Black illustration of a donkey on red and white stripes with an outer blue edge with white stars

The donkey was first used as a symbol for the Democratic party during Andrew Jackson's 1828 presidential campaign. He was referred to as a "jackass" by his opponents, and chose to embrace the image. Cartoonist Thomas Nash later used the donkey to portray the democratic party in newspapers and has been used ever since. 

Red and blue text on a white upper half and white text and two white stars on a blue lower half

One of the two major political parties in the United States, the Democratic Party is also one of the oldest. Democrats favor increased government involvement in economic affairs but decreased interference in citizen’s private lives. Compared to the other major political party in the United States, the Republican Party, a strong Democratic government includes the regulation of big business with federal programs to support the poor and minorities. Democratic President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal introduced social security and minimum wage, two key advancements in worker’s rights.  

White button with red text

Shirley Chisholm (1924-2005) was an American educator, author, and politician who is recognized as the first African American woman to be elected to the United States Congress. As a congresswoman, Chisholm worked on the Education and Labor Committee and also helped in forming the Black Caucus, a political organization of black American members of the U.S. Congress. Chisholm served seven terms in office. In 1972, Chisholm again made history when she became the first black woman of a major party to run for a presidential nomination. Chisholm succeeded in getting her name on twelve primary ballots. At the Democratic National Convention, Chisholm received 152 delegates or ten percent of the votes. Though the campaign wasn't successful, Chisholm's campaign and work cemented herself as a significant voice in both African American history and American politics.

Black circular frame with white text. In the center, there is a white background with red text

Sandra Day O'Connor is a retired associate judge who served on the Supreme Court of the United States. First appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, O'Connor was the first woman to serve on the court and stayed in the position until she retired in 2006. O'Connor's time on the Supreme Court saw her play a principle role in many landmark cases. In 1992, O'Connor provided the necessary vote in Planned Parenthood v. Casey  to uphold the court's earlier decision on abortion rights in Roe v. Wade. In addition, O'Connor was also the deciding vote in the Bush v. Gore case. The ruling ended the recounting of votes for the 2000 presidential race, which was heavily contested. Thus, George W. Bush was allowed to go on to serve his first term as president. Retiring in 2006, O'Connor continues to stay active. She has authored numerous books and has given lectures throughout the country.

Black and white photograph of Humphrey in profile with black text on a white shape and red text on a pink background

After losing the 1968 presidential election, Hubert Humphrey again sought the Democratic nomination in 1972. Although he won the most votes during the primaries, he lost to George McGovern at the convention, thus ending his presidential campaign. 

White text with blue text

Harvey B. Milk (1930-1978) was an American politician who holds the distinction of being the first openly gay elected official in the state of California upon winning a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Upon moving from New York to California in 1972, Milk began showing considerable interest in politics and soon declared his campaign for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, which is a governing body that oversees county governments. Running in both 1972 and 1975, Milk lost both elections until finally succeeding in 1977. Upon winning, Milk served in office for eleven months and was responsible for passing a number of laws that furthered gay rights in San Francisco. Milk's career was tragically cut short when he was assassinated on November 27, 1978, by Dan White, who was a former city supervisor. Though his political career was short-lived, Milk has become an icon in both San Francisco as well as in the greater gay community for his efforts in advancing gay rights.

Painting of orange, blue, red, orange and yellow stripes

Hand painted button by an unknown artist found in a closet in Wicker Park, Chicago. 

Painting of blue and orange splotches on a yellow background

Hand painted button by an unknown artist found in a closet in Wicker Park, Chicago. 

Painting of three brown figures on a yellow background

Hand painted button by an unknown artist found in a closet in Wicker Park, Chicago. 

Painting of yellow and purple stripes and blue half circles with orange on a green background with an outer yellow edge

Hand painted button by an unknown artist found in a closet in Wicker Park, Chicago.