Newsletter June 2022

Posted by Kathryn Bathgate
June 24, 2022

Münster-Osnabrück-Bielefeld Region Chapter Chair

Summer is officially here, and it's a time we usually slow down as a group. However, we have a few events planned in July and August, and there are still many ways you can get involved in the organization. Our annual 4th of July party is NEXT SATURDAY, July 2nd. In addition to grilling and our annual cornhole tournament, there will also be live music! Find more details and RSVP below.

Next week, our chapter will also be hosting an alternative book club format in the form of a long-read discussion. We will be discussing an article from Jonathan Haidt and seek to answer the question why the past ten years of American life have been uniquely stupid. Please not that the event will now take place on June 30th instead of the 28th. The location is still TBD, but we will contact everyone who has RSVP'd to the event when the location is set.

In August, the Münster Christopher Street Day event is making its return after a long, pandemic-induced break. We have registered to partake in the event on August 27th, and are looking for volunteers to help man the stand on the day of the event. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us!

If these events aren't enough for you during the summer break, there are still several ways for you to get involved, including phonebanking (training, Stammtisch) and joining a state team. As we continue to prepare for the Midterm elections, it's all hands on decks. If you want to support the effort in other ways, financial contributions are also greatly welcomed and appreciated. You can donate below.

DONATE

Dialing for Democracy Call-a-Thon

When: June 25th, 2022 12:00am EST-June 26th, 2022 11:59 EST
Where: Online
RSVP: Website

Description: Dialing 4 Democracy is a 48-hour voter mobilization Call-a-thon. During the weekend of June 25-26, callers will contact Democrats Abroad members who vote in battleground states. Calling will start at 12:01am US Eastern on Saturday, June 25 and continue through 11:59pm US Eastern on Sunday, June 26. TOGETHER, we can reach thousands of voters!

Long-Read Discussion Group

When: *NEW DATE* June 30th, 2022 7PM
Where: TBD in Münster
RSVP: Facebook l Website

Description:

Last month the Atlantic published a piece by sometimes controversial academic Jonathan Haidt with the provocative title "Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid." His central theme is that extremism on social media is primarily to blame for the country's deep divisions. He makes several controversial arguments concerning the need for consensus, party politics and how the fragmentation that we now fact is "unique" in American history. The article is ripe for a deep dive discussion, especially considering that only two weeks after its publication, two Dem leaders, Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Ro Khanna of California called for the party to preach less, reclaim patriotism and "stay out of the political correctness business."

Münster 4th of July Party

When: Saturday, July 2nd, 3pm

Where: Private residence in MS (RSVP for address)

RSVP: Facebook l Website

Side Dish Sign-Up List

Description: We've kind of lost count by now how many of these we have put on, but let's just say it is now a well established tradition. Join us once again (or for the first time!!) for our annual 4th of July picnic in Münster. This year's fest will feature grilling, sharing of side dishes and the 3rd Annual DA Münster cornhole tournament, among other side games that usually break out! Even if you are not a game player, come join us for an afternoon of good old American fun. Guests are asked to bring a side dish to share, and something to grill for themselves. Drinks will be provided for a small donation.

*Please note, the Bielefeld 4th of July event has been cancelled. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Democrats Abroad Oktoberfest Extravaganza

When: October 2nd, 2022 11:15am - 2:15pm Berlin Time

Where: Festhalle Schottenhamel
Munich, BY

RSVP: Website

Description: What started out 14 years ago as a Democrats Abroad “FUN-draiser” is now one of DA’s premier events worldwide. Come to Munich’s Oktoberfest, with 100 Democrats from all around the world, in one of the most traditional beer tents - and finally in-person after two years!

Get your tickets now and enjoy an early bird special pricing. Until July 31st, tickets are $70. Starting on August 1st, ticket prices will increase to $85. We are also offering 10 student-priced tickets for $60.

Each ticket includes:

A reserved seat in the “Gallerie”
A half roasted chicken (there are vegetarian options available)
Two liters of Spaten beer (there are other beverage options, too)
A 10-euro coupon for other purchases

To reserve your tickets, please RSVP and send in your donation.

We will continue to update you with any more event information throughout the summer break. Otherwise, the Münster Executive Committee and myself wish you a safe and relaxing summer vacation!