Bernie 2020: March 2 General Meeting

DSA nationally is in the midst of deliberating an endorsement for the 2020 Presidential election. Part of this process involves hearing from local chapters and affiliates. In light of Bernie’s recent announcement, the Steering Committee has voted to suspend some of our planned business for our March 2nd General Meeting in order to devote more time to discuss the Sanders 2020 campaign. We will deliberate our potential endorsement and preparation, and hold an open, participatory discussion on strategy and goals. After the Bernie portion of our meeting we will resume regular business. A final agenda will be available next week.

This is the most important presidential campaign of our lifetimes, and an unprecedented opportunity for democratic socialism. Our Local decisions will help determine whether our National Political Committee endorses Bernie Sanders and to what extent DSA devotes resources to building a robust campaign to support his campaign. We encourage every member to attend this crucial meeting, and to invite anyone interested -- members or not -- to participate.

At the second half of the March General Meeting we'll be considering bylaws revisions based on the recommendations submitted by the Ad Hoc Committee on Organizational Structure. See Resolution 4.18.03 for more details.

We are adjusting the agenda to create as much time as possible for deliberation, debate, and voting. Please also note that time-sensitive projects and ideas may be brought to the Steering Committee, which meets monthly, in the interim between General Meetings.

Resolutions due: 2/20 | Amendments due: 2/23 | Final Packet published: 2/25

If you have any questions about writing and submitting a resolution, or would like help formulating your idea into a resolution, please reach out to the Resolutions Commission via [email protected], subject line RESO. Members can submit resolutions by emailing the resolution to [email protected].

At General Meetings, the local assembles to hear reports from projects and committees, set local policy and work priorities, and to debate and vote on resolutions. The assembled membership is the ultimate decision-making body of the local, so participation is crucial.

The general meeting is open to all, but you must be a member in good standing (have paid national dues) in order to vote. Voting members are those who are on the the list provided by national DSA one week in advance of the meeting. Visit www.dsausa.org for more information on becoming a member (dues waivers are available).

Philly DSA provides childcare and other accommodations to facilitate the greatest possible member attendance and participation. If you have any accommodation or accessibility concerns, please contact [email protected].