Suggestion for Alabama Democratic Party: Consider Embracing Different Strategies for Change
The Alabama Democratic Party (ADP) has embarked on a significant journey towards reform, with a focus on equity, inclusion, and progress. In 2019, a group of members within the party sought to change the system that did not align closely with the Democratic National Committee (DNC) bylaws. With the DNC's backing, new bylaws were implemented, creating a number of new caucuses within the organisation.
These new bylaws were designed to spread voting power more equitably among several protected groups, a move that was praised by the DNC, particularly its Black members. The DNC believes that these changes would rejuvenate the party by bringing new faces and new ideas to the table.
The new ADP leadership, including Chairperson Randy Kelley and other officers, worked diligently to ensure that the party adhered closely to the DNC bylaws, taking the party to task for its past efforts to undermine equality efforts. The results were positive, as the party began to truly represent a broader coalition of voices.
However, following the SDEC elections in 2022, the newly-elected leadership set about drastically changing those bylaws, marginalising some of the minority groups once again. This move has been met with criticism from the DNC and the general public, who see it as a step backward in the party's progress towards equality.
Despite this setback, it is important to note that there are good and decent people within the party working every day to field and train candidates, develop donor lists, and put together winning campaign strategies. There are also smart people working to ensure that the party's leadership listens to a broader coalition of voices, as established by the new bylaws.
The Alabama Democratic Party has an opportunity to show people that they are welcome and valued, that their ideas have value, and that their work is important and necessary. The party can be a counter to a party that takes pride in exclusion, discrimination, and the mistreatment of others. If the party stops fighting progress, embraces diversity, and does things the right way, letting power fall where it may, the results could be positive.
It is a shame that these people are not receiving the accolades they deserve due to the dysfunction at the top of the party. However, it is hoped that with continued efforts and dedication, the Alabama Democratic Party can once again become a beacon of hope and progress in the United States.
