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!

Democrats Abroad Spain Elections Coming Soon
By Doris Stanger, DA Spain Election Committee

In 2025, Democrats Abroad Spain will hold elections for the Executive Committee, which occur every two years. This year’s Annual General Meeting and elections will take place online on March 1. Both the meeting and voting will be conducted virtually.

The Election Committee consists of Doris Stanger, Kathy Tullos (who has termed out as Chair of DA Spain), and Andrew Anderson.

The positions on the Executive Committee are as follows:

• Chair
• Vice-Chair
• Treasurer
• Secretary
• Counsel
• DPCA Voting Representative
• DPCA Non-Voting Representatives

Are you interested in running for a position? Or would you like to learn more about how DA Spain operates? Keep an eye on your email for updates and further details from the Election Committee in the coming weeks.

Mark Your Calendar for the 2025 Annual General Meeting of Democrats Abroad Spain!  

This year’s AGM will take place on March 1, from 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m., and will be held online. This is your opportunity to learn about the vital work being done by DA Spain, and we ask you to help shape the future of our organization and make your voice heard.  

In the coming weeks, we’ll send an email announcement to all members of DA Spain who have not opted out of email communications. This announcement will include an RSVP link, which you’ll need to complete in order to receive the meeting login information.  

Here’s what’s on the agenda: 

1. Updates from DA Spain officers and leaders of our chapters, precincts, and caucuses, highlighting the valuable work we accomplished last year.  
2. The election of new national officers to lead us over the next two years.  
3. A vote on proposed amendments to our national By-Laws, shaping the way we operate and advocate for change.  

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.  

Many states require that you request your ballot annually. Requesting your ballot takes about 5 minutes.

Chapter, Precinct, and Local News

Following months of exhausting GOTV work and an election-night party that was epic, despite the outcome), DA Barcelona kicked off the holiday season with a mid-December get-together at one of our favorite watering holes, CocoVail. A great time was had by all, and we were delighted to welcome some new members. 

Join us for International Voter Registration Day - Happy Hour & Socializing on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 06:00 PM Madrid Time at RARE Burgers & More. Join us for help registering from abroad -- or just to chat and connect. RSVP here!

Join us for DA Barcelona Movie Night on Sunday, January 26, at 17:00. We will be screening "Dave" (1993), a feel-good political comedy starring Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver. When an ordinary guy steps into the role of President, he shows how decency and humor can shake up Washington. Expect laughs, heart, and a dash of idealism!  RSVP here!

As we head into the new year and a new political reality, our first event on the calendar is a Book Club meeting on February 22, where we will discuss Timothy Snyder's essential resistance handbook, *On Tyranny*. Following the (somewhat) formal book discussion, we'll head to a local pizzeria for more conversation and fellowship. Please join us for one or both parts of the evening!  RSVP for the Book Club here. RSVP for the pizza dinner here.

2025 is an odd-numbered year, which means chapter elections are coming up! What better way to contribute to the resistance and help return our country to sanity than by getting involved with Democrats Abroad? Please consider running for chapter chair, vice chair, or secretary. The annual general meeting and elections will be held later this spring—stay tuned for more details. To learn about running for office or assisting with the election process, contact us at [email protected].

Keep an eye on the DA Barcelona events page (https://www.democratsabroad.org/es-barcelona_events) for upcoming gatherings, both in-person and online, including the revival of our popular Zoom series, La Lucha Continúa. To stay up-to-date with breaking news and developments, join the DA Barcelona Signal group here.

The Democrats Abroad Madrid Chapter remains steadfast in its commitment to growth, excellence, and expanding membership across the Madrid region.

A cornerstone of our efforts has been the production of a high-quality newsletter—a comprehensive resource that highlights our activities, including voter registration drives, volunteer initiatives, phonebanking campaigns, monthly meetings, progress updates, and our roadmap for future goals. Its visually engaging format ensures that even members unable to attend meetings can still feel connected to the energy and synergy cultivated by our dedicated team.

