Learn about what's going on in the Frankfurt & Greater Hessen Chapter of Democrats Abroad Germany in March and April 2022.

We will be holding elections for the Frankfurt Chapter on Friday February 26.   Click here for details.

Dear Friends,

The Frankfurt Chapter mourns the death of George Floyd and countless men, women, and children who have been killed by police officers or who have been the victims of other racist violence.

Much of the world has now come together in solidarity to call for an end to racism and police brutality, and to demand respect and equality for people of color everywhere – “No justice, no peace.” Every DAG Chapter had members that participated in one of the 17 Black Lives Matter marches that took place this past weekend in Germany, and according to German news sources, more than 115,000 people across this country participated. 

Now is the time for Democrats to seize this moment, to come together to work for racial justice, and to use the power of both the protest and the ballot box to bring about  change. 

This month is also Pride Month, and we gather to commemorate and celebrate Pride. The Global LGQT Caucus is hosting several virtual events that you can participate in.

Have you requested your ballot yet?  If not, please go to VoteFromAbroad.org to request your ballot, and please urge your family, colleagues, and friends here and in the US to register to vote and to vote blue!

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Upcoming Events and Activities  

• June 13^th: Drag Bingo Fundraiser: Hosted by the DA LGBT Caucus
• June 14^th: Dialing for Democracy Phone-a-Thon
• June 15^th: Howard Dean Speaks with Democrats Abroad
• June 16^th: Members Greta Olson and Derek Bembry discuss race
• Now till June 15^th: Fundraiser – Homemade Apple Pie
• June 18^th: Frankfurt Chapter Meeting – Next meeting July 16
• June 19^th: Juneteenth
• June 26^th: Social meetups - Culture and Community in America
• July 16^th: Frankfurt & Wiesbaden-Mainz Book Club
• Educate Yourself About Racial Justice
• Ways to Get Involved Now

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**June 13^th:  Drag Bingo Fundraiser: Hosted by the DA LGBT Caucus

Pride events around the world have been canceled, but Pride remains. Join a global virtual Drag Queen Bingo evening and help Democrats Abroad get out the vote in 2020!  Visit the DA website to learn more.

**June 14^th, 9:00am to 9:00pm CEST:  Dialing for Democracy, Flag Day Call-a-Thon

In order to provide the margin of victory in November, we need to increase voter participation from abroad. Only 7% of US citizens abroad cast ballots in 2016 — we must do everything possible to turn out more of the 3+ million US voters from around the globe in 2020!

Dialing for Democracy is a fundraising call-a-thon, in which our outstanding phonebankers make as many calls as they can from 9:00am to 9:00pm CEST on Flag Day, June 14 (we will reach thousands of overseas voters!). DA and callers will work together to secure sponsors who will push us to reach our calling goals and generously provide the critical funds to keep our voter outreach projects going strong through November!

From 7:30pm to 9:30pm, we will also be live on Facebook to track our progress and hear from our callers. It will be fun, it will be informative, and it will be an opportunity to connect with fellow DA members as we all encourage our callers in the final stretch.

Visit Dialing for Democracy to learn more. To learn how you can participate.

If you can't call, you can sponsor one of the DAG members who is.

**June 15^th, 3:00pm: Howard Dean Speaks with Democrats Abroad

Join DA for a Webinar with Howard Dean on June 15 at 3 pm German time. Howard Dean is a former Governor of Vermont, a former candidate for President, a former DNC Chairperson, and a long-time friend of Democrats Abroad. As DNC Chair, he promoted the 50-state strategy that took the fight to Republicans in every state.  He will be talking with us about the crucial 2020 elections and about how we can help put Democrats back in the White House, back in the Senate majority, retain our majority in the House - and elect Democrats up and down the ballot.

RSVP here.

**June 16^th, 7pm: Polizeigewalt, Rassimus, Trump

Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Hessen, Livestream auf unserem Youtube-Kanal und diskutieren Sie mit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwDewNcxSk8

Members Greta Olson, Professor of English and American Literary and Cultural Studies (Justus Liebig University Gießen), Derek Bembry, Chair Black Caucus DAGermany, and Chair Initiative Schwarze Menschen in Deutschland Siraad Wiedenroth discuss “Über Ursachen und Wirkungen der amerikanischen Wut.“ Moderated by Andreas Schwarzkopf, Frankfurter Rundschau. Complete information here.

**June 18^th, 7:00pm to 8:30pm:  Frankfurt Chapter Meeting

8:30pm to 9:30pm:  Post-Meeting Drinks Social

Zoom https://zoom.us/j/91775085063

Join us for our virtual monthly chapter meeting, where we will have two guest speakers.

Angela Fobbs, Global Black Caucus Chair will discuss Black Lives Matter and the protests against racist violence related to George Floyd’s death. Will change finally come? How will it happen?

Katie Solon, DNC Committee Representative and former Chair of Democrats Abroad Global, will talk to us about the Democratic National Committee. How it has changed since 2016? What is the DNC’s role is in the presidential election process? How will the DNC Reps represent Democrats Abroad during the next four years?

