Upcoming events.
Knock Doors for Kyna Lenhof
Sundays from 10am-1pm until the November 3 election.
New location each week! RSVP HERE.
Knock Doors for Kyna Lenhof
Sundays from 10am-1pm until the November 3 election.
New location each week! RSVP HERE.
Knock Doors for Kyna Lenhof
Sundays from 10am-1pm until the November 3 election.
New location each week! RSVP HERE.
Operation Swing State: Knock Doors In Iowa
About this event: As we head into critical 2026 midterms, we have a real shot at taking back the houses of government and finally rolling back Donald Trump's extreme, authoritarian agenda. But we'll only succeed if we're working together. We'd love you to come knock doors in Iowa with us!
Meeting Location in Illinois: Volunteers will meet at a staging location in Chicago (4551 N Western Ave) before carpooling over to Iowa to knock doors! We will provide $50 gas cards to drivers.
SIGN UP HERE: https://www.mobilize.us/operationswingstate/event/1034012/
Gubernatorial Debate Watch Party with Christian Mitchell on October 13th
Join Lieutenant Governor candidate Christian Mitchell, the 47th Ward Democrats, and the 40th Ward Democrats for a watch party in support of Governor JB Pritzker as he debates Republican opponent Darren Bailey.
RSVP to join Christian Mitchell for the debate watch party on Tuesday, October 13, 7-9:30pm, in Chicago. The exact location and additional arrival information will be sent to confirmed RSVPs approximately 24-48 hours before the event.
Knock Doors for Kyna Lenhof
Sundays from 10am-1pm until the November 3 election.
New location each week! RSVP HERE.
Election Integrity Open House
The Election Integrity Open House at Cody's Public House (1658 W Barry Ave) is designed to help community members feel informed and prepared to vote. Hosted by the 32nd Ward Dems in partnership with the 40th & 47th Ward Dems, and Alderperson Andre Vasquez, the event will answer voting questions, help attendees make a voting plan, and provide education on potential barriers to voting and how to navigate them.
Afterwards, stick around for pizza from Pizzeria Serio and postcard writing for battleground voters with Operation Swing State!
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP HERE.
Knock Doors for Kyna Lenhof
Sundays from 10am-1pm until the November 3 election.
New location each week! RSVP HERE.
Knock Doors for Kyna Lenhof
Sundays from 10am-1pm until the November 3 election.
New location each week! RSVP HERE.
Chicago School Board Presidential Candidate Forum
The 40th Ward Democrats invite our neighbors to attend the upcoming Chicago School Board Presidential Candidates Forum and hear directly from the candidates seeking to lead our city’s public school system.
Following the forum, we will ask 40th Ward residents to share their thoughts through a brief survey, including which candidate they are most likely to support.
REGISTER AND MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD by filling out this form: https://actionnetwork.org/events/join-40th-ward-dems-at-the-school-board-president-forum/
40th Ward Dems Annual Meeting
The 40th Ward Dems 2026 Annual Meeting is Thursday, July 16, at 6 PM at Is /Was Brewing. This meeting is a time to reflect on our recent accomplishments and look ahead to the critical months leading into the November 3rd midterm election. Share your thoughts, connect with your neighbors, and make an impact. All are invited! RSVP HERE.
What is a Chicago Charter? Teach In, Virtual Event
RSVP: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ATXVL_QLRmCEPKJOGrIhrQ
What is a Chicago Charter? Creating a city charter would give us the chance to fix the things (aldermanic prerogative, fiscal oversight, election timing, and more) that prevent city council from actually solving problems. Learn about how we can accomplish this with a voter-approved measure this year, taught by 40th Ward neighbor, Nate Hutcheson
40th Ward Dems Fireside Chat: Making Sense of the State Budget
RSVP - https://actionnetwork.org/events/fireside-chats-with-the-40th-ward-dems-making-sense-of-the-state-budget/
Thursday, April 30th, 2026
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
(doors open at 6pm)
Amundsen College and Career Center - 5110 N. Damen Ave
Join the 40th Ward Dems for their Civic education series, Fireside Chats with the 40th Ward: Making Sense of the State Budget. This new quarterly series focuses on civics and public processes in Illinois aiming to provide clear, accessible information to our community.