From database updates to phonebanking and promotional campaigns, the Madrid Chapter has consistently showcased the unwavering dedication of its members. Volunteers rallied together to achieve critical milestones, from the Presidential Primaries to supporting the broader efforts of Democrats Abroad Spain.

This dedication extended to participation in significant events, including the Democratic National Convention, the nomination of delegates and representatives, Pride celebrations, Fourth of July festivities, and the Presidential Election Night event. A highlight of the year was our 20th Anniversary/Thanksgiving Celebration, which honored the civic contributions of past presidents and members whose efforts have directly influenced electoral outcomes submitted to the Democratic National Committee (DNC).

Our year of gratitude and achievements concluded with a festive Christmas Ugly Sweater Competition, featuring games, recognition of our team’s outstanding accomplishments, and gifts from Santa for everyone in attendance. Each member received a token of appreciation, symbolizing the diversity and unity that define the Madrid Chapter.

Today, we proudly celebrate the extraordinary support of our members—through their donations, volunteer efforts, and collective spirit. As the saying goes, "If we wish to go fast, we travel alone… but if we wish to go far, we travel together." Our journey has been one of collaboration and shared purpose, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.

Malaga Precinct
By Carey Ramos

Instead of the big celebration we had planned at the end of 2024, Democratic Voters in Malaga came together shortly after the election to share an evening of connection and messages of hope.  

In 2025, we will continue to grow and strengthen our vibrant community — expanding geographically to reach other parts of the province and demographically to engage our younger, non-retired members.  

As important issues and causes arise throughout the year, we will decide collectively which ones to prioritize. Some members will step into leadership roles to develop strategies and tactics to address these challenges. Together, we can make a difference and support those who will be most adversely impacted by the incoming administration.

Sevilla 
By Kevin Dodson

Following the election, the Sevilla Chapter hosted a dinner to commiserate over the disappointing results. That same evening, we enjoyed a concert by an American singer-songwriter at Uprooted Theater, a local venue established by a fellow expat.  

Our monthly First Friday social gatherings have continued to thrive, providing a space for connection and discussion. December’s meeting was especially lively and thought-provoking, focusing on the path forward and how we can navigate the challenges ahead.  

We’re also thrilled to welcome to our chapter a new member, Dr. Lauren Tucker. An active writer and a founder of Indivisible Chicago, she also publishes regularly on Medium and Bluesky under the name “DoWhatMatters.” Her insightful articles address issues central to our current political crisis and serve as excellent starting points for reflection and discussion. Be sure to check out her work on those platforms, support her writing, and help spread the word.  

Looking ahead, our first organizing meeting of the year will take place on Jan 14. During this meeting, we’ll create concrete action plans for 2025 and discuss how we can use this year to deepen our knowledge on topics that matter most to our members. 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 Georgie Grossman  

DA Valencia is back in 2025 with our two favorite monthly gatherings – First Friday Coffee and Third Thursday Happy Hour.

Due to the holidays, January's First Friday Coffee will take place on Jan 10. In November, we relocated First Friday Coffee to Casa Mundo GASTROSPORT, just down the paseo from our former location, which has unfortunately closed. Look down Calle del Dr. Romagosa towards El Corte Inglés, and you’ll find us on the left, just before you reach Calle de Perez Bayer. Join us at 10:30 a.m. and plan to stick around for the leadership meeting at 11:15 a.m. to hear about what's planned for the new year. RSVP for First Friday Coffee today!

Third Thursday Happy Hour will be held on Jan. 16. As always, we enjoy exploring bars in different neighborhoods, so keep an eye on our Facebook page for the location. While you’re there, join the group to stay updated on the latest DA Valencia news.

Looking ahead to this spring’s Annual General Meeting, DA Valencia’s leadership team will be stepping down, as they have served the maximum two terms. This opens up an exciting opportunity for new leadership with fresh ideas to guide our chapter forward. We’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Let us know if you’re interested in running for Chair, Vice Chair, or Secretary.

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!

Caucus News

Women's Caucus
By Doris Stanger

Is there hope for ERA?