Katie will provide a brief presentation, and then open up the discussion to take your questions and hear your thoughts.

Members Virtual Drinks Social:  Do you want to continue the discussion over a virtual glass of wine or tea with the group?  Join us after the meeting for a Virtual Drinks Social – or have a piece of Wendy’s pie.

How can you participate?

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/91775085063

You do not have to have a Zoom account to attend a Zoom meeting or interview. You will be prompted to download the software, once you have clicked on the link that you have been provided. So, if you’ve not used Zoom on your chosen device, give yourself time.

Please enter your name and your German town in parentheses.

Meeting ID: 917 7508 5063
One tap mobile
+493056795800,,91775085063# Germany
+496950502596,,91775085063# Germany

Dial by your location
        +49 30 5679 5800 Germany
        +49 695 050 2596 Germany
        +49 69 7104 9922 Germany
Meeting ID: 917 7508 5063
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/abTHYEWFpQ

**June 19 - Juneteenth TBA

**What’s as American as Apple Pie? Democracy!

From now to June 15, every donation (US citizens only) of at least 35€ to Democrats Abroad-Germany will be thanked with a homemade apple pie (delivery within Frankfurt 60xxx post code. Outside Frankfurt, arrange with Wendy).

Please send your donation to Democrats Abroad-Germany, Kreissparkasse-Kaiserslautern, DE04 5405 0220 0140 2702 99, Verwendungszweck Frankfurt Apple Pie. After you’ve made your generous donation, contact our baker and fellow DA member, Wendy, to schedule delivery. Pies can be ordered as gifts for non-US citizens, too! They are delicious.

**June 26th, 8:30pm pm to 9:30pm: Culture and Community in America – FOOD:

Let's meet for an hour a month and talk about topics that are outside the Beltway. Maybe we can recharge our political batteries and discuss some of the interesting cultural ways of our homeland.

This month’s discussion: American Food, hosted by DA Frankfurt Chapter member Paul Abbot.

• Why didn't I know what quark is?
• Is all-purpose flour 405 or 550?
• Why don't we call baloney meat cheese?
• Is there really a Dunkin Donuts in the pedestrian zone in downtown Frankfurt?
• The bagel came from Germany, didn't it?

The meeting will be hosted via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87280252916?pwd=RU8zRHFrTHYrTmY4clM1QjJMZUwzUT09

Meeting-ID: 872 8025 2916
Passwort: 8mgd8Y

Please email Paul at [email protected] to RSVP.

**July 26 at 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm:  Frankfurt & Wiesbaden-Mainz Book Club: Stacey Abrams' new book, “Our Time is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America.”

We are pleased to announce the launch of the Frankfurt & Wiesbaden-Mainz Book Club with “…a story about how and why we fight for our democracy and win." Please, RSVP for more information and the Zoom link.

**Other DA Germany Events:

You are cordially invited to get to know the folks at the many fun and thoughtful online events hosted by other Germany chapters. Check these pages often for updates of discussions, book clubs, and social gatherings. Attend a Caucus presentation and then join a caucus to support your passion and stay informed.

Coordinators for all caucuses are open in the Frankfurt Chapter. Contact Barb Chap, Chair, if you can fill one of these important liaison positions.

You are cordially invited to get to know the folks at the many fun and thoughtful online events hosted by other Germany chapters. Check these pages often for updates of discussions, book clubs, and social gatherings. Attend a Caucus presentation and then join a caucus to support your passion and stay informed.

Coordinators for all caucuses are open in the Frankfurt Chapter. Contact Barb Chap, Chair, if you can fill one of these important liaison positions.

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Educate Yourself About Racial Justice: Six Links to Check Out

1. Podcast on Racism in the US:  Kenton Barnes, Vice Chair, DAG, participated in a discussion with Ralph Freund, Republicans Overseas and Michael Dreyer at the Institut für Politikwissenschaft, Universität Jena on June 8^th.  The topic was racism and violence in the US.  Listen to the replay of the interview, in German, from Deutschlandradio

2. Read this informative article from Scalawag magazine: Reckoning with white supremacy: Five fundamentals for white folks

3. Video on Race: Can We Talk?  Dr. John Fitzgerald Gates, a thought-leader and diversity expert, is President and CEO of Campus Diversity Agenda and Principal of Criticality Management Consulting.  He joined the CEO of Macys Department Stores for a conversation on race. “We don’t get to change the world by opting out of discomfort.”  Why Macy's? Background here.

4. Watch and listen to Al Sharpton’s Eulogy for George Floyd.

5. Watch the acclaimed movie, "Just Mercy," based on the award-winning book. “Just Mercy” is the true story of Bryan Stevenson, a civil rights attorney who worked to defend a man wrongfully convicted of murder, and stars Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx. In response to current events, Warner Bros is offering free video rental throughout June through a variety of digital movie services in the US, including Apple TV, FandangoNow, Google Play, Amazon Prime Video, Redbox, PlayStation Store, Vudu, Microsoft, and YouTube.  Thanks to Angela Fobbs, who found this offer and checked it out at Amazon.

