As the Idaho Young Democrats we are always excited to see young people getting involved in their communities and engaging themselves politically even if they aren’t of voting age. This month we have one such individual, a young man who started showing interest in politics at the ripe old age of twelve.

Ismael Fernandez is a 16 year old proud Democrat in this great state. As our young Democrat of the month he had some very interesting and insightful things to say in this interview:

How old are you?

I am 16 years old.

What made you want to get involved in politics? What was your first political experience like?

I initially got involved in politics about 4 years ago (I was about 12) when an animal cruelty bill came before the Idaho House of Representatives. I felt strongly, and still do, about abuse towards any animal. I knew it was wrong, and I couldn’t see why my legislators were having such a hard time figuring out how to vote on this. That first political experience did not go over too well.

Who is/was your greatest political inspiration? Why?

I really can’t give you one person. Both Governor Ann Richards and Congressman Henry Gonzalez (Democrats from Texas) are my greatest political inspiration. They were firm in the liberal values and principles they believed in. They had many enemies, but Governor Richards and Congressman Gonzalez almost always came out victorious.

How would you like to see young people get involved with politics?

For me it’s simple: I want to see young people vote. So many in my generation take their right to vote for granted. I would also like to see young people rally for causes they believe in. While I do believe the Democratic Party is the party of the people, I would just like to see young people look into the facts and issues, and join a party based on what THEY believe, not on what their parents believe.

What words of wisdom would you give these young people?

We are the future. I know, you hear that over and over again, but it’s true! We must get involved now. Decisions that are being made do affect us. Sure, you may believe that they don’t affect you now, but that’s just it. These issues may not affect you now, but I can guarantee you that they will affect you in the future!

As the popularity and power of the internet grows, more and more people can get involved from the comfort of their homes. What potential does this convenience have? Pros? Cons?

There is so much potential in the interweb! The positive side to this simply is the fact that we can get so much information from our phones, computers, and ipods. Unfortunately, the truth seems to be irrelevant in the internet. So many websites (Fox News) can parade “facts” as truth, and because of the nature of so many people, many in society will accept those “facts” without looking further into the story.

What are your main issues of concern in regards to the state or federal government?

Well my issues of concern on a state level are as follows: Bullying Prevention, Animal Cruelty, GOOD Education Reform, Prison and Justice Reform, Mental Health Services, and the Repeal of Right to Work. On a federal level, my issues of concern are: Common Sense Gun Control (including an assault weapons ban, universal background checks, etc.), LGBT Rights, Marriage Equality, Reproductive Rights, Foreign Policy towards Latin America and Europe, and Common Sense, GOOD Immigration Reform.

As a young person who is actively participating in the political scene, do you ever try to get your peers involved?

Absolutely! One method I use is simply talking to them about what is going on in the world of politics. That in itself can be effective. We live in a world where talking about politics is “not appropriate for kids my age” and that it’s “impolite” to talk about, which is simply not the case. I also invite them to whatever rallies, marches, and events I am invited to.

This newsletter reaches many active and inactive Democrats across Idaho. As such, is there anything you would like to say or share with these folks?

If you are an active Democrat: Good job. Continue being active. If you are an inactive Democrat: get active! The only way we can turn Idaho blue is by being loud and proud!

May 17th marks the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. And the Idaho Young Democrats are proud to announce that we will be honoring the day on behalf of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities. We believe in promoting social justice and equality for all, and will continue to do what we can to give action to our words.

The purpose of I.D.A.H.O. is to bring attention to the harm that homophobia and transphobia cause in our society, whether it be in one’s own home, school, place of employment, or one’s community. Homophobia and transphobia have many forms, such as systemic discrimination in policy, bullying in schools, workplace discrimination, abuse at home, and premeditated violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity . We believe that by working together with the LGBTQ community, it’s allies, and partner organizations, we can overcome obstacles that stand in our path as we march toward equality, and the dreams of a better tomorrow.

Internationally France has become the 14th, and most recent country to pass same sex marriage. In the United States, Rhode Island has become the 10th state to pass marriage equality. In Idaho we are seeing progress with multiple cites passing non-discrimination ordinances, even while our own state legislature fails to move on the issue.  Our victories are numerous and bring us closer to building an equal and loving community for all.

However, we must recognize that progress has come at a high price.  A rash of teen suicides have impacted not only the nation, but Idaho as well. Kids are being taught that intolerance is acceptable, and as a result bullying has increased, lives have been lost, and families have been devastated and shattered. Nationally, far-right organizations continue to profit off discriminatory rhetoric, homophobic policies, and conversion therapies that are proven not to work. Internationally on the same day France passed the gay marriage bill, #MortAuxGay translated to “Death To Gays” was trending on Twitter. In some countries being who you are is considered a capital offense.