It's now the beginning of 2025 and the Equal Rights Amendment is still not published in the U.S. Constitution. The only chance for anything to happen this year is if President Biden instructs the U.S. Archivist to publish it. Many organizations, including Democrats Abroad, are calling on him to do so. The likely last chance date for it to happen is January 15, five days before he leaves office - see www.democratsabroad.org/era for details.

The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was passed by Congress in 1972 and sent to the states for ratification. In January 2020, Virginia became the 38th state to ratify it. The ERA has met all the Constitutional requirements to be the 28th Amendment. Unfortunately, under President Trump, the Department of Justice issued a memo to the Archivist not to publish it just shortly before it was fully ratified. As a result, it is 'stuck' in limbo. President Biden has deferred to Congress to declare it valid but although the House passed a resolution, the Senate could only garner 52 votes, not enough to meet the 60 vote filibuster threshold.

So, here we are at the beginning of 2025 and President Biden has the power to do something but so far, has not. Even the American Bar Association has called upon him to publish it.

If nothing happens before January 20, it is likely the ERA will not be published for years, if not decades. It's already been 102 years since it was first introduced. Of course, it should have been part of the Constitution since 1776!

Please join me in making an all-out effort to encourage President Biden to do what is right for American women, in fact all Americans, by including the ERA in the Constitution before he leaves office.

Shari Temple
ERA Task Force Chair
[email protected]

Join Us for the Next Books Abroad Event: Lives of Girls and Women by Alice Monro 

Celebrate the legacy of Nobel Prize-winning author Alice Munro with our next Books Abroad selection, Lives of Girls and Women. This remarkable novel offers page after page of brilliant, thought-provoking writing as it explores the journey of girls becoming women and the enduring challenges of inequality.  

Set in a rural small town in Ontario, Canada, but resonating universally, the story prompts us to ask: Are girls truly being prepared for their futures? Are their horizons expanding, or are they constrained by societal expectations?  

This virtual event will take place on Feb. 2 at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern time). Alice Munro passed away on May 13, 2024, leaving behind a rich literary legacy. Let’s pay tribute to her profound impact on literature by reading and discussing one of her most celebrated works. Lives of Girls and Women is available at your favorite bookstore or on Amazon.com.  

RSVP today and don’t miss this opportunity to delve into Munro’s extraordinary storytelling! 

LGBTQ+ Caucus
By John Murphy

From Trivia Nights to Shared Stories: How We’re Creating Light in the Darkness

The Madrid LGBTQ+ Caucus celebrates another year of building community through our vibrant monthly gatherings. Our political trivia nights have become a cornerstone of connection, filling China Mandarina—our host restaurant—with laughter, friendly competition, and an atmosphere of warmth and empowerment here in the heart of Madrid. Special screening events featuring politically charged LGBTQ+ content, held in collaboration with The America Institute in Chamberí and online, have given us treasured opportunities to honor our culture and history while engaging in deep, meaningful conversations that remind us why we stand together.  

We know that being far from the U.S., especially during uncertain political times, can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re so grateful for every member who shows up, shares their story, and strengthens our community with their presence and authenticity.  

As we look ahead to 2025, we’re reaching out with hope and open arms. Like so many, we carry heavy hearts, but we believe in the transformative power of unity to create light in the darkness. We’re dreaming up exciting new collaborations with other Democrats Abroad caucuses and local LGBTQ+ organizations, while staying true to our commitment to be here for one another. Together, we are family—a source of support, strength, and resilience.  

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.

Let’s make 2025 a year of healing, hope, and positive change. Spread the word and invite your friends to a DA Spain meeting! Let them know we’re here, open and inclusive. Wishing you all a Feliz Año Nuevo!   

Democrats Abroad Spain

This newsletter comes to you by:  

• Daniel Garcia, Content Director
• Andrea Host-Barth, Technical Producer 
• Albion Land, Copy Editor

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!

MAKE A SMALL DONATION

Donations to Democrats Abroad go directly to registering Americans and get out the vote (GOTV) activities such as phone banking, postcards, and most importantly, social media. Democrats Abroad is an incredible investment in our Democracy because it is 100% volunteer led and organized. Every euro or dollar you give supports our work to elect Democrats who will fight to make a better life for all Americans.