Members Urged to Help Set Platform of California Democratic Party

CFA members are encouraged to run to be an Assembly District delegate to the California Democratic Party. The application closes on January 8, 2025.

We will continue to dedicate our electoral and legislative work to eradicating anti-Black racism and ensuring access to quality public education for any and all Californians who want it. Known as the Assembly District Elections Meetings (ADEM) elections, delegates in their home districts play an important role within the California Democratic Party. These delegates have the opportunity to shape the party platform by participating in the statewide democratic endorsement process for Constitutional Officers, Congress, State Senate, and State Assembly races, as well as statewide ballot measures.   

“ADEMs are the California Democratic Party’s best-kept secret on how grassroots activists and volunteers can shape the direction of the state party. There are a plethora of delegate spots available every two years that influence the party platform, resolutions, and endorsements,” said Kevin Hayakawa, CFA Channel Islands member and CSU Channel Islands Assistant Professor. “On a personal level, becoming a delegate opens opportunities to travel up and down the state and network with equally passionate advocates from different backgrounds. We delegates represent our communities and make their voices heard through our votes.”

As we head into the next several years of the Trump administration at the federal level, it will be more important than ever that educators and labor union members are well-represented within the California Democratic Party.

“I enjoy running for the Assembly District Election Meetings (ADEMs) because it gives me a chance to connect with other democrats in our large rural district. It is easy to lose sight of how many other dems are in our red district until the ADEMS. At a time when dems are looking for ways to feel hopeful, this is an excellent opportunity!” said Susan Green, CFA Chico Treasurer and Chico State Professor.

Interested CFA members can visit the 2025 ADEMs website to view more information, timelines, and register to run as a candidate and/or register to vote in the ADEM elections. “In order to create and effect change within the Democratic Party it takes inside and outside organizing,” said Theresa Montaño, CFA Northridge Assembly Delegate and CSU Northridge Professor. “I know that sometimes it’s difficult to negotiate or understand the Democratic Party. It can be extremely frustrating, but so much of what determines the direction of the CSU and higher education is legislative. It is important for us to be there to exercise our right to loudly proclaim our social justice agenda among Democratic Party activists.”