CANDIDATE STATEMENTS FOR DA QUEBEC BOARD POSITIONS 2025 Brief summary:   As of the revised deadline of February 4, the NEC has received 5 candidate statements for the QC Board. Here is the list of candidates: CHAIR- Dave Hamelin-Schuilenburg VICE-CHAIR- Barbara Scales VICE-CHAIR- William Hartzog TREASURER - Charles Babecki SECRETARY- Catherine Larose

Please see candidate statements below.

There will be a “meet the candidates” session Sunday, February 16 at 7 PM on webex. Here is the link for the event https://www.democratsabroad.org/377494/meet_the_candidates_da_quebec

DAVE HAMELIN-SCHUILENBURG

CHAIR STATEMENT: Hello, fellow local expats, I write to you today not just as a candidate, but as a proud American and a father who deeply cares about our future. My name is Dave Hamelin-Schuilenburg, and I want to talk to you about the challenges we face and the urgent need for us to unite against the threats posed by Donald Trump and his allies.

Gathered here in beautiful Quebec, we must confront a harsh reality: the actions and rhetoric of Donald Trump and his henchmen are not just political issues; they are threats to our reputation as Americans and to the stability of the world. We have seen how divisive language and extremist ideologies can undermine the very foundations of democracy. When we allow fear and hatred to take root, we not only tarnish our own image but also destabilize the global community that relies on American leadership and integrity.

As expats, we have a unique role to play. We are ambassadors of our values, and it is our responsibility to stand firm against this tide of extremism. We must rally our friends, our families, and our communities to ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear. The stakes have never been higher, and the time to act is now.

Let me share a bit about myself and why I am committed to this cause. I am a devoted father of two, one of whom has joined me here in Montreal. My family is my inspiration, and it drives my commitment to creating a better future for all of us. For years, I’ve served as an emergency services dispatcher, a role that requires quick thinking, compassion, and a deep understanding of the challenges our communities face. I have been on the front lines, ensuring that help is always just a call away.

But my service does not stop there. I have dedicated decades to volunteer community activism, working tirelessly with elected officials at all levels of government in Pennsylvania to combat climate change. I have been a champion for sustainable policies, advocating for a future that prioritizes our planet and the health of our children. My experience includes being a previously elected local Democrat and working on both of Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns in Pittsburgh. I have seen firsthand the power of grassroots movements and the importance of unity in the face of adversity.

In July, I felt a renewed calling to serve, and joined Democrats Abroad Quebec, eventually becoming their interim secretary. This is not just a title; it is a commitment to building a strong, organized, and effective Democratic presence in this area. I understand the urgency of our mission: to combat the threat posed by Donald Trump, and to position our party to take back Congress and the Senate in the 2026 midterms.

As such, I’m ready to serve as Chair of our local chapter, in the coming fight against the tyrant in the White House, and respectfully ask for your vote. Together, we can create a powerful network of engaged local American citizens who are ready to stand up for our values and fight for our future. I am ready to lead us in this critical endeavor, to inspire action, and to galvanize support for the Democratic Party.

So, let’s stand together. Let’s support leaders who are committed to our shared vision of a just and equitable society. Let’s mobilize our communities, encourage our friends to register and vote, and remind everyone that our democracy is worth fighting for. Together, we can make a difference, reclaim our reputation as Americans and restore stability to our world. ~ Dave

BARBARA SCALES

VICE-CHAIR STATEMENT: I am deeply committed to the Democratic Party and have been campaigning from various Locations (Manhattan, Hudson Valley, Montreal) for over 50 years. I believe that focus and stability is important right now.

CHARLES BABECKI TREASURER STATEMENT: I am excited to formally run for the position of Treasurer for Democrats Abroad Quebec. Since stepping into the role of interim Treasurer in September 2024, I have worked to ensure that our chapter’s finances are well-managed, allowing us to focus on the 2024 election cycle without any financial hiccups. From tracking expenses to drafting venue rental agreements, I’ve enjoyed contributing to the chapter’s activities.

Beyond my work with Democrats Abroad, I serve as Treasurer of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Quebec Chapter, a registered non-profit. This role has given me valuable experience in managing annual budgets and ensuring compliance with tax regulations—responsibilities I take seriously. I also volunteered at our chapter’s golf event last summer, where I supported my fellow members who led the event. That experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes effort required to organize and execute a large-scale event successfully.

I have been a lifelong Democrat, ever since I had the privilege of casting my first vote at 18 in 2004. Like so many, I felt the hope and excitement of electing Barack Obama to office, and I’ve been committed to supporting Democratic values ever since. Serving as Treasurer would allow me to continue advocating for those values while ensuring the financial health of our chapter.

Thank you for your consideration!

~Charles.

CATHERINE LAROSE SECRETARY STATEMENT: I understand you're looking for volunteers and I'm willing to help out in the position of secretary. Or on an ad hoc basis for event. My first DA experience was the Watch Party where I was responsible for registration and collecting donations. I was also the fire marshall pointing out exits as we were in the basement of a restaurant. I was also interviewed by City TV and I think I did a good job there.