP.

PDA advisory board member Michael Lighty of National Nurses United will introduce the single-payer Medicare for all amendment to the platform committee. There is no one better than Michael to raise single-payer into the platform language since he has dedicated his professional life to achieving Medicare for all and other paths to economic and social justice. Pam Gronemeyer, MD, of southern Illinois PDA sits on the DNC platform committee, and she is also a strong long-term single-payer advocate. Note: if you haven't already, please click here to Tell the DNC you want Medicare for All in the platform.

Jim Hightower of our national advisory board will put the amendment opposing the TPP up for debate and vote to include in the platform. It would be difficult to even imagine a better spokesperson for opposing this trade deal that so damages middle and working class people in America.

Wow, now that's an incredible line-up. We know there are also several other amendments being offered by those with strong PDA connections, and we couldn't be more thrilled. We've come a long way from that time during the 2008 platform hearings when Norman Solomon and I fought for stronger language in the healthcare plank.

For PDA, this primary has never been about one person or one issue or one way to achieve a more just society, a truly representative government, and a more peaceful world. Our inside/outside strategy is in full and powerful view this primary season and will be again in the coming general election stretch. While we are, of course, saddened that Bernie is not the presidential nominee, there is no time to waste in this struggle.

Thank you to all of the PDA family who are working so hard on platform effort, thank you to all of our 200 Bernie delegates and all other delegates in our PDA base, and thank you to those engaging in outside work to push for our progressive agenda.

Your continued support for our work is helping build a better future for all of us. If you can throw a few more dollars our way to help offset the costs of all of this incredible effort, it will be much appreciated.

Onward!

Donna Smith for Mike H, Judy, Mike F, Janis, Deb, Kim, Conor, Steve, and the whole PDA Family

P.S. We've invited delegates, activists, and members of Congress to join us at Progressive Central, The People’s Convention Monday, July 25 to Wednesday, July 27. We're inviting you too! Please click here now for tickets, tabling, sponsorships, ads, etc. Registration (per person): One day $10, All 3 days $25. Includes Light lunch and beverages. If you can't make it, please donate now to help us make the People's Convention a huge success!

Please pitch in $500, $50, $5 or whatever you can now to help support our organizing at the convention and beyond.

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