Mizzou College Democrats held their first meeting on Sept. 9 in Strickland Hall, where they discussed their plans for the year and hosted 46th District state Rep. Martha Stevens, (D-Columbia, 46).

The meeting allowed members to ask questions and suggest ideas for discussions and social gatherings. It also went over the format for future meetings and events. Mizzou Democrats President Jeffrey Bittle said they will meet every Thursday in Room 204 of Strickland Hall and discuss current political issues. They will also host guest speakers and are working on plans for advocacy and social events, such as going to Shakespeare’s Pizza after every meeting.

Mizzou Democrats introduced Stevens, who spoke about her work as a super-minority representative in Columbia. Stevens is in her sixth year of office.

Stevens said her first job out of graduate school was working for Planned Parenthood in Columbia, where she managed grassroots campaigns.

After her time at Planned Parenthood, Stevens said she was approached about running for office. State Rep. Stephen Webber’s (D-Columbia) eight-year term had just ended and she decided it would be a way to do a lot of good for the community — she was elected to her first term in November 2016. 

Stevens said she has used her position to help underprivileged people in Columbia. She also sponsored bills to help people battling substance abuse and help those in the community without financial security. She also discussed the importance of involvement in campaigns and politics at the college level, and explained ways students can get involved in the community. 

“Working on campaigns is a really, really wonderful way to get involved,” Stevens said. “You’re out there knocking on doors and having authentic conversations about what’s really important to you with the candidate.”

In the past, the Mizzou Democrats volunteered for the campaign of 45th district state Rep. David Tyson Smith (D-Columbia), who won a special election in April 2021. Since this year is an off-year for elections, the club plans to work with other campus organizations like Planned Parenthood Advocates of Mizzou and Sustain Mizzou.

Colby Thornton, the treasurer for the Mizzou Democrats, said the organization has previously participated in campaigns and volunteer work.

“We’re always looking to help the next generation of students get involved with campaigns,” Thornton said.

Mizzou Democrats have open membership, meaning those interested in joining can go to as many or as few meetings and events as they choose. There are also no dues to join the organization. 

“It’s a very open environment,” Bittle said. ”Anybody can come and feel welcome.”

Edited by Emmet Jamieson | ejamieson@themaneater.com