Turning Texas Blue at the DFA Training Academy

Written by: Joshua Beers on Mar 8, 2007 1:47 PM EST

I attended the DFA Training Academy in Houston over the weekend because I was hoping to learn how to campaign like the experts and put that knowledge to work in the Houston area.  The DFA Training Academy was so much more though.

This past weekend, over 65 people from the Texas-Louisiana region and surrounding states attended the recent DFA Training Academy in Houston, TX - co-sponsored by the Service Employees International Union.  Attendees included local candidates for office, campaign staff, leaders of progressive organizations, labor members, Democratic Party chairs, as well as political, issue, and citizen activists to name just a few.  This diverse crowd, experienced and motivated trainers and a New Orleans style buffet on Saturday night at a local watering hole made for great times. 

We shared stories about how we became active in politics and what we planned to do with our training.  We learned how to plan a campaign, fundraise, develop a message, build coalitions, organize precincts, and manage the media. One of the great things about the experience was the time spent meeting with and talking to like-minded people who will be life-long friends and partners in our struggle to build a better community.

I would like to thank the crucial part of any training event- The Trainers. Democracy for America not only provided us with campaign and political experts with hands on experience at every level of a campaign, but also great Trainers that kept you focused and motivated with their high level of energy.  They had an ability to take potentially complicated topics and give you real tools that you can use in your efforts.

Day 1 included a general overview of campaigns and touched on all the major topics.  Day 2 included breakout sessions that allowed you to hone in on the topics of most interest to you.   I found this format to be especially helpful because of the varied interests and levels of experience of the attendees.

The DFA Training Academy was a great experience that I would recommend for both novice and experienced activists.  You will not only get great knowledge, but also meet great people from all over your region.  The DFA Training Academy is definitely a force multiplier and I plan to take the knowledge I have gained to help organize my local precincts and to help Democratic candidates get elected.  Turn Texas Blue!!!

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