Who We Are - Our Democratic History

The Democratic Party of Lane County is a genuine grass roots organization. More than three-hundred of your fellow citizens volunteer their time, talents and treasure to promote Democratic candidates and causes, creating a better community for all of us.

At the start of the 21st Century, our Democratic Party can look back on a proud history a history not just of a political organization but of a national vision. It is a vision based on the strength and power of millions of economically empowered, socially diverse and politically active Americans.

Over two hundred years ago, our Party's founders decided that wealth and social status were not an entitlement to rule. They believed that wisdom and compassion could be found within every individual and a stable government must be built upon a broad popular base.

It is a vision Oregon Democrats share and promote vigorously, but it is not new. Oregon's progressive leanings were evident even before statehood.

In 1844, sixteen years before the civil war, the territory of Oregon outlawed slavery.

That tradition continued with Oregon statehood in 1859. Our first governor, John Whitaker (1859-1862), was a Democrat, as were four of our first six governors.

Women's suffrage won an early victory in Oregon, when the state legislature approved the vote for woman in 1912, nearly a decade before the passage of the 19th amendment to the US Constitution.

In the 150 years since statehood, Oregon Democrats have often been among the first to champion key issues of national importance, including:

• Environmental protection
• Universal health care
• Protection of endangered species
• Rights of Native Americans
• Anti-pollution laws
• Common-sense handgun controls
• Right-to-die legislation
• Same sex marriage

From Florence on the coast to Oakridge in the East, the Democratic Party of Lane County continues Oregon's progressive traditions with a set of platform principles that guide us to be thoughtful stewards of our environment, to provide quality education for our children, to seek peaceful solutions to conflict, to defend individual rights, and to protect those who are unable to protect themselves.

If you are not already a member of your local Democratic Party, you can volunteer to help on a campaign, or contribute financially to help us promote our Democratic ideals.