For our upcoming conversation on the state budget, panelists will walk attendees through the state-level budget process, from drafting to passage. Our goal is to combat misinformation by demystifying how government works and highlighting ways residents can engage through civic action.
Panelists:
State Comptroller Susana Mendoza
State Representative, 26th District Kam Buckner
Exec. Director of Center for Tax and Budget Accountability (CBTA) Ralph Martire
RSVP to get your seat at the event -
Spring Cleanup with Drake Warren
Come Join Drake Warren and 40th Ward Dems on Sunday, 4/19 to clean up Emmerson Park! Park clean up equipment (gloves, grabbers, garbage bags) and refreshments will be provided, so just bring along a smile and comfortable clothes to work in. RSVP now to save the planet!
Drake Warren is the Democratic nominee for Cook County Commissioner, 10th District. Drake envisions a Chicago that works better for everyone. He knows that Chicago can be a place for growing families to stay in the neighborhoods they love, for children to grow up happy and healthy, and for everyone to benefit from the opportunities our city offers. Drake is ready to make that a reality. Learn more about Drake Warren at www.drakefor10.com.
40th Ward Dems Fireside Chat - Why Primaries Matter
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias
Stevie Valles - CEO of Chicago Votes
Max Bever - Director Of Public Information of Chicago Board of Elections
Colleen Connell - Executive Director of ACLU of Illinois
Moderated by Rachel Hinton, Journalist at Block Club Chicago
Panelists will examine the impact low primary turnout has on policy outcomes, representation, and political power. The conversation will also address common barriers to participation, including confusion about voting opportunities and lack of accessible information. By grounding the discussion in real community impact, the Fireside Chat will encourage informed participation to Chicago neighbors ahead of the March 17th, 2026 Primary Election.
40th Ward Dems Day of Action - Super Bowl Sunday
Kick off Super Bowl Sunday with a DAY OF ACTION with the 40th Ward Dems! It’s time to get out the vote and engage with our neighbors for the March 17 Primary Election. Meet up at Winnemac Park to claim your door-knocking turf.
Email maggie@maggieokeefe.com to RSVP!
Silent Book Club (2nd Wed. Every Month)
Silent Book Club - Eli Tea Bar- Sponsored By 40th Ward Dems
Join The 40th Ward Dems at Eli Tea Bar for a Silent Book Club where bookworms gather to read, sip tea, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. RSVP is optional.
We invite you to join us for a cozy evening of silent reading at Eli Tea Bar. You can bring your favorite book and unwind in a comfortable chair. Whether you're looking for a peaceful night or hoping to meet fellow book enthusiasts, this event is perfect. You can also explore new books and savor your favorite tea while you relax. There is no need to RSVP, just come and share your passion for reading with us. We're looking forward to seeing you there.
40th Ward Dems Holiday Party
You’re invited to the 40th Ward Dems Holiday Party! Featuring art from Mather & Amundsen High School students. Free for students; $40 for community members; $250 for candidates and electeds. TICKETS HERE.
9th Congressional District Candidate Fair
Join us for an interactive opportunity to meet the candidates running for the open seat in Illinois' 9th Congressional District. This science-fair-style event allows you to speak directly with the candidates, campaign staff, and/or volunteers. RSVP HERE.
Silent Book Club (2nd Wed. Every Month)
Silent Book Club - Eli Tea Bar- Sponsored By 40th Ward Dems
Join The 40th Ward Dems at Eli Tea Bar for a Silent Book Club where bookworms gather to read, sip tea, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. RSVP is optional.
We invite you to join us for a cozy evening of silent reading at Eli Tea Bar. You can bring your favorite book and unwind in a comfortable chair. Whether you're looking for a peaceful night or hoping to meet fellow book enthusiasts, this event is perfect. You can also explore new books and savor your favorite tea while you relax. There is no need to RSVP, just come and share your passion for reading with us. We're looking forward to seeing you there.
Civics Research Project Canvass
A morning of door knocking, talking with neighbors, supporting our Civics Research Project.
Silent Book Club (2nd Wed. Every Month)
Silent Book Club - Eli Tea Bar- Sponsored By 40th Ward Dems
Join The 40th Ward Dems at Eli Tea Bar for a Silent Book Club where bookworms gather to read, sip tea, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. RSVP is optional.
