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Celebrating Two Decades of Impact

20th Anniversary National Convening

April 30 - May 4, 2025 | The Watergate | Washington DC

The YEO Network’s 20th Anniversary National Convening, themed “Our Fight, Our Future”, was like none before it, bringing together a diverse and dynamic group of young elected officials, faith leaders, activists, innovators, policy experts, and partners from across the nation to share best practices while they participate in three days of intense issue and skills-based trainings. This convening is not just a conference; it's a pivotal moment in our shared journey towards a brighter future. 

Since our last National Convening, a presidential election reshaped our political landscape, and the foundations of our democracy will once again be put to the test. Our communities face the threats of authoritarian leadership that seek to censor our children’s education and create division through unchecked streams of disinformation. The many are being exploited, disadvantaged and silenced by the powerful few at the ballot box, in the workplace, and at the cash register. Decades of progress that advanced equality and freedom are being rolled back by far-right courts and elected lawmakers. In the wake of these unprecedented challenges, bold and visionary leadership is needed more than ever. 

At this year’s convening, we recognized the urgency and necessity of our resistance. We continue to believe that it's the young leaders of today who will navigate these challenges and shape the course of tomorrow. Our 2025 convening was designed to empower young elected leaders with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration needed to lead in this new era. 

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 Attendee Evaluation

We're already working to ensure next year's gathering even better than the last! Complete the evaluation and lend your voice!

Convening Photos

858 photos from our 20th Anniversary Convening, now available! View and share your favorite #YEO20th memories!

Program Book

Get a peek inside the convening experience by exploring our 2025 program book, now available in a digital format.

Support our Work in 2025

The end of convening means the work has just begun. Help us continue our important work throughout the year.

WATCH:
Two Decades of Impact

In 2005, we set out to transform the face of American leadership. After 20 years of impact, we're just getting started.

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Mayor Tishaura Jones Delivers Inspiring Opening Keynote

YEO alumna and the 47th Mayor of St. Louis spoke to young elected office on the importance of their leadership in a nation on the brink.

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20th Anniversary Convening Opening Celebration

Live from The Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C., YEO members and alumni gather to reflect on 20 years of impact.

More videos and content coming soon!

Our 2025 Awards

Each year at National Convening, we take the time to recognize members and friends of the the Young Elected Officials Network who have worked to advance our mission of growing the progressive pipeline and defending freedom, justice, and democracy for all of us. Learn more about our 2025 awards and honorees.

Barbara Jordan Leadership Award

This award honors People For Co-Founder, Congresswoman Jordan’s dedication to public service and our country by recognizing an outstanding young elected official who is following in her footsteps. The Barbara Jordan Leadership Award will be given to a young elected official who has shown dedication and support to the YEO Network and has a distinguished record of public service to their community and the progressive movement at large. Learn more.

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WATCH:
Rep. Sarah McBride Accepts 2025 Jordan Award

Selected through a national vote of her YEO colleagues, Sarah McBride sends an inspiring message to Convening attendees from Capitol Hill.

Continue to support the DC-based partners who made our experience possible:

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Contact Us

Are you a YEO member and need support post-convening? Contact our team today!

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About the Network

Learn more about the YEO Network and our two decades of progressive impact.

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Join the Network

Are you a young elected leader looking for a network of support? Join 1,300+ in all 50 states.

Contact Us

Fritz Pingel
yeonetworknews@gmail.com
1101 15th Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20005

Phone: 202.467.4999  

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#YEO20th

© 2023 by YEO Network. A Program of the People for the American Way Foundation

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