Why RootsCamp Now

Calling all RootsCampers to explain

If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking forward to RootsCamp—or at least curious about it. So here’s my question: Why do you want to be part of RootsCamp? How did past RootsCamps impact your work or your life?

We need your stories to help others understand why RootsCamp is special. Could you share them with us here? Post a quick video—nothing captures the magic better than hearing it directly from you.

I started thinking about organizing RootsCamp 2024 months ago, but like many, I got buried in election work. Then, I saw Julia Rosen’s LinkedIn post (check the image below). Her words and all the comments reminded me why RootsCamp is so important. With her permission, we’re sharing here.

RootsCamp isn’t your typical progressive event. It’s messy, emotional, and deeply human. You’ll get angry. You might cry. But you’ll also laugh, learn, and leave with connections and ideas that stay with you for years. That’s why it works.

(Click here or the picture to read the comments!)

There are two kinds of people in our political community: those who have been to RootCamp and those who haven’t. There is a deep affection and nostalgia for those who have been. Julia’s post and many who comment explain why. As someone who has been part of most past RootCamps, I can’t agree more.

So here’s the deal—we can’t do this alone. RootsCamp has always been about community; it takes a village to make it happen. We need volunteers for:

• A Finance Committee to manage resources.

• A Program Committee will help design and guide the sessions.

• A Communications Committee to spread the word.

• An Attendee Recruitment Committee to ensure we reach and inspire a diverse audience.

• A DEI/Equity Committee will be created to center inclusivity in everything we do.

We’re also looking for folks to assist with panel moderation, tech support, guest speaker support, fundraising, social media, and implementing our Community Guidelines. Whether you’ve got a few hours or more to give, there’s a role for you.

We’ve also drafted an RFP for some paid staff/consulting roles—if you know a great team, please share it with them.

Ready to help? Sign up to volunteer or share a testimonial here: Volunteer/Testimonial Form.

Not sure what RootsCamp looks like? Check out the 2020 RootsCamp schedule for inspiration. This year might be a little later than usual, but it will still do what it’s always done: give us space to mourn our losses, celebrate our wins, and figure out how to do better.

If this resonates with you, share your story—or help us make RootsCamp happen. Let’s show people what makes it worth it.