2024: Navigating the Crossroads of Change
Thanks to all who contributed to the success of our 2024 Young Elected Officials National Convening, “Navigating the Crossroads of Change”! Our event on June 27-30 took place in a beautiful waterfront space at The Wharf Intercontinental Hotel in Washington, DC, and brought together more than 100 YEOs from around the country. This was our first full national convening since the COVID pandemic, and it was a joyful reunion after several challenging years.
Our agenda this year was especially varied and rich. Our YEOs are working in an increasingly contentious environment in which threats to our democracy are real and growing, and our programming was designed to meet the moment.
And while our agenda was packed, YEO convenings are always much more than the sum of their parts. The days we spent together were enriching and empowering, and deeply moving for many of us. We heard directly from young leaders who inspired us with their personal stories. We had love, laughter and real tears. A YEO convening is unlike any other conference or gathering that most of us might attend. The energy is palpable while we’re there and stays with us when we leave. Our YEOs go back to their communities with a renewed sense of purpose and fresh skills to make their constituents’ lives better!
Building Resilience in a Challenging Environment
Panels including “Opposing Extremism and Achieving Progress in Divided Government” and “Progressive Leadership in Difficult Times” helped YEOs build resilience for the political climate we’re in. People For the American Way’s Right Wing Watch director, Peter Montgomery, offered an in-depth look at Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation document widely considered to be the playbook for a potential second Trump presidency. And legal experts provided insight into the role of federal and state courts and the critical importance of nominating and confirming judges who will uphold our civil rights.
Essential Skills and Tools
This year’s convening offered essential skills-building workshops on fundraising, strategic communications, and organizing – with a new session this year on the emergence of AI. We also focused on health and wellness and best practices for handling stress. Thanks to the generosity of our event photographer, Chris Thomas, we offered our YEOs complimentary portrait sessions so they could leave with a professional head shot.
Fellowship & Enrichment
Our national convenings traditionally open with a service project, and this year we volunteered with DC Greens, a DC nonprofit that advances health equity by building a just and resilient food system. We also had the opportunity to take part in a few very special events, a sunset tour of the National Capital as well as a tour of the White House. YEOs have served at nearly every level of government, from local school boards to the President’s Cabinet. We know it’s just a matter of time before a YEO enters the White House in the role of President of the United States – maybe that person was on our tour this year!
Looking Ahead
We are now gearing up for an exciting year ahead that will culminate with our next national convening, celebrating YEO’s 20th anniversary. Yes, YEO is 20 years old! We’re looking forward to welcoming back distinguished alumni as well as current and new members. We’ll also be assembling our next cohort of women elected officials for our Barbara Jordan-Dolores Huerta Women’s Leadership Program, which offers training and networking especially for women in public office.
