Community Engagement:
The Democratic Council of Albanian
Americans has Launched

PRESS RELEASE


Washington, D.C. — October 7, 2021 — We are pleased to announce the launch of the Democratic Council of Albanian Americans (DCAA).


DCAA is a volunteer organization whose mission is to strengthen democracy in the United States by supporting the Albanian American community’s participation in the political process, and Democratic candidates for office. DCAA is the natural outgrowth of over twenty-five years of community organizing and support for Democratic candidates in the United States.


We strive to support candidates and elected officials for causes important to our community. We also hope to encourage more Albanian Americans to intern in government offices, work at advocacy organizations, participate in political campaigns, and seek appointed and elected positions.


DCAA is led by a Board of Directors consisting of Democrats who are or have been elected officials, political appointees, candidates for offices, donors, and organizers. We pursue our mission through direct engagement with candidates and their campaigns, grassroots organizing, communications, and representation on the National Democratic Ethnic Coordinating Council of the Democratic National Committee.


We are guided by the strong belief that civic and political engagement are two of the most important responsibilities of citizenship. We believe in the fundamental principles of the United States to:


  • protect human rights,
  • promote democracy,
  • save the environment,
  • advance equality and justice,
  • foster prosperity,
  • and secure peace both at home and abroad

Those activities represent the promise of America and are central to the platform of the Democratic Party.


While we care very much about policy issues, DCAA is not focused on promoting any specific public policies nor are we an advocacy organization. We do, however, support efforts by other community organizations to secure bi-partisan support among American decision makers, including issues affecting Albanians abroad. By engaging in civic and political activities, we seek to increase the support of candidates and elected officials for causes important to our community.


Lastly, we celebrate the role of female leaders in our community and are proud that the majority of our Founding Board are women.

 

From Our Founders…

 

“I am thrilled to be part of launching DCAA with such a talented and experienced group of people who care so deeply about American democracy and the fate of the Albanian people. Together, we are hoping to continue over 25 years of supporting Democratic candidates, while also supporting Albanian Americans who wish to engage in public policy work in the United States.”
– Ilir Zherka, Board Chair

 

“The launching of the DCAA is an important step towards promoting participation of Albanian Americans in the electoral process and those that support Albanian issues in the United States.  This is an exciting opportunity and natural extension of my thirty years of public service as an elected official and my ongoing work in advocacy on behalf of Albanian Americans. I am honored to serve.”
– Dona Brady

 

“Commitment to democracy has been my life’s work.  I am thrilled to be part of the DCAA to promote civic engagement in our community. Ideas are easy. Implementation is hard – this group has the experience, knowledge, and track record of achieving results. Furthermore, the DCAA marks a milestone where our community demands more than just being a part of the decision-making process but to be the decision makers.  I am honored to be a part of its founding.”
– Vedat Gashi

 

“Our Albanian American community continues to evolve in its success across all professional sectors. Of the many great American achievements is the ability to serve your country and community, the DCCA serves as a resource in ushering the next generation into the American political process.”
– Avni Mustafaj

 

“The launching of DCAA represents an extraordinary milestone for the Albanian American Community.  Through this organization our community will enhance its presence, make our voices heard, and pave the way for more Albanian-Americans in their path to civic and political engagement.  It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as one of the Directors of the Founding Board.”
– Anila Nicklos

 

“With every generation of Albanian-Americans there is renewed hope for prosperity and success. The DCAA is that next step forward to becoming part of the decision-making process in America.  People from all backgrounds can rise to the highest office and be part of change.  This is the promise of democracy, and I am honored to be among such knowledgeable and talented colleagues.”
– Aferdita Rakipi

 

“The founding of the Democratic Council of Albanian Americans is borne of our deep commitment to American Democracy and for greater participation in civic engagement by our community.  This is also an opportunity to focus on Albanian issues in the United States concerning the safety and prosperity of the Albanian people. I am honored to join the DCAA and look forward to promoting these crucial objectives together with my colleagues.”
– Suzanna Shkreli

 

www.thedcaa.org

press@thedcaa.org

 

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