Our Platform
The Young Democrats of Orange County are dedicated to representing the interests of young people and implementing Democratic values within our community. This year, the YDOC is pleased to announce our legislative priorities for the 2023-2024 Legislative Session. The following priorities and bills at the state and local level seek to resolve issues facing hardworking families and young people statewide and especially within Orange County and the Hudson Valley.
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Protecting the right to vote 🗳️
The right to vote is a cornerstone of American democracy and a privilege afforded to all citizens. However, in recent times, we have witnessed a disturbing trend in which this right has been systematically undermined by Republicans in an effort to suppress progressive voters. Such legislation include limiting voting by mail and decreasing the amount of polling places in order to impact the voting count. We must put fourth legislation to stop anyone from limiting our right to vote.
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Student loan cancelation 🎓
For far too long, pursuing a higher education has burdened and punished Americans with insurmountable debt. This issue not only affects current students but will also have long-lasting impacts on future generations. It is time for college to be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.The cost of education should not be a barrier to entry for those who aspire to further their knowledge and skillset. We must work towards a society where every American has the opportunity to attend college without the looming threat of financial hardship.
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Gun Control 🛡️
Students across the country K-12 and Colleges have been under attack by mass shootings. There has been 160 mass shootings across the United States. To both young children, teenagers and adults this is a complete failure to every single one of them. Why must they be raised in a country that fails to protect its own kids from the clear danger which is the gun. There is absolutely no reason why gun control legislation hasn’t been passed
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Internet safety 🔒
We believe that internet privacy and safety are important issues that need to be addressed. In today's digital age, our personal information is constantly being collected and used for various purposes without our knowledge or consent. We need to ensure that internet users have control over their personal data and are protected from cyber threats such as hacking, phishing, and identity theft. We also need to promote digital literacy and responsible online behavior to create a safer and more secure internet for everyone. No one should have taken advantage of as many young people are on the internet.
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LGBTQIA+ issues 🏳️🌈
At the core of our values as Democrats is the belief in equality and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We reject any attempt to undermine the rights and dignity of the LGBTQIA+ community, and we recognize the harm caused by Republican efforts to discriminate against this community. As Young Democrats, we are committed to protecting and strengthening the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the state of New York, whether that means advocating for legislation that safeguards their rights or supporting LGBTQIA+ organizations and individuals. We believe that everyone should be able to express themselves in ways that make them comfortable, and we stand in solidarity with those who have been marginalized or discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
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Affordable Housing 🏠
With the rising cost of rent, many people are forced to make difficult choices between paying for housing and meeting other basic needs. We believe that access to affordable housing is a fundamental human right, and we are committed to advocating for policies that ensure everyone can have a safe and stable place to call home, without having to choose between food and shelter.