Message From 2025
DA Spain Chair
Andrew Anderson

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the members and the DA 

Spain leadership team for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading DA Spain. We are truly living through a historic moment. In many ways, our fundamental rights as U.S. citizens are being challenged by our own government.

However, as Americans abroad, we are steadfast in our commitment 

to upholding and protecting those rights. DA Spain, together with DA Global, remains dedicated to ensuring that Americans living overseas retain their right to vote—and to advocating for the full range of rights and privileges to which we are entitled as U.S. citizens.

Our mission is clear. Our resolve is unwavering. We will protect and defend our rights and benefits.

I look forward to working with each of you to keep DA Spain engaged and active during this pivotal time in history. Thank you for your time, your dedication, and your commitment. Together with Jill, Mark, Ed, and Mark N., I am honored to serve the DA Spain community.

Here’s to a brighter 2025 and beyond!  

Andrew Anderson, DA Spain Chair

Announcements & Calls to Action

What You Can Do Now to Push Back Against the Trump Agenda
By Helen Morgan, DA Sevilla

What can you do today, tomorrow, and going forward? Many of us are grateful to be in Spain, far from the inhumanity and corruption of the current U.S. administration. At the same time, we worry about those still living under its impact—not just our friends and families, but also the countless others we may not know personally but see suffering every day. The good news is that being abroad doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference. In fact, even with just a few minutes, you can take meaningful action to stand up for democracy.

Democrats Abroad has created a comprehensive DA Resists campaign, offering tools and resources to help you raise your voice and be part of the resistance. One of the easiest things you can do is sign up for Take Action emails. These alerts let you know when urgent action is needed—like calling your congressional representatives about pending legislation—and they include phone numbers and a sample script. It takes just 2–3 minutes and is one of the most effective ways to influence policy, no matter where you vote.

If you can spare a bit more time, sign up for 5 Calls—a simple platform that lets you choose the issues that matter most to you and connect with your elected officials.

For those looking to combine activism with community, consider organizing or joining a Resistance Roundtable. These small, self-directed groups—either online or inperson—bring people together to take action and plan local strategy. If you're in Alicante, Barcelona, Granada, Madrid, Málaga, Sevilla, or Valencia, reach out to your chapter or precinct leaders for help getting started. If you’re in a different area, email us at [email protected] and we’ll help you connect with others nearby.

For members with legal or legislative expertise, the Defending Democracy Advocacy Group offers a way to make an even deeper impact. You can also visit DA Resists News for more opportunities, including voter assistance and phone banking—especially important as special elections arise throughout the year. If you’re not yet trained, now is the perfect time to get certified.

Finally, DA Spain will soon relaunch its outreach and advertising campaigns. If you’re able to contribute financially, your donation can help amplify our efforts and reach more voters. Together, we are stronger—and there’s no better time to take positive action than today.

You are Invited to Attend a Democrats Abroad Spain Monthly Meeting

Are you ready to make a difference and stay informed about the work being done for all Americans living abroad? Democrats Abroad Spain invites all members to join our monthly Executive Committee meetings. These online meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. on the Thursday following the second Wednesday of each month. They are where we discuss our ongoing efforts, plan for the future, and strategize to drive meaningful change.  

Your voice and perspective matter, and we need fresh energy and ideas to keep our momentum strong. Whether you’re ready to get involved, want
to learn more about our initiatives, or simply wish to stay informed, these meetings are an excellent opportunity to engage with the dedicated team working tirelessly for our shared goals. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation. To receive the meeting link, contact us at [email protected]. Let’s shape the future together!

We need new voices, fresh ideas, and enthusiastic participants to keep building on our successes. Don’t miss this chance to get involved and help drive our movement forward! If you have any questions, feel free to email us at [email protected]. Together, we can make a real difference. 

Chapter, Precinct, and Local News

Alicante
By Brett Specter

The Alicante Chapter held a productive gathering on March 30th at Sip & Wonder Café in the center of Alicante. We began mapping out ways our chapter could build connections with local activist groups in the U.S., particularly within Latino communities.

Ballots for the Alicante Chapter’s election will be distributed via email on April 22nd. The newly elected Executive Committee officers will be announced during the Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled to take place via Zoom on April 30th.Stay tuned in for more details on the Democratic Voters In Alicante, Spain Facebook page.

Barcelona
By Annie Graul

It’s been a busy few weeks here in Barcelona! We held our first (but certainly not our last) in-person session of La Lucha Continúa on February 27. The discussion focused on a major challenge we all face: how to stay informed without being overwhelmed by the non stop flow of news. It was a rich and engaging conversation—read about the session and key takeaways.

