AYD president Ramos says goodbye

Austin Young Democrats will host a celebratory roast of outgoing president Jen Ramos today, ahead of an election on Feb. 11 that will decide the group’s next leadership. Ramos served two terms as president of the young Dems, and was the first Latina to hold that position in the organization. The roast is being held via a private online meeting and will be overseen by local political consultant Ed Espinoza and drag performer Senator Colleen DeForrest. The event will also serve as a fundraiser for the group’s Promise Fund, with the goal of gathering $7,000 that will be used for grants to youth organizers who have faced financial hardships caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. In a prepared statement, Ramos said, “I am humbled by the growth and opportunities provided to me by the Austin Young Democrats after six years of growth and friendship. It only feels right to pay it forward.  We must invest in the leaders of today and tomorrow to build on an America as good as its Promise. I hope that The Promise Fund will create an opportunity for equity and support in the political space, long past my years in leadership with the organization.”