The following is a submission from the Santa Monica Dem Club.
The Santa Monica Democratic Club will host its fundraising gala, the Sammy Awards, now in its third year, on March 15, 2026, bringing together elected officials, grassroots leaders, labor champions, and community activists for one of the Westside’s signature progressive political events of the year.
Tickets are on sale now. Click here for more details or to make a purchase/sponsor the event.
This year’s celebration will honor four distinguished leaders whose work reflects the Club’s commitment to justice, equality, democracy, opportunity, and the refusal to let being in the minority stop us from making real, effective change:
● Representative Julia Brownley
● Los Angeles County Democratic Party Chair Mark Ramos
● Former Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis
● Reverend Janet McKeithen
The Sammy Awards serve not only as a celebration of leadership, but also as a major annual fundraiser supporting the Club’s organizing, voter engagement, and endorsement efforts in 2026 and beyond.
Under the leadership of President Jon Katz, the Santa Monica Democratic Club has played a central role in advancing local and statewide progressive priorities. Most recently, the Club secured the endorsement of the California Democratic Party for its former Co-President, Dr. Sion Roy, in his campaign for State Senate to succeed Ben Allen, himself a former Club Board member.
In recent years, the organization has mobilized voters for key ballot initiatives such as Measure GS, hosted widely attended candidate forums and endorsement processes, and built durable coalitions with labor unions, renters’ advocates, and community leaders. In 2024, the Club was widely credited with helping bridge the coalition that delivered a progressive sweep in the Santa Monica City Council election.
“We are living through a moment when our democracy is being tested daily and complacency is not an option,” said Jon Katz, President of the Santa Monica Democratic Club. “Authoritarianism is only defeated by organized people, clear values, and leaders willing to stand up. That’s who we’re honoring. And that’s why this work is essential. We invite everyone who believes in democracy to join us and recommit to the fight.”
The evening will feature remarks from honorees, local leaders, and special guests, along with opportunities for community members to connect and recommit to the work ahead in a pivotal election year.
The Santa Monica Democratic Club, one of the state’s most active Democratic Clubs, has been a cornerstone of Westside political life for decades. Through endorsements, grassroots mobilization, regular informational membership meetings, and coalition building, the Club continues to shape the local political landscape and serve as a hub for civic engagement.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 Sammy Awards are available now. Proceeds directly support the Club’s voter outreach, candidate engagement, and progressive organizing efforts throughout the year.
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