6. Read The End of Policing about police abolition is available for free as an ebook right now from Verso Books.

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GET INVOLVED

Democrats Abroad helps keep our democracy strong by mobilizing the overseas vote. Shockingly, over 90% of Americans living abroad do not vote.

Become part of the team. Check out the opportunities and details at the Frankfurt Active Members link. These include phone banking to members and coloring postcards to reach non-members in Germany. New and more possibilities to volunteer will be added.

In this time of much sadness, our mission at DA is even more important. Let’s find Americans and help them vote.

Stay healthy,

The Frankfurt Chapter Team

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Dear Friends,

We trust you are doing well.

Wondering what the new “normal” might look like? No one knows yet. Meanwhile, we can take advantage of the many virtual get-togethers available within DA. Please scroll down to find the ones you like. And do indulge in apple pie. 

In this issue:

• 15 May to 30 May: Fundraiser – Homemade Apple Pie
• 16 May: DA Europe Middle East Africa Regional Convention
• 22 May: New - Social meetups - Culture and Community in America
• 28 May: Frankfurt Chapter Meeting
• 26 July: New – Frankfurt & Wiesbaden-Mainz Book Club

You are cordially invited to get to know the folks at the many fun and interesting online events hosted by other Germany chapters. Check these pages often for updates of discussions, book clubs, and social gatherings. Attend a Caucus presentation and then join a caucus to support your passion and stay informed.

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What’s as American as Apple Pie?... Democracy!

From May 15 to May 30, every donation (US citizens only) of at least 35€ to DAFrankfurt Treasurer’s account  will be thanked with a homemade apple pie (delivery within Frankfurt 60xxx post code. Outside Frankfurt, arrange with Wendy). Please send your donation to Katherine Ann Sawyer, IBAN no. DE02 5019 0000 7700 0184 95. After you’ve made your generous donation, contact our baker and fellow DA member, Wendy, to schedule delivery. Pies an be ordered as gifts for non-US citizens, too!

Hmmmmm. Delicious.

Your support is critical to finance ongoing activities such as:

•  WebEx fees for Chapter meetings online, DA Webinars
•  DA Germany Vote-from-Abroad postcard campaign
•  Phone banking – Germany made over 3600 calls

Thank you for supporting the Frankfurt Chapter.

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More info including required registration. Drop in for the first ever online EMEA Regional Convention. Take advantage of the unique opportunity to listen in on some of the workings of DA without leaving home: Electing important representatives to the Democratic National Committee and the Democratic National Convention. The afternoon session will include a discussion of the EMEA suggestions for the global DA Platform, which will be finalized at the DA Global Convention on June 6. We hope that you can join for all or part of it.

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Culture and Community in America: Friday, May 22, 8 pm to 9 pm.

Frankfurt Chapter member Paul Abbott will host virtual get-togethers one Friday a month till the end of 2020. We’ll put political campaigns aside and together take a broad look at the United States of America. First in the series: RIP Hollywood – Long Live Streaming? Is the movie theater experience a thing of the past? Has the Corona virus made 5-dollar popcorn obsolete? Will we miss sitting in a theater, experiencing a newly released movie with others? Let's talk about how American culture is evolving to a new normal. RSVP: Call or message Paul 0170 7789473 for a Zoom invitation.

Next in the series Culture and Community: June 19, Food in America; July 10, Music today in the USA.

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Frankfurt Chapter Meeting: Thursday, May 28 from 7:00 pm to 8:30, WebEx.

Join us for our virtual monthly chapter meeting. Talking points this month:

Will Joe Biden have finally chosen a VP? If so, there will be lots of comments and viewpoints. If not, present your viewpoint on who his VP nominee should be. How can we create a Blue Tsunami in November 2020? Get to know key races and how we can help. This time we’ll focus on Jaime Harrison, former SC Democratic Party Chair and Associate DNC Chair, running ahead right now of Lindsey Graham. What happened at the EMEA Convention? Short report. How are we doing in Get Out The Vote campaigns? Do you have other topics? These are your meetings and a chance to discuss with other Americans.

https://democratsabroad.webex.com/democratsabroad/e.php?MTID=m9fe2810687d6dc0bedc038045b2b16f3

To join: On your computer, simply click the link and follow instructions below. If you have never joined a WebEx meeting before, get set up 10 minutes before the official start. With a tablet or phone, down load the app. Here's how. Then follow the directions below.

1. Enter your first name and preferably your last name, too, and then put the German city/town where you live in parentheses next to your name. Example: Mary Member (Marburg)
2. Enter your email address.
3. Enter the meeting password: dems
4. Click "Join".

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Frankfurt & Wiesbaden-Mainz Book Club: Sunday, July 26 at 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Stacey Abrams' new book, “Our Time is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America”

We are pleased to announce the launch of the Frankfurt & Wiesbaden-Mainz Book Club with “…a story about how and why we fight for our democracy and win." Please, RSVP for more information and the Zoom link. Join us or join the other book-discussion groups found at the DAGermany event page.  More about the book and Image Source

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GET INVOLVED

Democrats Abroad helps keep our democracy strong by mobilizing the overseas vote. Shockingly, over 90% of Americans living abroad do not vote.

