Who We Are
The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) is the largest socialist organization in the United States with over 70,000 members nationally. We believe that working people should run both the economy and society democratically to meet human needs, not to make profits for a few.
At the root of our socialism is a profound commitment to democracy, as means and end. DSA members in our chapter and across the country fight for reforms that increase the power of working people and weaken the power of corporations. We are a political and activist organization, not a party. Through campus and community-based chapters, DSA members use a variety of tactics, from legislative to direct action, to fight for reforms that empower working people.
We want a better, more socialist future for all. Here are some of systemic changes we’re working toward:
- Medicare for All
- Abolishing ICE
- Prison abolition
- Defunding the police and investing in our communities
- A Green New Deal and Climate Justice
- Cancelling student debt
- Workplace protections and strong unions
- Electing democratic socialists to local, state and national government
The members in our chapter believe that democratic socialism will gain support in Chattanooga. We want to connect and support the fights for equality and justice already underway here — and add our own Chattanooga twist.
A better world is possible. Join us, and let’s begin to build it!
We are socialists
There is a rumor going around that we use the 'S' word. It's true. We are socialists. We believe in a government that works for everybody. There is another word in our name: democratic. Chattanoogans are a diverse set and we are not always going to agree. We believe in the power of democracy to hold our leaders accountable and to make sure everyone's voices are heard.
[A] socialist society represents an advance to a higher stage of life—that is, a form of society which is economically, socially, culturally, and ethically superior to a system based upon production for private profit. History shows that the processes of social change have nothing in common with silly notions about "plots" and "conspiracies." The development of human society—from tribalism to feudalism, to capitalism, to socialism—is brought about by the needs and aspirations of mankind for a better life.