DMO Resolution in Support of Statehood for Washington, District of Columbia

WHEREAS, the District of Columbia is the only political and geographic entity within the United States of America whose citizens bear the responsibilities of citizenship, including taxation and Selective Service registration, without sharing in the full rights and privileges of citizenship through voting representation in Congress.

WHEREAS, at more than 700,000 residents, the population of the District of Columbia is already larger than two states (Vermont and Wyoming) and comparable to that of several others including Alaska and Delaware.

WHEREAS, more than 11,000 D.C. residents currently serve in the United States armed forces, and since World War I more than 200,000 D.C. residents have served our nation in that way; and yet these citizens have no voting voice on the Congressional decisions regarding war and peace.

WHEREAS, the residents of D.C. pay more in federal income taxes than 22 states, but have no voting voice in Congressional deliberations on how their tax dollars are spent.

WHEREAS, the courts and the laws which govern local decisions affecting the residents of D.C. are controlled by Congress, but the citizens of D.C. have no voting voice in Congress.

WHEREAS, the unprecedented violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6 dramatized the dangers to the residents of D.C. from having no authority over its own National Guard units in preparing for and responding to extraordinary threats to public safety.

WHEREAS, Washington D.C. is a historically Black city, and if admitted as a state would be the only plurality Black state, raising the appearance that the unique resistance to D.C. statehood is related to our shameful national history of unequal treatment of Black and other Americans of color.

WHEREAS, the elected representatives of the people of Washington D.C. have repeatedly petitioned Congress for admission as the 51^st state.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Democratic Municipal Officials supports addressing this injustice of “taxation without representation” for the citizens of Washington D.C. by admitting the District of Columbia as the 51^st state of the United States of America.

THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that members of Democratic Municipal Officials join in this support through personal advocacy and encouraging their local jurisdictions to adopt resolutions of support for D.C. statehood.

DMO Statement on Bessemer, AL Unionization Efforts

Democratic Municipal Officials (DMO) strongly supports the right of all workers to organize and collectively bargain with their employers.  DMO joins other Democratic leaders across the nation in commending Amazon employees in Alabama for working to win union representation there.

“The union representation vote going on now in Bessemer, Alabama, has unusual national significance,” said DMO President Derek Green (Philadelphia, PA City Council Member).  “As we begin to emerge from the COVID pandemic, we find that rapid growth of the home deliveries industry has made it an important new frontier for the protection of workers’ health, safety, and economic security.  The strong organizing work in Bessemer also boosts hope for an improving labor climate in states that have historically not been friendly to workers’ rights.”

The DMO Alabama State Chapter chair confirmed the importance of this effort in his home community.  Bessemer City Council Member Jesse Matthews has been DMO’s “source on the ground” for developments in Alabama.  Workers at the local Amazon regional fulfillment center are voting now until March 29 on whether to approve the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union (RWDSU) as their bargaining agent.

“It is important for our community to have workers’ voices heard in dealing with issues like workplace safety and job security.  Union representation and the collective bargaining process help ensure that concerns are addressed in ways that benefit workers, employers, and our community as a whole,” says Council Member Matthews, a key longtime DMO leader.  Council Member Matthews represents Council District 6 in the City of Bessemer, which is also the physical location of the Amazon distribution center there.

“We at DMO will continue to closely follow these historic developments in Bessemer,” said DMO Labor Council Chair Angela Rogensues (Warren, MI City Council Member).  “We wish the organizing workers there great success, and we look forward to supporting the workers and Amazon in reaching a fair and just agreement afterwards.”

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ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND, BESSEMER, AL CITY COUNCIL MEMBER JESSE MATTHEWS:
Council Member Matthews is the President Pro Tem of the Bessemer City Council, a former member of the Board of Directors of the National League of Cities, a member of the Executive Committee of the Alabama League of Municipalities, and a member of the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, as well as a past Chair of the Alabama League of Municipalities.  In his professional career, Council Member Matthews is a 36-year member of IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers), and is a strong supporter of workers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain.  Council Member Matthews in his role as a local elected official was invited by Amazon local representatives to hear and discuss their perspective and concerns.  He reports a cordial and frank conversation at the meeting.