Five ways you can help.

1. Have you requested your ballot yet? Now would be a great time to visit www.votefromabroad.org and get that in order. Since COVID-19 has affected mail service to the US, you can’t do this too early.

2. Color postcards to send to American voters in Germany in “battleground” states of AZ, CO, FL, GA, MI, MN, MT, NC, OH, PA, and postcards were recently sent to WI voters. If you need postcards, please click here to fill out the new "GoogleForm".

Thank you to members Michael D. (100+), Pam D. (100), Tobe vG., Diana A., Kate S. and our friends Götz (100+) and Tilly (100).

3. Phone banking is the most effective way of reminding our members to request an absentee ballot. Sixty-one phone bankers in Germany made over 3500 calls that helped us achieve the second highest turnout in DA. Join a live phone-banking training hosted by the Munich Chapter and see how easy it is. Just click to RSVP: On May 14 at 3pm, on May 20 at 7pm, on May 27 at 3pm.

4. We are also supporting down-ballot campaigns directly in the US. If you are interested, contact Kate for more information on how you can work specifically - but remotely - in a critical state. We've already supported successful Wisconsin elections.

Thank you to the Frankfurt April phone bankers: Joe M. and Susan C. Welcome to new-comers Carolyn S., Gudrun R-C. and Tyler C.

5. Short on time? Please think about contributing. DA is run totally on donations and with volunteering members. Your donation goes directly to the activities that support Get Out The Vote.

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The take-away from the April chapter meeting focusing on the CARES Act is don’t assume you don’t qualify or have a situation that can’t be overcome. Check out Americans Abroad Guide To CARES Act Aid For Individuals.

Thank you for scrolling through, and we hope that you will be able to participate in some of the many events available.  If you have questions, suggestions, or comments, contact Chapter Chair Barb Chap.

Stay healthy and happy,

The Frankfurt Chapter Team

Welcome to new and returning members. We hope you are well. And thank you for opening the chapter newsletter. In this edition, you will find:

Three on-line chapter get-togethers and six concrete things you can do to make a difference. Scroll through and find what appeals to you.

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Message from the Frankfurt Team:

In the current situation of restricted face-to-face contact and remote socializing, we recognize that everyone has been affected in different ways - some quite dramatically and uncomfortably - and we are dealing with changes that we never thought we’d have to make.

What has not changed is our determination to win the 2020 elections. The Republicans have openly admitted what we’ve known for decades: If more people voted, the Republicans would “never be elected.” And since we know that most expats don’t vote, the main work of Democrats Abroad to get out the vote gives us a lot to do - even now.

With member input, we are suggesting several activities, and we welcome your individual input on other ideas.

Stay healthy,

Barb Chap, Chair; Dhaval Kapadia, Vice; Stacey Kruckel, Secretary; Kate Sawyer, Treasurer

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Three different get-togethers at three different times – online, easy to join, and free with your computer. Kate Sawyer will give us the status of the CARES act, which may provide some monetary relief to Americans living abroad. And, we’ll get to know one another better by hearing from you. The Frankfurt Chapter covers basically all of Hessen and parts of Bavaria, and now we will reach people who couldn’t reach a physical meeting place.

Saturday afternoon, 18 April at 1:00 pm. Bring your own sandwich and a beverage and Join the group at https://democratsabroad.webex.com/democratsabroad/e.php?MTID=me3be6cdc31a9f197d56085d17910992b 

No working computer? Call-in toll number (US): +1-650-479-3208. Meeting call-in access code: 477389933

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Tuesday morning, 21 April at 10:30 am for a coffee, tea, and cake break. The group meets at https://democratsabroad.webex.com/democratsabroad/e.php?MTID=m52176e0d326ed5a8b63609b09f73666c

No working computer? Call-in toll number (US): +1-650-479-3208. Meeting call-in access code: 478579705

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Thursday evening, 23 April at 7 pm. Just bring your beverage and your smiling face. The meeting takes place at https://democratsabroad.webex.com/democratsabroad/e.php?MTID=m14a07b2b2fde31cfd1738b0f72ab8022

No working computer? Call-in toll number (US): +1-650-479-3208.  Meeting call-in access code: 475175097

For all meetings:

1. Enter your name and then put your town in parentheses. Enter your email address.
2. Enter the meeting password: dems
3. Click "Join".
4.  When the WebEx Meeting Center opens, please select "Use Computer for Audio" (in the Audio Conference pop-up box, under "Audio Connection"), and you will be able to hear the call conversation.

We’re looking forward to seeing you.

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Six different actions – Almost everyone wants and can do “something” to get Democrats elected. The important thing is to find the “something” that will give you a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment. No matter how small, everything counts.

