Represent

In light of all the criticism on this site, I wanted to post something that looked at solutions. Or more specifically, at a relatively new piece of infrastructure that seems to be working.

Exhibit A that money is being invested in programs that are expanding progressive capacity is Represent - Penn State's non-partisan voter registration/GOTV organization. Now, I know what many are probably thinking - non-partisan = not effective. But this groups seems to be non-partisan the way that the Center for American Progress is non-partisan.

The group was founded through the Young People For Fellowship program, a majority of its leadership is progressive or legitimately non-partisan, and the Penn State College Republicans refuse to participate in the program.

An examination of their programming shows some solid goals, creative tactics, and even more progressive ties.

Represent will also be hosting a variety of events throughout the fall that is meant to increase student awareness of the upcoming election.

"We are looking to do a 'rock the vote' charity event where a bunch of different bands will play," Cross said.

Represent will also be hosting the Pennsylvania Political Hip-Hop Convention in October that will be open to all Penn State students, Cross said.

. . .

Represent also works closely with the United States Student Association and the Pittsburgh League of Young Voters.

So you have a program funded by Young People For, giving money to College Democrats at Penn State, being used to do culturally-based GOTV work on campus, and coordinate with PA subsidiaries of the National Hip Hop Political Convention and the League of Young Voters.

There's a long way to go, and we'll have to see how successfully they GOTV, as well as what emerges from their coordination. One thing I'd like to see is a Campus Progress publication spring up at Penn State. But this is what the beginning of the young VLWC looks like.