Our Platform
37th DISTRICT DEMOCRATS PLATFORM
As Democrats we believe our society has a fundamental responsibility to create a better future for our children and future generations. We fundamentally desire a more just society, a robust and sustainable economy, peaceful relations among nations, and a cleaner environment that does not imperil the planet. In pursuit of these ideals we are committed to the following principles which we find fundamental to a sound democracy and a moral society.
Civil and Human Rights: The rights guaranteed by our Constitution and by international human rights law are at the heart of the American identity and should not be compromised for any reason. Their preservation requires our vigorous defense. We oppose discrimination of all kinds, and believe that those who suffer the burden of discrimination must be afforded the legal and economic opportunities to overcome such injustices and we oppose laws that discriminate based on race, national origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, economic status, physical or mental challenges, marital status, or political affiliation.
Economic Justice and Tax Fairness: We are committed to creating strong communities based on fairness, opportunity and prosperity for all. We support economic policies and business practices that promote the creation of living-wage jobs, the right of employees to bargain collectively, and the creation of sustainable economic growth that does not damage our environment.
Education: A free, universal public school system is the backbone of our democratic society. We support excellent quality public education, pre-school through university, with equal access for all because universal access to excellent schools is the surest path to equality, opportunity, prosperity, and the continuing preservation of our democratic heritage.
Environment and Energy: Our well-being and very survival depend on worldwide clean air, clean water, safe food, and sustainable ecosystems. Environmental protections strengthen our economy. Reducing our dependence on fossil fuels is key to achieving better communities.
Foreign Policy and National Security: The United States should lead by example and work within the world community in a spirit of peace, cooperation, generosity and democracy.
Government and Political Reform: We are committed to a democracy that encourages maximum participation, a voting process that is fair, transparent, and open to all citizens, and a principle that requires responsibility by both voters and those they elect.
Health Care: Health care is a basic human right. Our government should assure, and guarantee by law, accessible and affordable health care for all.
Human Services: A caring community provides a safety net of social services to meet people’s basic needs so they can attain their full potential, especially those on the margins of society— children, the elderly, and people who are impoverished, homeless, mentally ill, disabled, or living with addictions.
Immigration: Immigrants strengthen America. All immigrants should be afforded full human rights and a fair, safe, and timely path to legal status.
Labor: We believe in the dignity of work and demand fair wages and benefits in return. We insist on the right of all workers to join labor unions, to bargain collectively, and to take part in setting their working conditions.
Military: We pledge support to our troops and honor to our veterans who act in the service of our country. Washington citizens have always answered their country’s call to duty, and we are proud of our military contributions to the nation.
As passed by 2010 37th Legislative District Caucus Attendees, March 14, 2010
