Democracy Needs Us
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Keep
Faith
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Fair Count 2020 Image Hansi Lo Wang/NPR

Great news out of Wisconsin! A bipartisan proposal could change the game for DACA recipients within the state. If passed, these bills would grant DACA recipients in-state tuition status at Wisconsin colleges and allow Wisconsin DACA recipients to apply for professional licenses to work in fields like nursing, teaching, engineering, and building trades. Currently, 24 states and Washington, DC offer in-state tuition to DACA recipients and 18 states offer some level of access to professional licensure.

 

Stay
Woke
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Fair Count 2020 Image Hansi Lo Wang/NPR

Alarm bells are ringing for 2024 elections. Only 49% of young voters aged 18-29 say they “definitely” plan on voting for president in 2024, a notable dip from 57% in 2019, and a stat that could have a huge impact on elections up and down the ballot. This drop is steeper among young Black and Latinx Americans, key demographics that often include immigrant voters.

Now as we come up on the turn of the calendar year, we must remember two things: 1. This isn’t just a numbers game. It’s about engaging New American, BIPOC, and young voters genuinely, addressing their concerns, and harnessing their voices for change. 2. These groups aren’t just numbers—they’re individuals with critical perspectives that can transform our democracy, change the face of leadership, and reimagine policies.

Take
Action
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It’s time for some Take Action Trivia!

Forty years ago, this person said that “our representative democracy is not working because the Congress that is supposed to represent the voters does not respond to their needs.” (Click here to see who said it.)

In 2023, our situation isn’t drastically different, but things are changing. Our government is being infused with authentic, accountable community members, many of whom are NAL alumni! Since 2010, we’ve trained nearly 1,700 New Americans to run for office or become organizers and advocates in their communities, and 215 of them are currently serving in elected and appointed offices nationwide.

You can help grow our movement and build a democracy that’s of, by, and for the people by donating today.

 

NAL News
And Updates
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Curious about what happens at a Ready to Lead training? 🤔

Join us on Monday, December 11 at 6 p.m. ET and learn about our application process, alumni perks, and even meet some of the staff who will be leading the training!

This info session is a must for anyone interested in attending our Ready to Lead Northeast training in New York City on February 23-25, 2024.

RSVP today (and don’t forget to apply by the priority application deadline on Thursday, December 21st!).


On Monday, we held an alumni mixer in Las Vegas for all of our Southwest alumni, and all we can say is WOW, what a night!

We were joined by dozens of familiar faces and new friends at Taps and Barrels, a locally owned AAPI bar and restaurant. A huge shoutout goes to Krisell Bakes for crafting custom macarons that mirrored the NAL blue and white and, of course, to all of the NALpistas who came out! We appreciate you all and look forward to being back in Las Vegas soon for our Ready to Lead AAPI Women training on March 15-17, 2024.


Speaking of mixers, we will be having another one for our NAL alumni in New York and the Northeast on Wednesday, December 13 in New York City!

This event is your chance to reconnect with fellow alumni, exchange inspiring stories of impact, and forge new collaborations within our vibrant community of leaders. Come join us for an evening to continue building lasting relationships that will shape our collective legacy of leadership and advocacy!

RSVP today to join us next Wednesday at The People’s Forum!


Want to join the NAL Team? You're in luck—we're hiring!

We are looking to hire our next National Director of Governance Programs.

This position fills a critical role, supporting New American elected leaders who are committed to making policy change and leading in ways that center people over power. The Director of Governance Programs also has an exciting opportunity to shape New American Leaders and New American Leaders Action Fund’s policy and outreach priorities, including the chance to recruit and engage new elected officials, expand programming opportunities, and build relationships with partners in the democracy reform space.

Learn more about the role and apply here.

Help fight systemic white supremacy by supporting our mission to get more women, immigrants, and underrepresented Americans on the ballot and into power.
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