Young Democrats across the state of Florida will convene at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront in Jacksonville, Florida on June 3-5, 2016. The Florida Young Democrats (FYD) is the official statewide federation of the Young Democrats of America. FYD is a political organization dedicating to building the future of our party by developing the next generation of Democratic leaders and ensuring youth turnout in local, state and national elections. Focusing on bench building and training will be among the primary objectives of the conference. 

Young Democrats, activists, community leaders and more will join together for three days of current event panels, leadership skill trainings, and multiple networking opportunities. More than 100 young Democrats are anticipated to be in Jacksonville for the weekend.

“With the election less than six month away, it is critical that Young Democrats come together to learn, plan and leave fired up to take action and help Democrats win up and down the ballot in this election and in every election to come,” said Ricky Nettina, President of the Florida Young Democrats.

Some of the panels include local experts on the human rights ordinances, criminal justice reform, and environmental justice. US Senate candidates will also be present and most exciting of all is the keynote address which will be provided by Congresswoman Gwen Graham. Congresswoman Graham is a rumored 2018 Gubernatorial candidate that could follow in the footsteps of her father who was a two-term Governor and three-term US Senator from Florida. The elder Graham has returned to prominence in recent weeks with discussions of Saudi Arabia and Al-Qaeda. Senator Graham served as Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee when the 9/11 attacks on American soil took place. 

The event being held in Jacksonville is indicative of the growing importance of Duval County and the return to prominence of Jacksonville for creating a Democratic majority in the state.

“The Jacksonville Young Democrats (JYD) are pleased and excited to host this year’s FYD 2016 State Convention. As the largest city in the state and fastest growing city in the country, it’s our responsibility to ensure Jacksonville’s voters are productive and civically engaged,” stated Kris Estanga, President of the Jacksonville Young Democrats. “We believe the ‘Bold City’ has the diversity, leadership potential and skilled youth to make it happen. We are excited to show off our city to the rest of the state.”

Registration is open online at www.ElectFYD.com/fyd2016 until May 27th for $60 and $70 until June 1st. The room block is available until Friday, May 20. More information is available at www.ElectFYD.com.