Homophobia and transphobia are real.  We acknowledge this.  As the US Supreme Court begins hearings on Prop 8 (A proposition in California that would redefine marriage between one man and one woman, thereby excluding loving  same sex couples from entering the institution of marriage) and DOMA (The Defense of Marriage Act) we want to make clear to our members that we back same-sex marriage. We recognize that loving adults, should have the same legal rights and benefits as their  straight heterosexual counterparts. Did you know that the Human Rights Campaign estimates that same sex couples are denied over 1,000 legal rights that that their heterosexual counterparts in marriage enjoy?  We see this institutionalized discrimination as fundamentally unfair, and unjust.

In his own attempt to bring about change to the state of Idaho, Christopher Cooke, National Committee Representative for IDYD  has set out to bring I.D.A.H.O. (the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia) to Idaho.  Along with Morgan Hill, President of IDYD, and a coalition of allied organizations, and  individuals, they seek to bring change to Idaho and have launched Actupidaho.org. The website is dedicated to putting a human face on the injustices that homophobia and transphobia bring to our community, and the lives it ruins.  In his own words,  “I want to educate, organize, engage citizens across the state to stand up for equality, and have the courage and conviction not only to speak out against injustice, but to actively oppose it through progressive action.” Harvey Milk said it best, when speaking about the  future generation of gay youth. He said, “…The only thing they have forward to is hope. And you have to give them hope. Hope for a better world, hope for a better tomorrow, hope for a better place to come to if the pressures at home are too great. Hope that all will be all right. Without hope, not only gays, but the blacks, the seniors, the handicapped, the us’es, the us’es will give up.”

Follow IDYD National Committee Representative Christopher Cooke on Twitter @Cooker123 or at facebook.com/chriscooke

“I want to cultivate hope, I want my community to actively cultivate hope for everyone who shares the familiar pain of oppression.  I want that pain to hurt less.” – Christopher Cooke

Legislators to Boise Young Professionals: keep your day jobs

by Andrew Crisp @andrewcrisp - Original article at the Boise Weekly

Rep. Holli High Woodings (left) and Rep. Matt Erpelding (right) spoke to members of Boise Young Professionals on April 3.

Members of Boise Young Professionals thinking about running for political office anytime soon didn’t exactly hear a recruitment speech April 3. In fact, a handful of young lawmakers suggested their peers keep their day jobs.

“It would probably be impossible for many of you to take three months off from your job, every single year, as well as all of the meetings and things we have in the interim,” freshman Boise Democratic Rep. Holli High Woodings told BYP members, gathered in a conference room at the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce.

Woodings was flanked by fellow freshman lawmaker Boise Democrat Rep. Matt Erpelding, as well as Boise Sen. Branden Durst (a newcomer to the Senate but previous House member) and four-term Nampa Republican Rep. Brent Crane, making up a quartet of the Idaho Legislature’s youngest lawmakers.

Woodings said it’s a common misconception that Idaho’s lawmakers are well paid. In fact, it’s just the opposite, according to Durst.

“We really need to start getting a more representative citizens’ legislature,” Woodings said. “I think we do that by recognizing the barriers that prevent entry to the Legislature and start to erode some of those barriers.”

All four acknowledged their self-employment, which includes Erpelding’s job as a mountain guide, Durst’s consulting firm, Woodings’ public relations company and Crane’s alarm business.

“What I’ve observed is those who are under 40 during the last two terms are gone,” said Crane. “There’s just no way they can balance family and work and politics.”

As a result, according to panelists, policy tends to be set by an aging Legislature.

“We get paid $16,000. It may sound like a lot,” said Durst, “But when you try to go apply for a job, and you tell your future employer, ‘Oh yeah, I’m going to be gone for the first quarter of the calendar year, they say, ‘You’re not going to be an employee here.’”

Crane suggested the young professionals prepare themselves for public service early.

“If it’s something you want to get involved in, you have to have a plan,” said Crane. “I knew what I wanted to do and structured my business and schooling around that.”

In a continuing effort to reach out to young people in the community, our Young Dem of the Month is Chris Lavelle. Chris was a member of the Idaho Army National Guard for over ten years, on many occasions leading soldiers through Bosnia and Iraq. Chris double majored where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in both Criminal Justice and Political Science. He has since received a Graduate Certificate in Community and Regional Planning and is currently working on a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice. Today, Chris is the chair for the Ada County Democrats and he is “looking forward to the future of our party and kicking some ass in the process.”

It’s plain to see, Chris is a person who shows many characteristics we at IDYD like to see in young Democrats. Below, are Chris’ responses when we had a chance to interview him.

What made you want to get involved in politics? And what was your first political experience like?

I am not at all sure what my first political experience was, my family has been active in politics for many years and as such it is hard to point to a moment that started it all. My dad was probably the greatest influence in my continued political activity. He created a passion in me. My dad always brought my sisters and I with him when he participated in something, he actively engaged us in discussions and conversations and ultimately supported all of our endeavors. I became active in local politics for myself around 2006 because I was looking for a way to be more involved and well rounded.