		1. Amazingly, not all of DA members vote. Join an experienced team and be a phone banker. Remind our members to request their ballots NOW. You can start here to sign up and here to watch a training video. (Ignore the initial message and click on the play arrow. It takes a bit before it starts.) Let Barb Chap, Chair, know if you want more information.
2. Write postcards. This is the best way we have now to reach ex-pats in Germany to register and request an absentee ballot. Every single postcard you personally color and write will reach a real person. DA has secured the voting rolls in the battleground states of AZ, CO, FL, GA, MI, MN, MT, NC, OH, PA. Wisconsin voters were the first to get cards. Just email Barb Chap, Chair with the number of cards you would like, and she’ll give you the details and mail them to you.
3. Call or write your member of Congress to request that they guarantee safe, secure elections during the coronavirus outbreak: https://indivisible.org/resource/ensuring-safe-secure-elections-during-covid-19-outbreak
4. Use your network here and in the States to remind in-country Americans to vote. Vote Save America - https://www.votesaveamerica.com		Remote volunteering possibilities with USA organizations, for example: Fairfight  Swing Left (Contact Kate for details) Supermajority  Justice Democrats  Sister District Higher Heights
5. Stay informed and stay in touch. You do not have to be a member of any Caucus to join: Joint presentation of Global Black Caucus, Global Women’s Caucus, and Global Hispanic Caucus. This is an important discussion with Dr. Ramona Huston on how Democrats can build powerful, multi-racial / multi-cultural coalitions and a stronger Democratic Party:  Black/Brown Power, Whiteness and Women: The 2020 Election Challenge—Democrats, Be the Light! Save America!: https://youtu.be/UrumuJJiAd8 Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at 7 pm CET Global Women's Caucus: Earth Day Panel  event RSVP Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at 7pm CET Global Black Caucus: GBC Cafe - III RSVP		More ways to be informed and active:   DAGermany Get Out The Vote - a comprehensive resource page Dem List – a source site for democratic activists, leaders, party committees, supporters and allies Ballotpedia - a digital encyclopedia of American politics and elections
6. Contribute The expenses at Democrats Abroad Germany continue for the websites, the database, the platforms for meetings, webinars, and trainings. No amount is too little. Thank you. You can set up a one-time or recurring donations with a bank transfer to the following account: Account name: Democrats Abroad Germany IBAN: DE04 5405 0220 0140 2702 99   BIC: MALADE51KLK		Both Washington Post and New York Times have suggestions and links to corona-virus related charities.

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We appreciate your reading the newsletter and look forward to your feedback.

Be well,

The Frankfurt Chapter Team

Thanks for reading the Chapter News.

The DAG Frankfurt Chapter provides a space for you to get to know your compatriots, to discuss and debate the issues of the day, and to be active in helping elect Democrats to reclaim our country for democracy. – Now meeting in Darmstadt, Gießen, Frankfurt and, for a short time, get-togethers in Eppstein.

GET INVOLVED: Come to a meeting and/or become a volunteer. Short on time? Please think about contributing. DA is run totally on donations and with active members.

Or contact Barb Chap, Chapter Chair, directly if you have an idea, want to learn more about the Frankfurt Chapter, or be part of the organizational team (Press, for example).

In this post you'll find the many chapter activities. Scroll down to learn more.

VOTE FROM ABROAD INFO STAND - Frankfurt February 28

GLOBAL PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY

    GPP Planning Meetings:

    - Frankfurt - February 25
    - Darmstadt -  February 28 

    GPP – Vote in Person:

    - Frankfurt - March 3 & March 7
    - Darmstadt - March 7

TAUNUS TALKS in Eppstein - February 25, March 19 and 31 

INVITATION FROM HEINRICH-BÖLL-STIFTUNG HESSEN
Frankfurt - March 6

CHAPTER MEETINGS:

   - Frankfurt - March 12
   - Gießen/Marburg - March 14
   - Darmstadt Area - March 28

WHAT'S NEXT - Bring an American with you… 

Vote From Abroad Info Stand: Saturday, February 28, 1pm to 5pm. Hauptwache, on Ziel between Kaufhof and My Zeil 

With the GPP just a few days away, we want to reach Saturday shoppers. The volunteers at the 15^th February stand not only informed a dozen or so Americans, we were able to collect some donations, too. 

Take an hour shift or more by signing up at the doodle poll. Meet lots of nice people and help them request an absentee ballot. T-shirts and hoodie jackets are available for us to raise donations. Or you could bake some Cookies for Cash.

GPP Planning Meetings:

It would be great if you, too, joined the GPP teams and helped members exercise democracy by voting 

- Frankfurt – February 25, online at zoom. Contact Barb.

- Darmstadt Area - Saturday, February 29, 1 pm - 3 pm. Contact Brian
  Hotel Restaurant Bockshaut, Kirchstraße 7-9, 64283 Darmstadt 

Global Presidential Primary Voting Centers:

Vote in person for the Democratic candidate of your choice! Then enjoy conversation with like-minded members and snacks.

FRANKFURT Contact us to join the planning meeting on February 25 and be active part of this important and fun event.

DARMSTADT AREA Contact Brian to join in the planning on 29 February and the fun of this important event.