We invite you to join us for a cozy evening of silent reading at Eli Tea Bar. You can bring your favorite book and unwind in a comfortable chair. Whether you're looking for a peaceful night or hoping to meet fellow book enthusiasts, this event is perfect. You can also explore new books and savor your favorite tea while you relax. There is no need to RSVP, just come and share your passion for reading with us. We're looking forward to seeing you there.
Petition Pop-Up & Civics Research Project Canvass
Sign petitions and meet candidates. Canvass for the Civics Research Project
Silent Book Club (2nd Wed. Every Month)
Silent Book Club - Eli Tea Bar- Sponsored By 40th Ward Dems
Join The 40th Ward Dems at Eli Tea Bar for a Silent Book Club where bookworms gather to read, sip tea, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. RSVP is optional.
We invite you to join us for a cozy evening of silent reading at Eli Tea Bar. You can bring your favorite book and unwind in a comfortable chair. Whether you're looking for a peaceful night or hoping to meet fellow book enthusiasts, this event is perfect. You can also explore new books and savor your favorite tea while you relax. There is no need to RSVP, just come and share your passion for reading with us. We're looking forward to seeing you there.
Midterms Petition Kickoff
Make it stand out
Sunday, August 10 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Beans & Bagels – 2601 W Leland Ave (Rockwell & Leland)
Pick up petitions, meet candidates running up and down the Democratic ballot, and hit the ground running with fellow volunteers. Whether you’re a seasoned circulator or brand new, we’ll get you set up.
Why This Matters:
Illinois candidates must collect a required number of valid signatures to appear on the ballot. Every single one has to be accurate because they’ll be challenged by opponents, and a judge will decide which signatures count.
Learn how to collect petitions (online event)
Petition Training (Virtual)
Thursday, August 7 | 8:00–8:30 PM
Learn how to confidently collect signatures that will hold up in court by Election Laywer and 40th Ward Dems General Member Jack Lydon. We’ll cover what makes a valid signature, common mistakes to avoid, and how to help our candidates succeed.
RSVP by emailing maggie@maggieokeefe.com
40th Ward Dems Annual Meeting
The 40th Ward Dems 2025 Annual Meeting is Tuesday, July 1, at 6:00 PM at Is /Was Brewing. We’re coming together for a meeting that invites your voice. We’ll be voting on updates to our Bylaws and Rules, and your feedback on the candidates is essential. Share your thoughts, connect with your neighbors, and make an impact.
Midsommarfest Tabling
The 40th Ward Dems will have a table at Midsommarfest in Andersonville, and we need volunteers to help staff it. Register voters, meet like-minded neighbors, and get involved. Volunteer shifts are approximately four-hours. Email info@maggieokeefe.com with interest.
40th Ward Dems Summer Picnic
Let's celebrate summer and the 40th Ward Dems! Join us for a potluck picnic on Saturday, May 31, from 1-4pm in Emerson Park, 1820 W. Granville Ave. Bring your favorite potluck item to share with the group.
Silent Book Club (2nd Wed. Every Month)
Silent Book Club - Eli Tea Bar- Sponsored By 40th Ward Dems
Join The 40th Ward Dems at Eli Tea Bar for a Silent Book Club where bookworms gather to read, sip tea, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. RSVP is optional.
We invite you to join us for a cozy evening of silent reading at Eli Tea Bar. You can bring your favorite book and unwind in a comfortable chair. Whether you're looking for a peaceful night or hoping to meet fellow book enthusiasts, this event is perfect. You can also explore new books and savor your favorite tea while you relax. There is no need to RSVP, just come and share your passion for reading with us. We're looking forward to seeing you there.
Civics Research Project: Door knocking!
Join the 40th Ward Democrats, Indivisible Lincoln Square, Illinois Democratic Women of Cook County and Northside Democracy For America for a canvass for the Civics Research Project. Our Civics Research Project is focused on studying voter turnout in primary elections—analyzing trends, identifying barriers, and developing strategies to engage more residents in the democratic process. Learn more about the project here - 40thwarddems.org/civicsproject Sign up to knock doors in the 40th Ward to speak with non-primary voters, identify any voting barriers, and ask data-driven questions to encourage voting in the upcoming 2026 primary election.