Who is/was your greatest political inspiration? Why?

I believe that leadership and political inspiration are essentially the same, without one there would likely not be something to be inspired by. That being said, this is a difficult question to answer because I spend so much time reading about events, leaders, and leadership. I would simply say that what inspires me the most are the numerous examples we have from throughout history of ordinary people doing extraordinary things for very simple reasons.

How old are you?

I am 31 years old.

How would you like to see young people get involved with politics?

Young people need to get out and pound the pavement. Social movements, changes to governments, and laws that are written only happen after a swell of people move out of the living room and into the streets. It is well known in Idaho that the way Democrats win is by direct engagement with voters. If young people are interested in influencing or booting the old guard they need to lace up and talk with people, lots and lots of people.

What words of wisdom would you give these young people?

Every person that enters politics as a volunteer needs to remember that they are an entry-level employee. The job they are given might not be that much fun or challenging but it is important. If that person commits beyond random participation they will find that they move up very quickly and, ultimately, to a position or job that they are seeking.

As the popularity and power of the Internet grows more and more people can get involved from the comfort of their homes. What potential does this convenience have? Pros? Cons?

The obvious convenience is situational awareness. A person’s passion is easily monitored and scrutinized by only expending a few moments of time. The challenge is that we begin to have tunnel vision. With access to only the things that interest us we begin to neglect the equally important and competing issues. No one thing operates in a vacuum, the ripple effect extends beyond our interests and even our borders. A person passionate about something needs to fully understand the competing interests and alternatives to their passion before they will be the most successful.

What are your main issues of concern in regards to the state or federal government?

In Idaho, I believe that our greatest threat, to Democrats and Republicans alike, is the gross political imbalance in government at every level. Extremism can only be held in check by competing voices. Our system of government was not intended to be a reincarnation of a monarch, where one voice and perspective prevails, but that is what we have in Idaho.

As a young person who is actively participating in the political scene, do you ever try to get your peers involved? If so, how?

Sure, my friends outside of politics are often aware of my participation so occasionally, if there is something that they might be interested in, I will let them know. There are also times when we might discuss or debate a point or an issue but I make every effort to ensure I don’t offend them by criticizing their point of view too harshly. I usually point out that if they want to do something about politics they need to participate beyond simply voting. Otherwise, I try to respect the fact that they made the decision to stay out of politics.

This newsletter reaches many active and inactive Democrats across Idaho, as such, is there anything you would like to say or share with these folks?

Yes. Here in Idaho there is a community of committed individuals that are working diligently on your behalf. Opportunities in Idaho are fleeting moments and we cannot afford to be complacent or random in our efforts. If you want more opportunities you absolutely need to do your part with the one in front of us now. Movements are only effective when there is support in the ranks otherwise that leader is simply out taking a walk.

Source: Former Idaho State Chief Economist Mike Ferguson (Spokesman OpEd http://bit.ly/15LlMro)

House Health and Welfare Committee Republicans would rather go home than consider a bill that would expand healthcare coverage for Idahoans and provide a much needed boost to the Idaho economy.

All Idahoans deserve affordable health care. Keep your elected officials accountable to their jobs and their constituents by contacting your legislator.

Click on the name of the House Health and Welfare Committee members to send an email:

Rep. Fred Wood 
Rep. Christy Perry 
Rep. Douglas A. Hancey 
Rep. Frank N. Henderson 
Rep. Brandon A. Hixon 
Rep. Luke Malek 
Rep. Ed Morse 
Rep. Paul Romrell 
Rep. John Vander Woude
Rep. John Rusche 
Rep. Susan B. Chew

Other contacts:

Speaker of the House
Senate Pro Tem
Governor

Idaho House Minority Chief of Staff and IDYD Treasurer Jennifer Martínez at her Statehouse office. Martínez is one of seven people serving on an interim committee to create a Latino Caucus.

Original story posted by Idaho Press Tribune – by Mike Butts

The House & Senate State Affairs Committees have agreed to hold a joint listening session for the Idaho Human Rights Act Amendment, in which legislative sponsors, business, clergy, and community leaders will speak to the importance of amending the Human Rights Act.

Although testimony will not be allowed, your presence is very important in showing that every Idahoan deserves to live a life with dignity.

Please click on the Facebook events link below to RSVP that you will be attending this event! Please share the event link and invite all of your friends and families.

Event info

 Wednesday, March 20, 2013  8:00am

Capitol Auditorium Room – Idaho State House

Update on S. 1108: This bill to weaken the initiative process continues its slow way through Senate State Affairs. The committee heard from two speakers today and adjourned. It will likely continue Wednesday–will confirm as soon as I can.

Keep contacting legislators on this! It will get a little drowned out by some social issues in the news, but has very big consequences for Idahoans who value the constitutional right to petition their government.

-Dean Ferguson | Communications Director, Idaho Democratic Party