Democracy is About People Having Power
How to build thriving, democratic, socialist organizations that empower members, train cadre, and support a mass membership.
Organization
Members, Not Robert, Should Rule
No democratic meeting can be run effectively without rules. But DSA should find alternatives to Robert’s Rules if it wants to run meetings that are democratic and that encourage participation.
Why Robert Should Rule
Democratic organizations need rules to protect both the rights of majorities and minorities and to make sure debate is focused on important questions. This is the case for why big DSA chapters should adopt and use Robert’s Rules of Order.
For a Democratic and Effective DSA
What will it take to build a truly democratic but powerful socialist organization? Assume good intentions. Use direct decision-making for key votes, but trust elected leadership to make decisions between general meetings. Don’t weaponize democracy. And build power first, utopia second.