About QCYD
Queens County Young Democrats (QCYD) is an organization of Democrats between the ages of 16 and 36, dedicated to advancing the highest principles of the Democratic Party and inspiring the participation of all people in politics, public policy and service.
QCYD is especially focused on becoming the starting point for every young person looking to get involved in local, state, and national politics in Queens. We do this by inspiring, educating, and involving young people who want to make a difference.
QCYD members help elect Democrats at the city, state, and federal level, and also hold elected representatives accountable to fight for democratic issues.
QCYD is committed to:
Political Action
QCYD actively supports Democratic candidates and causes in the fights that matter most. Through organizing hundreds of volunteer shifts, speaking to thousands of voters at their doors and on the phone, and collecting signatures for critical ballot drives, we have made a name for ourselves as Queens' boots on the ground in local, state, and federal elections. QCYD understands the importance of on-the-ground field efforts, and empowering and engaging young people in Queens to make a significant difference in this state and county.
QCYD is committed to organizing for action to push back on any agenda that espouses hatred, bigotry, and intolerance. We have Marched on Washington after Trumps election, stood with Astoria's Muslim community, rallied for LGBT rights at Stonewall, and joined the Stonewall Democratic Club during Queens’ annual St. Pat’s for All Parade. We will continue to stand firm on the ideals that define us as Democrats and as New Yorkers.
Education
Without truly understanding policies that inform Democratic principles and how they are applied to the world around us, we cannot be effective advocates for reform and accountability. QCYD is renowned for its exemplary educational programming and all-star expert panelists.
QCYD has made numerous efforts to register younger voters and engage them in the political process in high school. We cannot continue the tradition of democratic advocacy without ensuring that we are engaging the next generation of activists and community leaders.
Networking
As the phrase goes: come for the issues, stay for the people. QCYD is an inclusive family of activists, politicos, policy wonks, staffers, and community members.
Our wide ranging network of members works very hard to foster a sense of community. Networking is great, but only if supplemented by genuine relationships that encourage collaboration and camaraderie.
Volunteerism
We work to give back to our communities through beautification projects and voter registration drives. To date, we have registered over 1000 Queens voters at events such as the Jamaica JAMS festival and on college campuses across the borough, and volunteered at Roy Wilkins and Astoria Parks to beautify open spaces in concert with New York City Parks and local elected officials.
We have also organized several charity basketball games pitting elected officials against young democrats, raising thousands of dollars for food pantries and youth-driven organizations in Queens.