DMO Statement on the Shootings in the Atlanta Area

Statement from DMO President Derek Green on behalf of Democratic Municipal Officials

“Our hearts go out to the victims and families of this week’s tragic shootings in Atlanta. Racially motivated violence is especially heinous, as it harms not only those directly impacted, but the wider community who is reminded that such violence can occur at any time. We call for justice for the victims, and for a just society where no one lives in fear that they will be tomorrow’s headline.

The assailant selected his targets because they were women, and because they were members of the AAPI community. As local elected officials, it is our constant duty to build cities where all our residents feel safe and free from all forms of bigotry.

This crime would not have occurred without a climate where racial hatred is stoked against members of minority groups, and where hateful individuals have easy access to firearms. Keeping firearms out of the hands of violent individuals must remain a key feature of our commitment to public safety.”

Savannah, GA Mayor Van Johnson

“We continue to be horrified at the recent acts of hateful violence directed towards Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the Atlanta-area and across the country.

Hate is immoral and hateful acts are illegal. I condemn both, and Savannah continues to stand in support of our AAPI neighbors and friends.”

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Statement from Asian Americans Advancing Justice.

Mayors Against Illegal Guns on the link between Guns and Violence Against Women.

Resources for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence.

House Democrats just passed the American Rescue Plan. The bill now moves to President Biden’s desk, a huge victory for his Administration and the American people. This is the much needed COVID response that Americans voted for, and Democrats have fought for.

How you can celebrate

1. Post on social media about what the passage of the American Rescue Plan means for your city. Be sure to tag @NationalDMO and use #AmericanRescuePlan.

2. Send DMO your stories about how the ARP will help your constituents and city. Let President Biden know what this historic bill means to people who desperately need it.

3. Publish an op-ed in your local paper. Make sure your city knows to thank Democrats for the passage of the American Rescue Plan. Even today, many people don’t know all the ways this bill will improve their lives. Advertise our victories so that everyone knows to thank a Democrat!

What’s in the American Rescue Plan?

Local governments will receive $130 billion in assistance from the American Rescue Plan. Another $500 million is dedicated to water security grants, an essential aspect of COVID-19 relief that DMO has been calling for in our own water security initiative.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Nils Robbins
Tel: 202-770-8053
Email: Nils.Robbins@nationaldmo.org

BENSON HONORED AT NATIONAL MUNICIPAL OFFICIAL CELEBRATION

Detroit Council Member given award for exemplary leadership at Democratic Municipal Officials’ National meeting

Detroit, MI, March 9, 2021 –

Detroit, MI Council Member Scott Benson received the Susan Burgess President’s Award for Exemplary Leadership last night during the Democratic Municipal Officials’ (DMO) “Oh So Blue” Celebration. Named in honor of the late Charlotte Mayor Pro Tem and DMO President Susan Burgess, the award honors one member of DMO for their outstanding service to the organization.

DMO National President and Philadelphia Councilman Derek Green presented the award to Benson.  “This spring, we recognize a DMO whose leadership has made the difference in bringing DMO into the future. He has guided our organization with prudence, keeping an even keel during an incredibly trying few years. He leads by example, setting new goals for the Board of Directors while being the first to fill them himself. He has done an incredible job bringing on new members to our Advisory Board, and successfully concluded a strategic planning process that will make DMO even mightier.”

Benson was joined at the event by several of the previous recipients of the Susan Burgess President’s Award, including Spokane, WA Council Member Candace Mumm, Los Angeles, CA Controller Ron Galperin, and Rome, GA Commissioner Wendy Davis.

Typically held in person during the National League of Cities (NLC) annual Congressional City Conference, this spring the DMO Celebration was held virtually on the Remo interactive platform. Mayors, council members, and other local elected Democrats comprising the membership of DMO gathered for a few hours of conversation, interspersed with short remarks by VIP guests. Kicking off the event was White House Deputy Director of Political Strategy and Outreach Erin Wilson, speaking to local officials about the Biden Administration’s plans for Building Back Better. DNC Chairman Jaime Harrison headlined the event, participating in a conversation on how DMO members can engage in the work of the Party alongside ASDC President Ken Martin, DMO President Derek Green, and new DMO Board Member and Columbia, SC Council Member Tameika Isaac Devine.

