SOUTHWICK-Doreen Goyette-Crowley has been active in the Southwick Democratic Town Committee since she moved into town in 1971.
Goyette-Crowley, who serves as chair of the committee, noted “We are always looking for qualified, experienced and dedicated candidates to run for office.”
Doreen F. Goyette-Crowley is the chair of the Southwick Democratic Town Committee. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Goyette-Crowley also serves with Deborah E. Herath, first vice chair; Darryl J. Sak, second vice chair; Nancy M. Zdun, secretary, and Jennifer D. Belden, treasurer.
“I feel my role with the organization is to inspire and guide others to participate in a common good,” she said, adding, “by encouraging a team of patriots to unify and work together in making a difference for our country.”
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the committee currently meets over the Zoom platform on the first Wednesday of every month, September through June, and adjourns for a summer recess.
“Membership consists of up to 35 residents who are registered Democrats,” said Goyette-Crowley, noting all members are elected by the Democratic Committee.
“We currently have two-thirds active participation,” she said. “The reason we are not at full membership is only because these members have moved away or sadly passed on. We are grateful to these individuals for their many years of dedicated public service.”
Goyette-Crowley noted the Southwick election of delegates to the Massachusetts Democratic State Convention is expected to take place this spring.
“The date, place, and timeline will be confirmed by the DSC at their April 28 meeting,” said Goyette-Crowley. “It’s looking like the window for caucuses will be June 1-July 11. The convention will likely be late September, but that will also be confirmed on April 28.”
Town residents interested in more information about the committee are welcome to attend a meeting, noted Goyette-Crowley.
“They can share their views and concerns and also receive the latest updates from local board members and community leaders,” she said, adding, “We receive updates from local leaders each month, and many of our members are serving on various boards within the community.”
Goyette-Crowley also emphasized she is “especially grateful” for youth involvement.
“The display of patriotism and values shown for our democracy is what our Founding Fathers intended,” she said.
For more information and to follow the committee’s 2021 plans, visit https://facebook.com/southwickdems.
The next Zoom meeting is slated April 7 and will feature Warren Hill from the Democratic National Committee who will discuss the Massachusetts Democratic State Convention and his experiences as an elected delegate to the Democratic National Convention during both the Clinton and Obama administrations.
“Citizens become better informed about local issues by engaging with community leaders and sharing community support for decisions that are made,” said Goyette-Crowley. “Genuine participation creates confidence and trust in their local government.”
Herath shared a similar sentiment.
“We are a civic-minded group who cares deeply about our community,” said Herath, adding, “Our committee is made up of people committed to our town and democracy. Many members serve on multiple town committees and organizations.”
Herath added that residents should become involved in the committee as grassroots actions work their way up to the state level and beyond.
“A true democracy involves people of all races, creeds, and religions to be able to make their voices heard, and we are here to help them understand how this works, answer questions, and ensure they are heard,” said Herath.
On a related note, the 2021 Southwick Democratic Town Committee Caucus will be conducted outdoors at the Southwick Town Hall on March 19 from 5-6:30 p.m. Any town resident who is a registered Democrat may vote.
“As a precautionary measure due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, drive-through voting will take place around the rear of the building near the Southwick Senior Center entrance,” said Herath. “Each qualified voter will receive a placard on their vehicle to participate in the caucus.”
