In this Issue:
- Last time we spoke …
- Applications are now open for the Class of 2027!
- Speaking of going from zero to sixty!
- WAIDF Seahawks Night | October 25, 2026!
- Seeking input for 2027 class speakers and presenters
- Democracy needs every voice
- Thank You 2026 Program Supporters!
Last time we spoke …
If I’m getting this right, last time we spoke, you were either on vacation or enjoying a “breather from the primary.” Then, like clockwork, you (and everyone else) went from zero to sixty. Then, you probably pushed too hard trying to enjoy that final bit of summer on Labor Day Weekend. Come Monday, you found yourself again steeped in a flurry of work.
It’s not just the people whose lives are tied to election cycles and legislative sessions who are feeling a kind of way; it’s everyone. I hear it from all directions.
‘Tis the season, am I right? Not just of the year. Life, too. And I’m not gonna lie, it’s more than a little scary right now. Knowing what you know, and don’t know? Sometimes feeling like you’re hitting your head against a brick wall? Like the whole world is on your shoulders, and you’re trying, but it’s never enough? It often feels way too big. Bigger than your capacity to step in and make it all better.
But as I’ve had these same conversations with alumni and friends of WAIDF, something feels different. I am inspired. I am reminded that every bit of our work and every ounce of your effort is worth it. And despite the setbacks, challenges, honest frustrations, and the cancellations, it is our collective persistence, resistance, and assistance that sets our people apart.
And it’s time to bring more people into the fold….
-Emily
Applications are now open for the Class of 2027!
The Washington Institute for a Democratic Future is now accepting applications for its 2027 fellowship program.
WAIDF is a six-month leadership development experience for emerging Democratic and civic leaders ready to make an impact.
The program has helped launch and advance the careers of hundreds of Washington electeds and movers and shakers. From local organizers and policy advocates to elected officials and campaign leaders. The program is ideal for people early in their careers or those looking to take their first step into public service, campaigns, or advocacy.
Early bird pricing is $50 if you apply by Tuesday, November 10, and $75 if you apply by Tuesday, November 17, 2026.
Speaking of going from zero to sixty!
The WAIDF Extended Learning crew headed to Lopez Island, Washington, for ferries, farmers, and fireside chats. We discussed the impacts that its unique rural environment, travel challenges, and wealth gap have on housing, food, health care, the economy, and so much more. It’s a common phrase that on Lopez Island, you either have three houses or three jobs. Yet, there are incredible people working hard to make life better for everyone and take care of all those who call the Island home.
We had an incredible time learning from Lauren Bigelow, Executive Director of San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild, who knew all things food, farms, and the ag economy. We received an amazing tour of the Common Ground Co-Op from Lopez Community Land Trust’s Executive Director, Sandy Bishop, and Stewardship Manager, Clara Costa. We got a warm welcome from San Juan County Commissioner Jane Fuller and met with Lopez Island School Superintendent Brady Smith, a conversation from which all of us came away with steps to improve and support state education funding.
We shopped until we dropped at the Lopez Island Farmers Market where we connected with the local organizers for the No Hate in Washington State campaign, joined a local “No Kings” rally, and toured Midnight’s Farm with Faith Van De Putte and David Bill. There, we not only learned about their composting work, farm stand, and process for helping feed the island, but also had deep conversations on the current state of politics, the world, and each of our roles in our shared progress.
We met with Contessa Downey, Household Supports & Tribal Partnerships Director, and the Visions and Voices Team at the Lopez Island Family Resources Center, who furthered our understanding of Lopez Island dynamics and shared their work to ensure everyone has access to essential resources and the support needed for a strong, healthy community.
And this weekend would not have been possible without the inspiration and warm welcome from quilt historian and artist Mary Bywater Cross and her son, newly retired history teacher Steve Cross. Thank you for all your work coordinating this trip, connecting us with amazing local leaders, sharing your knowledge of the Island’s history, experiences, and perspectives, and keeping us well-fed!
Having a little FOMO from all our nerd camping? Next up is Chicago in late 2027. We’ll visit the Barack Obama Presidential Center and do so much more! Interested? Let us know HERE.
Need your fix? Check out the trip on the gram here.
WAIDF Seahawks Night | October 25, 2026!
Join WAIDF alumni, friends, and family for our 2026 Gridiron Day on October 25, when our Seattle Seahawks take on the Kansas City Chiefs.
We have 30 seats reserved in Section 319, Row R, Seats 4-17, and Section 319, Row S, Seats 1-16.
Tickets are $160, and kickoff is at 5:20 p.m. Fingers crossed for a special appearance by T-Swift!
Seeking input for 2027 class speakers and presenters
Have you recently connected with someone and thought, “The WAIDF Program needs to include this person!” Did you find yourself deep in conversation or immersed in their incredible story, ideas, advocacy, policy, or campaign work? Well, we want to hear from you! And don’t be shy, recommend yourself!
Let us know who’s been missing and who we should consider putting in front of our 2027 Fellowship Class. All ideas are welcome, and there are 11 incredible weeks across the state with availability. Check out the 2027 Calendar Here.
Democracy needs every voice
WAIDF was born from a moment of challenge and hope.
A small group of organizers and young leaders came together in 1997 with a bold idea to rebuild the bench of leadership and prepare a new generation to serve with integrity and heart.
Help us continue that work and raise $10,000 by October 31 through a one-time or monthly contribution.
Thank You 2026 Program Supporters!
Thank you to our program sponsors, alumni, and board members for making this year’s cohort programming and programs possible.
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