Democratic Municipal Officials (DMO) is the DNC Association for municipal elected officials who personally identify as members of the Democratic Party. The organization holds three seats on the DNC, and advocates for the thousands of local elected Democrats across the United States.

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For more information, please call 202-770-8053 or email Nils.Robbins@nationaldmo.org

DMO Welcomes Incoming Chair Jaime Harrison and New DNC Leadership

On behalf of the 40,000 local elected Democrats across the United States, the members of the DMO Board of Directors celebrates the election of Jaime Harrison as Chair of the Democratic Party, as well as the dynamic leadership team joining him at the DNC. We are confident Chairman Harrison will continue the vital work of electing Democrats up and down the ticket and help grow our Party from the grass roots up by furthering the DNC’s investment in local races.

We know this because we know Jaime. He has worked alongside DMO since he was Chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party. Our new DNC Chair sees the value in growing the Party from the base, expanding the bench, and implementing progressive policies at the local level. DMO is excited to see Chair Harrison’s history of investment in local growth reflected in the ongoing work of the Democratic National Committee under his leadership.

The election of fellow DMO, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, as Vice Chair of Civic Engagement and Voter Protection likewise brings essential talent and commitment to a Democratic Party eager to build on our recent successes in Georgia. The work of Democrats at the local level has changed the fate of our nation, and we look forward to the Mayor’s work at the DNC leading to future victories.

Several of our leaders made personal statements supporting the new DNC leadership: 

“On behalf of Democratic Municipal Officials (DMO), my colleagues and I want to congratulate Jaime Harrison on his new role as Chair of the DNC. We all are ready to move our country forward with the exact same energy and conviction that Jaime brought to his U.S. Senate race on behalf of the people of South Carolina. We are eager to work together to further the historic progress made on various levels this past year and look forward to the future with great optimism.”

Derek Green, DNC Executive Committee
Council Member, Philadelphia, PA
President of DMO

“At this wonderfully optimistic time in America’s history, we salute the shoulders we stand upon and we celebrate the new leadership that will take us forward. Chairman Harrison and his leadership team have the right experience and the right acumen at the right time to lead our beloved Party to turn our country blue.  He appreciates the role of Democratic Municipal Officials and I look forward to our continued partnership. I am so glad that my fellow Georgian Mayor Lance Bottoms will be serving alongside him.”

Van Johnson, DNC Member
Mayor, Savannah, GA
Treasurer of DMO

“The diverse and experienced leadership recently elected will move our Party in the right direction and lead our country forward. I am proud that Governor Whitmer is yet again standing up to take on the responsibility of leading Democrats towards victory and fighting for our shared values.”

Scott Benson, Former DNC Executive Committee Member
Council Member, Detroit, MI
President Emeritus and Fundraising Chair of DMO

“I am proud to have Senator Duckworth serving as Vice Chair of the DNC. As a fellow veteran and Illinoisan, I know that she has what it takes to lead our Party to more victories for the working women and men of our state and country. Her unique life experiences will bring an invaluable perspective to our Party.”

Gil Villegas
Alderman, Chicago, IL
Board Member of DMO

Congratulations to Chairman Harrison and his exceptional team! We look forward to working with all of you to turn more cities blue and enact the progressive change Americans voted for.

The DMO Board of Directors

DNC Members

Derek Green, Council Member, Philadelphia, PA

Candace Mumm, Council Member, Spokane, WA

Ron Galperin, Controller, Los Angeles, CA

Van Johnson, Mayor, Savannah, GA

Wendy Davis, Commissioner, Rome, GA

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Barbara Moore, Executive Director of DMO

DMO Statement on the Ongoing Threat of Political Violence

The FBI has now issued warnings of nationwide armed protests opposing next week’s inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. We implore all DMOs to take care and prioritize safety, not only of your cities but also your personal security during this dangerous time.