Taunus Talks:

Eppstein: Tuesday, February 25; Thursday, March 19; Tuesday, March 31

A few small dinners at a member’s home to discuss democracy and how we can exercise our power as U.S. citizens. Come for an evening of friendly faces, good food and respectful dialogue about things that really matter.  Starting at 6:30. RSVP for any date that works for you and for directions.

INVITATION FROM THE HEINRICH-BÖLL-STIFTUNG

On behalf of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Hessen, I cordially invite the members of Democrats Abroad Germany to a panel discussion (in German) on "Die Demokratische Partei nach dem Super Tuesday - Wer fordert Trump heraus?" at the Haus am Dom in Frankfurt at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 6. More info       With thanks and best regards,       Gerhard Wiesinger, Advisory Board

CHAPTER MEETINGS:

Frankfurt Chapter Meeting: Thursday, March 12, 7 to 9pm

SPD Haus, Fischerfeldstraße 7-11, 60311 Frankfurt

Now that many of the primaries are over, what does the presidential candidate field look like?

No matter, we know what our job is: Let’s find as many Americans as we can and sign them up to get their absentee ballots. How are we going to do that? What events shall we plan? How about a few parties? Let’s hear what you have to say.

TIME FOR A CHANGE: Get social with us at Metropol at 5:30 before the meeting. Getting there at 6:00 still gives you time to order a delicious meal before heading to the SPD Haus, just a 7-minute walk away.

Metropol Café am Dom, Weckmarkt 13 – 15, 60311 Frankfurt

Gießen/Marburg Meet & Plan: Saturday, March 14, 1 pm - 3 pm

Justus im Hessischen Hof, Frankfurterstraße 7, 35390 Gießen

For our first meeting in the Gießen/Marburg area, 23 members enjoyed lunch and political conversation. How can you be active to restore the White House and Congress to the Democrats? We’ll talk about the ways and plan activities for the coming months. 

Darmstadt Area Meeting: Saturday, March 28, 1 pm - 3 pm

Hotel Restaurant Bockshaut, Kirchstraße 7-9, 64283 Darmstadt

The Darmstadt Area had a Global Presidential Primary Voting Center on March 7. We’ll get a report. And then we can map out the next months’ activities to help Americans register and request their absentee ballots. How can you be active? Join this dedicated group to find out.

OTHER UP-COMING ACTIVITIES: 

Chapter Potluck - End of March TBA

Fun for the whole family. Liza and Carl are looking for a suitable venue for families, a kitchen, easy to get to with public transport, and parking. Know a good place? Contact us.

Planned Meet and Greet Events in other Chapter cities:

If you live outside of Frankfurt proper and would like an event near you, you can help us to find the right location, and we can plan the meeting and contact the people around you. We need everyone’s vote in 2020 to put Democrats in office! Contact Barb, Chapter Chair. [email protected]

Thank you for reading, and VOTE in the Global Presidential Primary – online or in person.

We're looking forward to meeting you all. Please join us.

Frankfurt Chapter Team

The DAG Frankfurt Chapter now has meetings in three locations (info is below). Primary season starts soon with the Iowa Caucuses, so now is the time to make your voice heard, to vote and help get out the vote, and to do whatever we can to bring about a blue wave in November.

Please read our newsletter and get active. Your support, energy and activism this year are vital. 

Announcements from the Chair

1. With nearly 1,000 members among over 15,000 Americans, the Frankfurt Chapter goes from Marburg to Bensheim, from the Rhine to Würzburg. If you missed the Frankfurt Chapter AGM on January 19th, you can read an overview of the Chapter’s 2019 activities and 2020 goals here.
2. Please welcome Dhaval Kapadia as our new Vice Chair and Phone Banking Coordinator. Dhaval, new to us from the Singapore Chapter, is outgoing and friendly, and has with extensive experience in Getting Out The Vote.
    
3. Help promote democracy. You, too, can find Americans who don’t know they can vote. A simple way is to carry Vote From Abroad cards with you. Need some? Let us know.

Thanks for being active,

Barb

What’s Next? Bring an American with you…

Darmstadt Area Meet & Plan: Saturday, February 8^th, 1 pm - 3 pm

Hotel Restaurant Bockshaut, Kirchstraße 7-9, 64283 Darmstadt

The Darmstadt Area has a Global Presidential Primary Voting Center on March 7th. What is it? How can you vote locally in the presidential primary? How can you help get Americans to vote? Join this dedicated group to find out. More info

Frankfurt Chapter Meeting: Thursday, February 13^th, 7 to 9pm

SPD Haus, Fischerfeldstraße 7-11, 60311 Frankfurt

With the Global Presidential Primary just ahead of us, please join us to learn more about local voting in the Democratic presidential primary, and how you can help support the two local Voting Centers that we plan to have in Frankfurt on March 3^rd and 7^th.

Then let’s discuss: Do you vote for your favorite candidate or the one that can best defeat Trump? It’s a difficult decision, so come and share your thoughts.

