The binennial convention of the Young Democrats of America kicked off today in Louisville, KY. Attended by some 500 young Democratic movers and shakers from around the nation, the convention provides a chance to hear from a wide variety of Democratic luminaries, to network, and to learn about everything from building out a political resume, to managing an effective get out the vote effort, to running as an LGBT candidate.

The list of speakers includes a who's who of current Democrats in Kentucky including Rep. John Yarmuth, Rep. Ben Chandler, Gov. Steve Beshear, Lt. Gov. Dr. Daniel Mongiardo, State Auditor Crit Luallan, State Treasurer Todd Hollenbach, Secretary of State Elaine Walker, Attorney General Jack Conway, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer, and Lieutenant Governor Candidate Jerry Abramson.

Also speaking will be Wisconsin State Senator Chris Larson, who was one of the Democrats who famously opposed Gov. Scott Walker's [R-WI] union stripping legislation, and Cecil Roberts, President of the United Mine Workers of America.

Several Democrats on the national stage will also address the convention including Democratic Leader Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, and Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz.

Louisville.com will be covering the all three days of the convention so stay tuned for updates, photos, and more. You can also follow the convention on Twitter by searching on #YDA2011.