The Chester County Democratic Women’s Leadership Initiative (CCDWLI) proudly hosted its 2025 Spring Gala, Executive Order: Organizing in Defense of Our Great Nation, on Sunday, April 14, 2025—a sold-out evening that brought together local activists, community leaders, and changemakers at a time when our democracy faces unprecedented threats.
“We are living through a moment that demands courage, clarity, and collective action,” said CCDWLI Chair and Co-Founder, Michele Vaughn. “This year’s gala wasn’t just a gathering—it was a declaration. Our community showed up in full force to stand against authoritarianism and to organize in defense of our democratic ideals.”
The evening began with a spirited cocktail reception and dinner, offering attendees an opportunity to connect with like-minded allies committed to progress, justice, and equality. From the first toast to the final remarks, the energy in the room was one of unwavering resolve.
An exclusive screening of Gonzo for Democracy, a riveting new documentary by Lauren Windsor and Joe Bachman, captivated the audience with its behind-the-scenes look at the dark forces undermining our democratic institutions. Equal parts exposé and call to arms, the film set the tone for an evening focused on reclaiming our collective power.
Following the screening, a powerful panel of Democratic leaders at every level—from federal to local—took the stage to share insights, strategies, and hope. Topics ranged from voting rights and election security to grassroots mobilization and policy innovation aimed at protecting the most vulnerable among us.
“These aren’t ordinary times,” Vaughn noted. “But we are not an ordinary community. Pennsylvania will be ground zero for the fight to protect our democracy in 2025, and CCDWLI is proud to stand on the front lines with women leading the charge.”
The CCDWLI remains committed to cultivating leadership, inspiring civic action, and building the infrastructure needed to elect women—and champions of women—up and down the ballot.
Vaughn concluded, “If there’s one message we hope resonated from this event, it’s that democracy is not a spectator sport. Each of us has a role to play. And together, we are unstoppable.”
Founded in 2015, CCDWLI is a chapter of the Pennsylvania Federation of Democratic Women (PFDW). In just under a decade, the organization has become one of the most successful PFDW chapters in the state—championing women’s leadership and fighting for the future of our democracy, one election at a time.
For more information, please refer to our website at: https://www.ccdwli.org
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