We believe in the Democratic Party because time and time again, Democrats have fought for students and the progressive causes we care about.  It was the Democratic Party that stood up for students when it came to financial aid.  From President Franklin Roosevelt's G.I. Bill to Speaker Nancy Pelosi's College Cost and Reduction Act, Democrats have opened the doors of opportunity for millions of Americans to go to college.

Throughout our history, it was the Democratic Party that first stood up for civil rights, the environment, advocating for universal health care and energy independence. When average Americans need a voice as they struggle to make ends meet, Democrats stand by them and fight for an economy that favors the middle class, not corporations.

Today's students stand strong as the next generation of concerned citizens and leaders - ready to continue the progressive causes we believe in As College Democrats, we must call upon many more young people to recognize the importance of public service and political participation in order to deliver the change our country needs.

When it comes to fairness and equality, we believe that all Americans should have the same opportunities to achieve the American Dream - regardless of race, gender, religion or sexual orientation. But equality doesn't stop there. We know through the hardships of our parents that every worker in America deserves a fair shake in our economy. And when jobs are lost overseas, we believe that it is our obligation to provide a safety net for the most vulnerable members of our society.

When it comes to securing the energy resources of the future, we believe that America needs to tap into alternative energy and begin to turn away from our addiction to fossil fuels. Not only does that help protect our environment and provide our nation with clean air and safe food, it changes our national interests abroad and puts us back on the path to leadership in fighting global warming.

We believe in a responsible, strong foreign policy that not only ensures America's safety but also provides global leadership again. We believe that diplomacy is not a weakness, and that our national interest not only lies in protecting ourselves, but also to stand up against genocide around the world - especially in Darfur, Sudan.

We believe in a woman's right to choose. We believe in universal health care. We believe in stronger schools and safer streets. We believe in civil liberties. We believe that it is our responsibility to care for our seniors and secure Social Security for the next generation. And we believe that to win the future, young people must speak up now.

We are the future of the Democratic Party, and we're ready for change in 2008.