Thanks for being here
We’re thrilled that you found us! Scroll down the page to learn about how you can get plugged in with our chapter and to find answers to commonly asked questions.
YOUR NEXT STEPS
GETTING STARTED
1. Explore who we are
Learn about our chapter, our values, and what we’ve been doing. See the FAQ below for a quick overview.
2. Come to a Chapter Meeting
Every third Wednesday of the month. Members vote, plan campaigns, and make decisions together.
3. Attend New Member Orientation
Every third Saturday of the month. It’s a great way to meet fellow members and learn how we operate.
4. Get on Discord
Request an invite to our Discord from a Steering Committee member at either event above!
5. Join DSA!
Become an official member of our organization to unlock voting rights in our chapter. Dues are sliding scale.
6. Find a Working Group
What’s your passion? Get involved with a topic that lights you up and start building power with us!
FAQ
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who are the Democratic Socialists of America?
DSA is the largest socialist organization in the United States. We’re an organization of working people pushing for the liberation of the working class. Our vision is for ordinary people to have a real democratic voice in the economic and governmental decisions that shape our lives.
What is democratic socialism?
Democratic socialism envisions a radical restructuring of the economy and government — one that gives the working class genuine democratic control over our collective lives. That means fighting for things like universal healthcare, workers’ rights, renewable energy, tuition-free higher education, and economic democracy, while opposing poverty, racism, corporate oligarchy, and endless war.
Is DSA part of the Democratic Party?
No. AVL DSA is an independent organization. Some candidates we’ve endorsed have run as Democrats, but we believe both the Democratic and Republican parties are fundamentally run by and for the wealthy. We operate independently and are accountable only to our members.
What happens at a General Chapter Meeting?
Chapter meetings are held every third Wednesday and are the democratic core of AVL DSA. At a typical meeting you can expect updates from the Steering Committee and Working Groups, opportunities for members to vote on chapter priorities and resolutions, discussions about local campaigns and organizing strategy, and time to connect with other members. New folks are always welcome and you don’t have to be a formal member to attend!
What are Working Groups and how do I join one?
Working groups are where most of AVL DSA’s day-to-day organizing happens. Each group focuses on a specific issue area such as labor, housing, mutual aid, electoral action, political education, and community safety. We even have a group dedicated to our Socialist Farm in West Asheville, a postage-stamp garden where we grow food for our community.
All working group meetings are open to members. The best way to plug in is to attend a chapter meeting or orientation and ask about the group that interests you most, or reach out via Discord once you have an invite!
Is AVL DSA endorsing candidates for office?
At this time, we are not endorsing candidates. There are ongoing discussions about this within the chapter. If you’re interested in getting involved in those conversations, come to a Chapter Meeting or join the Electoral Action Working Group!
How can I get more info?
Sign-up for our newsletter to stay updated, come to the General Chapter Meetings (third Wednesday) or New Member Orientation (third Saturday). All our general meetings and most of our working groups are open to everyone, so you can get involved before you even formally join DSA!