Don’t forget to get social! Meet us at 5:30pm for dinner before the meeting and/or for drinks after the meeting. Getting there at 6:00pm still gives you time to order a delicious meal before heading to the SPD Haus, just a 5-minute walk away.

Moloko. Kurt-Schumacher-Straße 1, 60311 Frankfurt

Corner of Schöne Aussicht and Alte Brücke

Vote From Abroad Info Stand, Saturday, February 15^th (set up at 12) 1pm to 5pm.

Hauptwache, on Ziel between Kaufhof and My Zeil

We had a lot of fun at the January stand. Sign up using this doodle poll to take an hour long (or more) shift. Meet lots of nice people, provide information, and help them request an absentee ballot. Would you prefer to be in the background? You can still join in. T-shirts and hoodie jackets are available for us to raise donations. Or you could bake some Cookies for Cash.

Global Presidential Primary Voting Centers:

Frankfurt - March 3^rd and 7^th
Linguarama Spracheninstitut GmbH,
Große Eschenheimer Straße 39, 60313 Frankfurt
Tuesday, March 3, 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday, March 7, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Vote in person during the Democratic Presidential Primary!

We need your help! Be a greeter, check folks in, count ballots, etc. We have lots to do, and your help is needed. Work with us for a few hours or be part of the team all day. We aim to sign up a lot of new voters – for Super Tuesday (Stacey, Manager) or Saturday (Carl, Manager). Contact us to join in the fun be an active part of this event. 

Darmstadt – March 7^th
Hotel Restaurant Bockshaut, Kirchstraße 7-9, 64283 Darmstadt
Saturday, March 7, 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Vote in person in Darmstadt during the Democratic Presidential Primary!

We need your help! Be a greeter, check folks in, count ballots, etc. We have lots to do, and your help is needed. Work with us for a few hours or be part of the team all day. We aim to sign up a lot of new voters –Saturday (Brian, Manager). Contact us to join in the fun be an active part of this event.

Planned Meet and Greet Events in other Chapter cities:

If you live outside of Frankfurt proper and would like an event near you, you can help us to find the right location, and we can plan the meeting and contact the people around you. We need everyone’s vote in 2020 to put Democrats in office! Contact Barb, Chapter Chair. [email protected]

Other News:

DA Germany Annual Meeting: January 24-26^th 

DA Germany recently held its Annual General Meeting in Munich. Over 180 Americans from across Germany attended the event, where we planned activities for 2020, and where we heard inspirational and informative presentations on issues ranging from immigration reform to feminism in the age of Trump. David Schor, a renowned data scientist who was the the guest speaker at the event, gave us statistics and ideas on how to get our 2020 message right: Focus on issues, particularly health care. Don’t bash Trump, the Republicans or that supporters -- that backfires.

After the amazing AGM, DA Germany members are more determined than ever to give the extra effort to get Americans to vote.

Celebrating Black History Month

The Frankfurt chapter is proud to join with other Americans in celebrating Black History Month. Below are links to lists of books, music and more that to educate, inform, and inspire you for Black History Month:

25 Amazing Books by African-American Writers You Need to Read

https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/532058/books-by-african-american-writers-you-need-to-read

The New York Times: 1619 Project

A series of podcasts and a special issue of the NY Times magazine devoted to African-American history and life, published to commemorate the 400^th anniversary of the landing of the first slaves in the US.

Read the magazine here: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/08/14/magazine/1619-america-slavery.html?searchResultPosition=4

Listed to the podcasts here: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/22/podcasts/1619-trailer.html?searchResultPosition=3

National Museum of African-American History and Culture

Digitally explore the collection at the National Museum of African-American History and Culture: https://nmaahc.si.edu/

Code Switch: Race and Identity Remixed

is a great podcast on race produced by National Public Radio (NPR). They have assembled some of their most fascinating podcasts into a playlist for Black History Month

https://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2020/02/01/401948607/a-code-switch-playlist-for-black-history-month?t=1580579823243

Get Involved with DAG Frankfurt!

Come to a meeting and/or become a volunteer. Short on time? Please think about contributing. DA is run totally on donations and with active members.

Or contact Barb Chap, Chapter Chair, directly if you have an idea, want to learn more about the Frankfurt Chapter, or be part of the organizational team (Press, for example).

Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you soon.

DA Germany-Frankfurt Chapter

The new year is upon us, and since this is an important election year, now is the time to meet up, mobilize, and work with other Americans to help attain a blue wave during this year’s elections.

The DAG Frankfurt Chapter provides a space for you to meet to all of this, and more!  You can meet your compatriots, discuss and debate the issues of the day, and to volunteer to help elect Democrats to change our country for the better.

Join us!

Upcoming Events:

Frankfurt Chapter Meetings:

  - Vote from Abroad Info Stand, January 18th

  - Gießen - Meet and Greet, beginning February, Date TBA

  - DA Germany Annual General Meeting, January 24-26^th in Munich

A Message from the Frankfurt Chapter Chair

2020 is the year of “The Power of One Vote.” (Thank you, Derek Bembry for our motto.)

