NEWS RELEASE

July 6, 2008

For Immediate Release

For More Information Contact:

Bill Bianchi: 773/935-3346 PDAChicago@gmail.com

Progressive Democrats Conference Draws

Illinois Progressives, Activists to Historic Farm

“More and Better Democrats,” was the theme of the first annual statewide conference hosted by Progressive Democrats of America –Illinois (PDA-IL), the state coordinating committee for PDA chapters. The day-long event attracted over 70 progressive activists to the historic Marvel Davis Farm in Big Rock, Illinois, June 28.

Noted journalist and author Stephen Kinzer keynoted the event, which featured workshops, panels and the inter-active participation of progressive activists from around the state.

Bill Bianchi, Chair of Chicago PDA and co-chair of the event, said the conference was designed to bring people together who are frustrated with a broken political system. “Democratic majorities in Springfield have not pushed for a progressive agenda of change in Illinois, and a Democratic controlled Congress and Senate have not fixed the economy or brought change to Washington,” said Bianchi. “We need more Democrats, yes, but we also need better Democrats who are willing to serve the people of our great state and country.”

In addition to PDA, groups attending the conference included Democracy for America (DFA), MoveOn Council of Fox Valley, Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), Fox Valley Peace and Justice, DuPage Democrats, Greater Chicago Caucus, Illinois Campaign to Abolish the Death Penalty and several local Democratic precinct captains.

Several candidates attended the event, seeking support. They included a representative from Bob Abboud’s 16^th District Congressional campaign, State Representative candidate, Dennis Grosskopf and Aurora Mayoral candidate, Stephanie Kifowit.

To date, the organization has endorsed one State Representative candidate, Rachel Shattuck, who is challenging Republican Representative, Tim Schmitz in Illinois’ 49^th District.

Conference co-chair Laurel Bault, of District 14 PDA added, “We had several progressive candidates attending, and many active PDA members, but it was the attendees from the general public who told us—emphatically-- that Progressives stand exactly where the majority of the American people stand.”

Jim Luebke, chair of District 14 PDA, noted that the opportunity to host the event on the group’s home territory was a bonus. “It allowed us to ensure that many of our members were able to attend and hear perspectives from more experienced groups. Since we are less than a year old, this helps us find our feet,” said Luebke.

For conference photos and more on Kinzer, visit the organization’s Illinois website at www.pdaillinois.org and for more on the organization’s philosophy and structure; see the PDA national website at www.pdamerica.org.

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