On March 29, we joined other DA Spain chapters in protesting the abuses of the Trump administration. Around 200 protesters gathered in Plaça Sant Jaume, drawing support from passersby and receiving strong media coverage.

Movie nights continue to be a popular and meaningful way to come together. In March, members watched Origin, a biographical drama about author Isabel Wilkerson and her groundbreaking work Caste. Up next, on April 27, we’ll be screening the witty political romantic comedy The American President. RSVP here. 

Our book club meets in May—so it’s time to start reading! This month’s selection is Attack from Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America by Barbara McQuade. This timely and thought-provoking book explores how disinformation threatens our democracy—and what we can do to fight back. RSVP here

And last but certainly not least, our Annual General Meeting was held on April 5, during which we elected new chapter leaders for the 2025–2027 term: 

• Chair:  Doris Stanger 
• Vice Chair:  Ann Graul  
• Secretary:  Rachel Sair 

We were honored to welcome Global Chair Martha McDevitt-Pugh as our special guest speaker. She shared insights into Democrats Abroad’s growing resistance efforts and emphasized the crucial role each of us plays in defending democracy.

Keep an eye on the DA Barcelona events page for upcoming gatherings, both in-person and online. To stay up-to-date with breaking news and developments, join the DA Barcelona Signal group here.

Madrid
By Maggie Zelonis

At DA Madrid’s Annual General Meeting on March 16, we elected our Executive Committee for the 2025–2027 term. A big thank you to Kerry and Lucia for their dedicated service over the past two years!

• Chair: Maggie Zelonis
• Vice Chair: Willie Kotas
• Secretary: Susan Lefler
• Communications Director: Tim Ginter
• Events Coordinator: Sean Dempsey
  

Following the election, we had a productive discussion about the chapter’s future priorities. Then, on March 29, we put words into action—more than 200 people joined our protest rally in Puerta del Sol to stand up for democracy. The energy was electric, and we’re excited to turn our members’ ideas into action in the months ahead.

The Democrats Abroad Madrid Chapter remains steadfast in its commitment to growth, excellence, and expanding membership across the Madrid region. Interested in helping organize the resistance from abroad? Reach out to us at [email protected], and be sure to also follow us on Instagram at @democratsabroadmadrid to stay in the loop.

Malaga Precinct
By Carey Ramos

Democratic Voters in Malaga came together and capped off a month of preparation with a powerful protest rally in central Málaga! The plaza was filled with U.S. citizens from as far away as Córdoba and Granada, along with many Spanish citizens and international allies from countries such as Canada.

The variety and creativity of the signs on display reflected the thought and passion attendees brought to the event, as they voiced their commitment to defending democracy and opposing the Trump-Musk administration. Several speakers from our Democrats Abroad community addressed the crowd, sharing powerful reflections on the impact of the administration’s actions.

A spirit of solidarity and love filled the air, culminating in a collective rendition of John Lennon’s Imagine. Coming together in protest strengthened our resolve to speak out and resist the dismantling of our democracy.

Sevilla
By Kevin Dodson

In response to the Trump inauguration, the Sevilla Chapter launched Sevilla in Action—a monthly initiative aimed at mobilizing members to contact public officials on issues of urgent concern. Each month, a Chapter member selects a topic and drafts a message addressed to relevant officials. Chapter members then commit to taking action by using the suggested message as a template—modifying it as they wish—and sending it to the appropriate offices. 

In February, members contacted their U.S. House Representatives, Senators, and State Attorneys General to advocate for the protection of personal data from DOGE. In March, members reached out to federal officials regarding the proposed elimination of the third-gender option on U.S. passports and other government documents.

In addition to our monthly First Friday social events, members have also launched a dinner club. Like First Fridays, the dinner club brings members together each month at a local restaurant. By sharing a meal, we strengthen our sense of community and mutual support during these challenging times—continuing the spirit of solidarity that began with the Chapter’s post-election dinner. Members also support one another by sharing posts, events, and opportunities for engagement.

In March, we hosted a screening of the documentary Los Negros at a local study-abroad center as a belated Black History Month event. The film explores the powerful history of Seville’s oldest Hermandad, originally founded by enslaved people in the city. The screening was introduced by the film’s producer, Joaquín Asencio, and followed by a reception. The Hermandad continues to march in Semana Santa to this day.

