WA Institute for a Democratic Future – February 25, 2026

In this Issue:

• A Message from Emily
• Join us for our 17th Annual Trivia Night & Silent Auction on March 19!
• Save the Date: Alumni Long Beach Weekend (April 24 – April 26)
• Host a fellow in your home or host an evening reception
• We’re bringing back our Jobs List-Serv!

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A Message from Emily

Programming is in full swing at the Washington Institute for a Democratic Future, and every single weekend, I am reminded why this work matters.

I continue to be in awe of our fellows, our alumni, and the local leaders who generously make time to share their experiences with us. What stands out most is the diversity of thought, even within progressive spaces. Our fellows are learning from one another, from the communities we visit across Washington (and yes, a little bit of Oregon), and from advocates and public servants navigating very different political landscapes and challenges.

The Democratic Party is not a monolith. That reality can sometimes feel messy. It can lead to spirited debate about priorities, strategy, and what deserves our loudest attention. But it is also our strength. When we take the time to truly listen to each other’s lived experiences, to understand the pressures facing different regions and communities, and to reflect on how those realities shape perspective, we build something far more durable. That understanding shapes how we lead. It shapes how we collaborate. And it shapes how we move forward, together.

I invite you to join us for a weekend. Come meet the fellows. Host a reception in your community. Reconnect with your own journey in politics, government, or advocacy. Growth doesn’t stop once we have a title or a role. It continues when we stay curious, stay humble, and stay connected.

We are building leaders for a democratic future, and we are doing it together.

-Emily

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Join us for our 17th Annual Trivia Night & Silent Auction on March 19!

The Washington, D.C. trip is just around the corner, and the 2026 Fellows are hard at work preparing for their biggest fundraiser of the year.

Join us at Clock-Out Lounge for WAIDF’s 17th Annual Trivia Night & Silent Auction and help send the next generation of leaders to D.C. Compete for prizes, show off your smarts, and gather your smartest (or most competitive) friends for a night that is always equal parts fun and meaningful.

There are plenty of ways to get involved:

• Buy a ticket or build a team of six. Bring your friends, colleagues, or fellow alumni and claim trivia glory.
• Become an event co-host. Co-hosts receive a team of six plus six drink tickets, and the benefits grow as your sponsorship level increases.
• Donate a silent auction item Gift certificates, unique experiences, themed baskets, premium merchandise, curated art, professional services — we welcome it all. It’s a great way to support the Fellows while showcasing your organization. Got an idea? Email trivia@democraticfuture.org
• Give directly to the D.C. Fund.

Can’t attend? You can still make a difference. Contributions to the D.C. Fund go directly to the Fellows to help cover airfare, meals, transportation, professional attire, and other trip expenses.

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Save the Date: Alumni Long Beach Weekend (April 24 – April 26)

WAIDF will return to the Adrift Hotel in Long Beach, Washington, April 24–26. We’re planning a fantastic weekend of connection, reflection, and community, and we can’t wait to gather with alumni from across the state. Hotel details will be shared soon.

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Host a fellow in your home or host an evening reception

The Class of 2026 will be in Kitsap County this coming weekend!

Interested in joining us for a get-together to meet the class of 2026? Email emily@democraticfuture.org for updates on where we’ll be!

As fellows, staff, and board members travel the state on a tight budget, we rely on our amazing alumni, partners, and friends to help make this program accessible and welcoming.

That might be opening your home, sharing a meal, or hosting a casual gathering after a long day of learning. These are often the moments when connections deepen, and the WAIDF community truly shines.

As we plan the 2026 Fellowship year, we’d love to know if you’re interested in:

• Hosting one or more fellows in your home, and/or
• Hosting or co-hosting a relaxed Friday or Saturday evening reception

If you’re interested or want to learn more, please fill out the Program Hosting & Reception Interest Form below.

Every offer, big or small, helps keep this program accessible, affordable, and rooted in community. Thank you for being part of what makes WAIDF special.

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We’re bringing back our Jobs List-Serv!

We’re pleased to announce that we’re bringing back our WAIDF Jobs List-Serv!

To subscribe, either email jobs+subscribe@democraticfuture.org (no subject line or text in the body is necessary) or use this Google Form. If you choose the email option, you’ll receive a confirmation email, and your request will be approved shortly thereafter.