Caucuses in the California College Democrats

What Is a Caucus?

Caucuses represent various identity-based or issue-based constituencies of CCD members and assist the Organization in targeted outreach and programming. They operate under the direct management of the Executive Board and provide a structured forum for focused advocacy within the broader CCD community.

Why Form a Caucus?

  • Amplify Voices: Ensure under-represented groups or issue-areas have a seat at the table.

  • Targeted Programming: Develop events, campaigns, and policy resolutions that speak directly to your constituency.

  • Structured Support: Leverage CCD’s leadership, communication channels, and resources to maximize impact.

How to Create a New Caucus

  1. Letter of Intent: Email the CCD President and Vice President of Membership outlining your caucus’s purpose and scope.

  2. Review & Approval: The Vice President of Membership presents your letter to the Executive Board. A two-thirds majority vote formally establishes the caucus, with the letter’s author serving as interim chair until the first election .

Leadership & Elections

  • Chair Election: Each caucus elects its Chair annually, following the same process as Executive Board elections (see Article III § G).

  • Interim Leadership: The letter’s author serves as interim Chair until the democratic election is held .

Responsibilities of Caucus Chairs

  • Quarterly Meetings: Host at least one caucus meeting every three months to maintain engagement.

  • Membership Growth: Recruit and sustain active membership within your constituency.

  • Semesterly Reports: Submit a report each semester to the Executive Board detailing:

    • Current membership roster

    • Meeting minutes

    • Upcoming plans and events

  • Leadership Delegation: Appoint deputies or sub-leads to support your work and share responsibilities.