Finally, as part of DA-Spain’s national campaign, the Chapter organized an Americans Against Fascism demonstration on March 29 at Las Setas—the city’s main market and a popular gathering place. The rally was preceded by sign-making sessions in members’ homes and featured chants, songs, and passionate speeches. It received notable coverage on local radio. Informational materials about Democrats Abroad were distributed to passers-by and attendees, and approximately 100 people participated in the rally.

Look to our Facebook page for further details! We’re excited about the opportunities this year holds and look forward to working together to make a meaningful impact.  

Valencia
By John Schuetzle

Fallas is a festival of many emotions—and whether you love it, hate it, or both (as some of us do!), La Cremà—the final burning—is a cathartic act of release and renewal. In that spirit, DA Valencia has emerged from Fallas refreshed and energized, ready to face the challenging work ahead as we continue to resist the actions of the Trump administration.

In accordance with Democrats Abroad bylaws, which set term limits for Executive Committee positions, we recently held elections to select new chapter leadership. At our Annual General Meeting on March 1, we announced the results and shared plans for the future. We extend our heartfelt thanks to outgoing officers Chris Schwandt and Cathy Cleaver for their service, and we’re pleased to introduce our new leadership team:

• John Schuetzle & Heather Wallace – Co-Chairs
  We are thrilled to welcome John Schuetzle and his wife, Heather Wallace, as the new co-chairs of DA Valencia. John (retired) and Heather (an English teaching assistant) vote in Minnesota and moved to Valencia in September 2023. Since arriving, they’ve become active members of our chapter, already helping to organize events and engage with the community. In his remarks at the AGM, John thanked the outgoing leadership and noted, “Heather and I were impressed with the dedication and strength of the DA community, and we look forward to building upon that as we face uncertain times ahead.”
• Robin Deibert-Schmoll – Vice Chair
  We’re also excited to welcome Robin Deibert-Schmoll as our new Vice Chair. Robin works with Santander Bank in their Auto Leasing Division. She and her partner, Sarah, moved to Valencia in May 2024 with their two cats. Robin shared, “I am looking forward to working with everyone to save our democracy.”

On March 29, Democrats Abroad Valencia joined other DA Spain chapters in a nationwide protest against the actions of the Trump administration. Approximately 150–200 people gathered in Plaza de la Reina, including Americans, Canadians, Spaniards, and other concerned Europeans. The protest featured powerful speeches, passionate chants, and creative signs addressing a wide range of concerns: the rise of fascism, the abandonment of international allies, economic instability caused by trade wars and wealth concentration, the reversal of climate policies and international partnerships, and the dismantling of systems that protect voting rights, education, and freedom of the press. Protesters also called out attacks on the rights of women, people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, and immigrants.

Join the group and keep an eye on our Facebook page to stay updated on the latest DA Valencia news.

Caucus News

Women's Caucus
By Doris Stanger

While many of us are feeling overwhelmed by the Trump Administration, there are glimmers of good news to celebrate!

The ERA Coalition and the Fund for Women's Equality are pleased to share that resolutions affirming the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as the 28th Amendment have been introduced in both the House and Senate. The lead sponsor in the House is Rep. Ayanna Pressley, and in the Senate, Senator Lisa Murkowski. These resolutions were introduced on Equal Pay Day, underscoring the vital connection between constitutional sex equality and economic security. The 28th Amendment is essential to ensuring equal pay and workplace protections. Read the press release today.

The resolution in the House already has 125 cosponsors, but we are working to secure support from every member who backed it last session. If your representative hasn't signed on yet, please consider reaching out to them. Check if your member is still on the outreach list.  

In other news, the Global Women’s Caucus will host its Books Abroad feminist reading group on May 4th to discuss Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler (1947–2006). Click to find more information and to RSVP.

We’re also excited to announce the return of our popular Living in Spain series! The first session, tentatively scheduled for May 13th, will be tailored for those who have recently moved to Spain and will focus on the “Nuts and Bolts of Living in Spain.” Stay tuned for more details!

If you would like more information about the DA Women's Caucus or wish to join, click here.

Click here to learn more about DA caucuses and how to join. When you join a global caucus, you automatically become a member of the Spain caucus. Click to see all the upcoming Global Caucus events.

Democrats Abroad Spain

This newsletter comes to you by:  

• Daniel Garcia, Content Manager
• Chloe Lamfers, Designer
• Albion Land, Copy Editor
• Andrea Host-Barth, Technical Producer

To stay on top of all the news, follow Democrats Abroad Spain on social media. And please forward this email to your American friends in Spain who may not know us!

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