New York, August 11 – Wednesday night the New York State Young Democrats (NYSYD) hosted “Young Dems After Dark”, a fundraiser to enable the organization to implement programs that will channel the energies of young Democrats to make an impact in the fall campaigns. The event brought together over 100 young Democrats from around the state and elected officials to connect with one another and build momentum for the upcoming elections.
Frieda Menos, President of the NYSYD said, “I am thrilled to see so many young people here supporting their fellow Democrats this election year. It is vital that young Democrats become involved especially during such a critical point in our nation’s history. Our demographic can really make the difference in crucial races around the country and right here in our home state.”
The young professionals, Democrats and activists gathered throughout the night at Via Bistro in downtown Manhattan to hear special guests and elected officials speak about the importance of becoming involved in the political process. The event kicked off with a speech by NYC Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum who encouraged the crowd to use their youth and energy to move the democratic agenda forward this election season.
“The level of civic and political engagement of the NYS Young Dems is tremendous and is so desperately needed right now. As the Founder and Chair of SHOW UP New York, which is focused on increasing the level of civic engagement among young people and people of color across New York State, I was honored to have participated in the Young Dems After Dark event, and I look forward to continuing to work with the NYS Young Dems to help make our great state better than ever,” said Leecia Eve, former candidate for Lieutenant Governor and founder of SHOW UP New York.
Other Democrat speakers included New York State Senate Deputy Minority Leader Eric Schneiderman—introduced by State Senator Diane Savino as the Senate’s future Majority Leader, Democratic Senate Campaign Committee Chair and Senator Liz Krueger, Assemblyman Karim Camara, Rockland County Council President Chuck Lesniak, as well as NYC Council Members Leroy Comrie, Eric Gioia, John Liu, and David Weprin from Queens. The audience cheered at Senator Savino’s call to take back the State Senate from the Republicans. State Senate candidate Brian Keeler energized the crowd by highlighting the importance of political participation and citizen journalism, which he attributed to Ned Lamont’s victory over Senator Joe Lieberman in Connecticut.