June 13, 2012

Progressive Democrats Win!

By Conni Bille

The Philadelphia Democratic Party finally acknowledged that NN member Tracey Gordon had won election as committeeperson in the 40th ward in 2010. Tracey had been denied her elected seat by the ward and by Party leader Bob Brady. Because Tracy is now serving as a Deputy City Commissioner, a job in which she is continuing to protect the right to vote, she had to immediately resign from her elected position. (City ethics rules do not permit employees to hold party office.)

...Continued from home page

Suing for Her Rights

After repeated attempts to resolve the matter, Attorney Irv Acklesberg filed a lawsuit seeking not only to reinstate Tracey, but to permanently enjoin future election nullifications by the Philadelphia Democratic Party.

No doubt realizing that it would lose the court fight, the Philadelphia Democratic Party reinstated Tracey Gordon. On May 17, 2012, under the direction of the Party, the 40th Ward voted to rescind the illegal resolution it passed almost two years ago.

Democracy with a Lillte "D"

Furthermore, on June 9th the State Democratic Party acknowledged that rules for seating elected officials must be consistent throughout the state. The Phila Democratic Progressive caucus working with the Pennsylvania Democratic Progressive have been able to influence the party to be more open and transparent. Congratulations to Caucus members (who are also NN members!) who fought for democracy We are proud and happy to see the outcome.

© 2005-2007 Philadelphia Neighborhood Networks, All Rights Reserved. Site Design by Nancy Brigham; logo design by KC Ellis. Special thanks to Don Engel and D. André Dhondt for the software.