Our Principles

The Harris County Young Democrats stand for reclaiming the Texas Democratic Party's historic purpose of empowering grassroots Democrats to achieve a more just society. We further stand for returning our party and state government to the people by: Curtailing the influence of corporation and powerful moneyed interests in diluting the power of the people; Advancing basic human rights and protecting civil liberties; Enacting electoral reform and expanding grassroots, low-income, youth, and minority participation in our party and government; Offering universal healthcare for Texans; Ratifying a moratorium on the death penalty; Ending the incarceration of petty drug users; Providing quality universal public education including early childhood and higher education and access to vocational training; Enacting reforms to enable workers both a living wage and the right to unionize workplaces without unfair coercion or manipulation by employers; Protecting clean air and water; and Ensuring fair trade for Texans without loss of democracy or local sovereignty.

HCYD Awards

"Politics is what we dare to imagine." The Wellstone Award is given annually to political leaders who uphold the principles of the Harris County Young Democrats and embody the beliefs of the late Senator from Minnesota. 2006 Honoree (presented in 2007):  Hon. Hubert Vo 2005 Honoree (presented in 2006):  Hon. Gordon Quan 2004 Honorees (presented in 2005):  Hon. Garnet Coleman, Hon. Jessica Farrar, Hon. Scott Hochberg, Hon. Melissa Noriega and Hon. Rick Noriega 2003 Honorees:  Hon. Sue Lovell and Hon. Annise Parker The President's Award is given annually for consistent leadership, continued commitment to fundamental Democratic principles and relentless dedication to social justice. 2006 Honoree (presented in 2007):  Chris Bell and Hon. Jessica Farrar 2005 Honoree (presented in 2006):  Hon. Garnet Coleman 2004 Honoree (presented in 2005):  Erica Contreras The Young Democrat of the Year Award is given annually to a YD for youthful leadership, commitment to fundamental Democratic priciples and dedication to social justice.  2006 Honorees (presented in 2007):  Amber Goodwin and Bill Kelly 2005 Honoree (presented in 2006):  Hon. Ana Hernandez 2003 Honorees:  King Malaki Sims Thank you to the Cassie Goodin Volunteers of the Year for their outstanding volunteerism:  2006 Honorees (presented in 2007):  Conrad Camit, Jessica Cartwright, Eddie Chism, Rachel Consorte and Matt Jenkins 2005 Honorees (presented in 2006):  Emily Cunningham, Rachel Consorte, Eric Goff, Max Cardenas and Amber Goodwin