If each of us helped another American to vote, and each of them encouraged another American to apply for their absentee ballot (and so on), you can imagine the impact. So, keep those Vote from Abroad cards handy, take a shift at a Vote from Abroad stand, phone our members to remind them to vote--  the list of how you can make an impact goes on.

The Frankfurt Chapter team wishes you all a happy New Year. It will be even happier when we restore the White House and Congress to a more workable democracy.

Thanks for being part of the Power,
Barb Chap

* * *

Upcoming Events: Bring an American With You…

Vote From Abroad Info Stand, Saturday, January 18^th 12pm to 4pm
Hauptwache, Zeil corner of Liebfrauenstraße

Take an hour shift, meet lots of nice people, provide information and help them request an absentee ballot.

Would you prefer to be in the background? You can still join in the fun. T-shirts and hoodie jackets are available for us to raise donations. And you could bake some Cookies for Cash.

An info stand a month? Certainly, at bigger events. At the markets? In other cities? It’s just a matter of how many active members can initiate and participate.

Gießen Meet and Greet: Saturday, February 1^st or 8^th TBA

700+ Americans live in the Gießen/Marburg area, and the enthusiastic members there are forming a group to get to know one another and to take an active part in encouraging Americans to vote. Exact details will come soon. Thanks for your patience.

Planned Meet and Greet Events in other Chapter cities:

We want our DAG Frankfurt members – no matter where they live - to have the opportunity to meet one another, discuss, and make a difference in 2020. Plans are also underway for get-togethers around Epstein, Bad Homburg and Aschaffenburg.

If you live outside of Frankfurt proper, you can help us to find the right location, and we will contact the people around you. We need everyone’s vote in 2020 to put Democrats in office! Email: [email protected]

Future Frankfurt Activities and Meetings:

• February 13^th - Chapter Meeting
• March 3^rd and 7^th - Global President Primary polling. Please, consider being part of the teams led by Stacey and Carl.
• March 12^th - Chapter meeting. How does the candidate field look now?
• March, date TBA: Potluck, fun social with serious discussion. 

Other Democrats Abroad Events:

DA Germany Annual Meeting: January 24-26^th 

In Munich. This will be a critical time for our Get out the Vote effort, and we need all hands on deck!  More information and registration here.

 Get Involved with DAG Frankfurt!

Our Vote from Abroad public activities are limited only by the number of volunteers we have. You can make a difference in many ways – large or small – to help Democrats win the Presidential, Congressional, and state elections in 2020. Come to a meeting and/or become a volunteer. Short on time? Please think about contributing. DA runs totally on donations.

Or contact Barb Chap, Chapter Chair, directly if you have an idea, want to learn more about the Frankfurt Chapter, or be part of the Frankfurt organizational team: [email protected]

Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you soon.

The DA Frankfurt Chapter provides a space for you to meet with your compatriots to discuss and debate the issues of the day, and to volunteer to help elect Democrats to change our country for the better. 

Join us! 

Upcoming Events:  

17th November: Black Caucus Brunch
21st November: Chapter Meeting – Impeachment Debate
12th December: Holiday Celebration
16^th January 2020: Chapter Meeting – 2020 Strategy
24th-26th January 2020: DA Germany Annual General Meeting (AGM) 

Show Your Colors:  Get your Democrats Abroad T-Shirt, Hoodie or Jacket

Democrats Abroad and Vote from Abroad t-shirts, hoodies, and hoodie jackets are now available. Your order will raise much needed funds to help us get out the vote.  Place your order here:

What’s Coming Up? Interesting events-- bring another American with you!

Black Caucus Brunch Sunday November 17^th

10-14:00, Depot 1899, Textorstrasse 33, 60594 Frankfurt

Join Germany's Black Caucus for its inaugural Sunday brunch. This event is open to everyone. We’ll eat, drink, discuss and plan for the 2020 elections. Brunch will be a breakfast buffet and will cost 16.90€ per person. Children aged 5 and under eat for free, and children 6-11 years old are half price.

An RSVP would be appreciated. Next Brunch: December 15^th

Frankfurt Chapter Meeting: Thursday, November 21^st 

 Impeachment: Pro and Con, a Membership Discussion: Impeachment proceedings are heating up! Join us at our next chapter meeting, where we’ll start with a quick update of what’s happening.

Share your thoughts in a lively and cordial debate about why impeachment is a good or bad idea. And also catch up on Frankfurt Chapter news and business. Whatever happens in the next several days, we’ll have a lot to talk about. Come with your opinion.

Time: 7pm - 9pm
Location: SPD Haus 
Fischerfeldstraße 7-11
60311 Frankfurt

Get social!   Meet us at 5:30pm for dinner before the meeting and/or drinks after the meeting. Getting there at 6:00pm still gives you time to order a delicious meal before heading to the SPD Haus.

Time: 5:30pm
Location: Moloko 
Kurt-Schumacher-Strasse 1
60311 Frankfurt
Corner of Schöne Aussicht and Alte Brücke (5-minute walk to SPD Haus)