Bruin Democrats

Bruin Democrats. The Bruin Democrats are the official chapter of the College Democrats of America at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Founded in 1992, the organization is dedicated to promoting Democratic Party values, fostering political engagement, and supporting progressive candidates and causes. It operates as an active force in campus politics and within the broader Los Angeles political landscape, regularly collaborating with other youth and community organizations.

History

The chapter was established during a period of increased political activism on American college campuses in the early 1990s. Its formation coincided with the presidential election of Bill Clinton and a resurgence of organized youth political activity. Over the decades, the group has been involved in numerous high-profile electoral campaigns, including those for presidential nominees like Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, as well as key Senate and gubernatorial races in California. The organization has also hosted prominent speakers such as then-Senator Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, and representatives from the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Its history is marked by participation in major voter registration drives, particularly focusing on the student population in Westwood and across the University of California system.

Mission and activities

The primary mission is to educate and mobilize the UCLA student body around Democratic principles and progressive policy issues. Core activities include weekly general meetings featuring discussions on current events, workshops on political organizing, and speeches from elected officials and candidates. The group organizes substantial volunteer efforts for local, state, and federal campaigns, partnering with entities like the Los Angeles County Democratic Party and Democratic National Committee initiatives. A major annual focus is executing nonpartisan voter registration and get out the vote (GOTV) operations, often in coordination with the UC Student Association and the Secretary of State of California. Additional activities include lobbying trips to the California State Capitol in Sacramento, issue advocacy for causes like climate change action and immigration reform, and social events to build community among members.

Political positions

The organization advocates for a progressive platform aligned with the national Democratic Party and the California Democratic Party. Key stances include strong support for expansive action on climate change, including policies championed by the Sunrise Movement and the Green New Deal. The group endorses universal healthcare proposals like Medicare for All, comprehensive immigration reform including protections for DACA recipients, and bold measures to address the student debt crisis. It consistently supports reproductive rights in line with organizations such as Planned Parenthood, common-sense gun control legislation, and strengthening voting rights through acts like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. The chapter also focuses on University of California-specific issues, advocating for increased state funding, tenant protections in Westwood, and upholding affirmative action in admissions.

Leadership and organization

The group is led by an elected executive board, typically including positions such as President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Communications Director, which operates under a constitution ratified by its membership. This leadership coordinates with various internal committees focused on areas like political action, membership, and events. The chapter maintains formal affiliations with the California College Democrats, the Young Democrats of America, and the Los Angeles County Young Democrats. It receives guidance and support from the California Democratic Party and often collaborates with other campus groups, including the Undergraduate Students Association Council (USAC), Bruin Republicans, and various cultural and advocacy organizations at UCLA. Operational funding is derived from student government allocations, membership dues, and fundraising events.

Notable members

Alumni of the organization have progressed to significant roles in politics, public service, law, and activism. These include individuals who have served as staffers for members of the United States Congress, including representatives from California districts and senators like Dianne Feinstein. Others have worked in the administrations of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and Governor Gavin Newsom. Notable alumni also include candidates for local office in City Council elections, delegates to the Democratic National Convention, and leaders within the California Democratic Party apparatus. Furthermore, members have pursued careers in political journalism, policy analysis at think tanks like the Center for American Progress, and as organizers for major advocacy groups such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

Category:University of California, Los Angeles organizations Category:College Democrats chapters Category:Political organizations in Los Angeles Category:Organizations established in 1992