It is clear that the attack on the nation’s Capitol that took place on 1/6/21 was not an isolated incident, but instead part of a series of consequences of the President’s ongoing rhetoric. Cities across America have endured attacks against houses of worship, peaceful protests, and elected officials, all stoked by the President’s dangerous statements and his emboldening of terrorists, including white supremacists. President Trump will leave office next week, but the violent causes he has lent credence to will remain.

DMO wants to extend our support to the local leaders of Washington, D.C., including DMO Board Member Anita Bonds and the rest of the Council, and echo Mayor Muriel Bowser’s calls for increased federal support during next week’s inauguration. We ask that all local officials stay vigilant about potential threats through the end of January. Please reach out to DMO with any requests you have made to your states or the federal government for local security assistance, so we can work alongside our partners in government to help deliver that support.

Stay alert, and stay safe.

In solidarity,

Derek Green
DMO President
Councilmember At-Large, Philadelphia, PA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Nils Robbins
Tel: 202-770-8053
Email: Nils.Robbins@nationaldmo.org

MUMM HONORED AT NATIONAL MUNICIPAL OFFICIAL CELEBRATION

Spokane Council Member given award for exemplary leadership at Democratic Municipal Officials’ National meeting

Spokane, WA, November 17, 2020 –

Spokane, WA Council Member Candace Mumm received the Susan Burgess President’s Award for Exemplary Leadership last night during the Democratic Municipal Officials’ (DMO) “Oh So Blue” Celebration. Named in honor of the late Charlotte Mayor Pro Tem and DMO President Susan Burgess, the award honors one member of DMO for their outstanding service to the organization.

DMO National President and Detroit Council Member Scott Benson presented the award to Mumm.  “Candace leads DMO on many fronts. She guides our organization in her role as Vice President, represents the interests of local Democrats at the DNC, and lends her expertise from a history in broadcasting to help us better tell the story of DMO.”

Mumm was joined at the event by several of the previous recipients of the Susan Burgess President’s Award, including Chicago, IL Alderman Joe Moore, Los Angeles, CA Controller Ron Galperin, and Rome, GA Commissioner Wendy Davis.

Typically held in person during the National League of Cities (NLC) annual City Summit, this year the DMO Celebration was held virtually on the Remo interactive platform. Mayors, council members, and other local elected Democrats comprising the membership of DMO gathered for a few hours of conversation, interspersed with short remarks by VIP guests. Kicking off the event were outgoing President of NLC and Los Angeles Council Member Joe Buscaino and President of the Democratic Mayors and current Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, both having previously served as DMO President. Congressman Adam Schiff headlined the event, with other speakers including Jaime Harrison, Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, and a video message thanking local Democrats and recognizing Mumm’s service from Senator Tammy Duckworth.

Democratic Municipal Officials is the DNC Association for municipal elected officials who personally identify as members of the Democratic Party. The organization holds three seats on the DNC, and advocates for the thousands of local elected Democrats across the United States.

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For more information, please call 202-770-8053 or email Nils.Robbins@nationaldmo.org

DMOs and Friends,

Like me, I am sure you’ve been glued to the election results as they come in. Votes are still being counted, and we are unlikely to know the final results until the end of the week at earliest. 

Despite President Trump’s premature declaration of victory last night, all evidence supports an outcome where Vice President Biden exceeds the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win. Your constituents may be worried right now. It is important to broadcast calm, and reassure them that Democrats fully intend to count every vote. 

With television networks already providing top down views of the race, we thought it would be nice to hear from your fellow DMOs in the battleground states that are still counting. DMO will continue to provide you with their updates and insights as the votes are counted.

If you appreciated DMO’s election coverage, or want to support our work bringing you these updates, please visit NationalDMO.org/donate to make an annual contribution of $50, or a recurring contribution of any amount. 

Scott Benson, City Council Member, Detroit, MI

Derek Green, City Council Member, Philadelphia, PA

Devon Reese, Vice Mayor, Reno, NV

Don Hardy, Mayor, Kinston, NC

Amir Farokhi, City Council Member, Atlanta, GA

Angela Rogensues, City Council Member, Warren, MI

Luke Fuszard, Alder, Middleton, WI

Lauren Kuby, Council Member, Tempe, AZ