College Democrats return to campus

Contributed photo

College Democrats post new logo on their Instagram

After a long period of inactivity, the College Democrats of Troy University have returned.

College Democrats is a bipartisan-minded and student-led organization dedicated to civic education, respectful conversation and collective growth. They strive to educate those who come to school through discussion of political topics with a shared goal to build a more informed and empowered student body.  

“I just think it’s super important to educate people whether they’re Democrats, Republicans, moderates, whatever it may be,” said College Democrats President Markcus Cooper, a junior global business major from Bainbridge, Georgia. “Fact is fact, and it’s important to talk through those facts with others.” 

Cooper said the revival of the organization was spurred by his encounters with people of differing opinions – opinions they did not know how to defend.  

“I want our space to be one that … celebrates differing opinions and also nurtures those who don’t have the most political background or understanding,” Cooper said. “Our mission … is going to be to educate every student that we come in contact with.” 

Aside from the goal of educating, Cora Wyrosdick, secretary for College Democrats and sophomore biomedical science major, said that the organization has goals to build community and create change both within the organization and across campus.  

“We will encourage respectful dialogue on political issues, even among people who inherently disagree,” Wyrosdick said. “We want to give students opportunities to learn about the political process, connect with leaders, and find and use their voices locally.” 

Wyrosdick said students can look forward to informative debates, voter registration drives, volunteer and education opportunities and chances to meet active Democratic leaders in the local community.  

According to Jayden McQueen, vice president for the College Democrats and senior political science major from Crestview, Florida, the members of the organization are feeling good and energized now that the semester is getting underway.  

“I feel like talking about politics can be taboo, so having a safe space to do that is extremely important, not just for ourselves, but for our democracy,” McQueen said. “Some members may be concerned since another organization that is on the conservative side has emerged as well; however I think that brings a perfect opportunity to decrease the political divide.” 

The College Democrats do not require those interested in joining to be registered Democrats. 

“We have moderates and independents in our group,” McQueen said. “We are a come as you are – but with an open mind and open-heart organization.”  

Those interested in learning more about the College Democrats , their staff or their mission can visit their Instagram @troyudemocrats. Those interested in joining the organization can visit the GroupMe link in their bio.