Ward 12 Democratic Committee Bylaws
Governing Rules and Procedures for the Historic Roxbury Ward 12 Democratic Committee
Adopted: Ward 12 Democratic Committee
Last Updated: March 2019
Preamble
We, the Democratic Ward Committee of Ward 12, in common purpose with the principles stated within the National and State Democratic Party charters, are united in seeking individual and political freedoms and social and economic justice for our communities.
We affirm that we can best attain these goals through a strong, cohesive Party and Ward Committee—honest, open, and accessible to all.
The Democratic Party and this Ward Committee demand responsibility and accountability from Ward Committee members, candidates, and officials using its name. It shall be a democratic Ward Committee with which all social, economic, ethnic, and geographic groups can gather to clarify issues, affect public policies, and implement systems of equal opportunity regardless of race, national origin, creed, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
Mission Statement
The Historic Roxbury Ward 12 Democratic Committee’s mission is to improve the quality of life for residents of our community by helping to create an informed, engaged, and active constituency that uses the democratic process to affect positive change.
To accomplish this goal, Ward 12 educates residents about the electoral process and how it connects to everyday issues; vets candidates for elected office and holds them accountable to the Democratic Party and the constituents of Ward 12; works to increase voter participation in all elections; promotes legislation that increases access to voting; and sends delegates to the Massachusetts Democratic Convention to represent our community.
Article I – Defintions
Agenda: The order of business for Ward Committee meetings
Associate Member: An individual appointed by a majority vote of voting members.
Caucus: A gathering of enrolled Democrats called by the Ward Committee.
Committee: When capitalized, refers to the Ward Committee of voting members.
Demographics: Includes age, disability, ethnicity, income, race, gender, and sexual orientation.
Endorsement: Approval of a candidate or ballot initiative.
Emeritus Membership: A member who has served five elected terms.
Forum: A public meeting for candidates or ward issues
Meeting: A gathering of members, associate members, or committees.
Article II – Membership
Type
– Members are elected at Presidential Primaries for four-year terms.
– Members who have served five elected terms may continue as voting members.
– The Committee may appoint Associate Members.
Responsibilities
– Participation in monthly meetings.
– Participation in at least one standing or ad hoc committee.
– Compliance with State Democratic Party Charter and Bylaws.
Article III – Associate Membership
Eligibility
– Attend at least three meetings within six months.
– Request appointment.
– Be recommended and approved by majority vote.
Limitations
– May not hold officer positions.
– May not vote on Committee matters.
– Must reapply biennially.
Article IV – Removal
Members may lose membership due to party disaffiliation, relocation, or by a two-thirds vote for conduct inconsistent with Committee values.
Members have the right to notice, response, and appeal as outlined in these bylaws.
Article V – Officers
Co-Chairs
– Preside over meetings.
– Organize caucuses.
– Serve as party liaisons and spokespersons.
Treasurer
– Maintain custody of funds.
– Disburse funds per Committee policy.
– Provide monthly reports.
Secretary
– Draft agendas and minutes.
– Maintain attendance records.
– Provide required reports.
Article VI – Committees
The Committee may establish standing and ad hoc committees to fulfill its work.
Article VII – General Operations
The Committee shall conduct regular meetings, establish quorum requirements, and follow parliamentary procedure as outlined in Robert’s Rules of Order.
Article VIII – Endorsements
The Committee may endorse candidates or ballot initiatives by a two-thirds vote, following established procedures and notice requirements.
Article IX – Affirmative Action
The Committee may endorse candidates or ballot initiatives by a two-thirds vote, following established procedures and notice requirements.
Article X – Amendments to the Bylaws
These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of members present and voting, provided the amendment was submitted at the previous meeting.