Dear comrades,

We’re closing out the year with energy and hope for the future. Zohran Mamdani’s recent DSA-backed victory demonstrated again the power of grassroots movements led by working-class people fighting for a better future.

In Santa Barbara, we’re taking action by organizing our workplaces, supporting our immigrant neighbors in spite of ICE’s relentless attacks, and supporting organizations fighting for tenants’ rights and rent stabilization.

If you’re looking to plug in, this newsletter has what you need—events, actions, and ways to support our neighbors.

📝 Chapter Meeting (Tue, Nov 4)

Thanks to everyone who joined our November Chapter Meeting! We heard updates from our Immigrant Defense Group and Workplace Organizing Committee and discussed some chapter policy changes. Meeting minutes are available upon request.

🗓️ November Events

• Fri, Nov 14 · 11:00 AM–1:00 PM — Coffee with the Co-Chair
  Java Station, 4447 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93110
  Come hang out with Co-Chair Nicole and other EC members to chat about life, chapter stuff, or take advantage of body doubling to get some work done.

• Sat, Nov 15 · 12:00–2:00 PM — DSA Labor 101: Workers, Unions, and Class Struggle — RSVP Link
  Santa Barbara Friends Meeting, 2012 Chapala St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
  Who is the working class? Why are labor unions so important to socialist politics? Join Santa Barbara DSA’s Workplace Organizing Committee for a discussion about the labor movement and the role of socialists within it. All are welcome!

• Sat, Nov 22 · 11:00 AM–4:00 PM — DSA Potluck by the Beach — RSVP Link
  SLO, Ventura County, and Santa Barbara DSA chapters invite you to spend a day on the beach with other socialists! Potluck style. Games are welcome. Contact [email protected] for more information.

• Tue, Nov 25 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Executive Committee Meeting

🏠 Pass Rent Stabilization in Santa Barbara

A coalition of pro-tenant organizations is working hard to pass Rent Stabilization in Santa Barbara, which would include a sensible limit on annual rent increases, a rent board, and a rental registry, among many other tenant protections.

However, the ordinance was not agendized during a key city council meeting, causing more delays for much-needed protections.

Email City Council demanding action on Rent Stabilization!

In the meantime, we are also asking supporters to demand an eviction moratorium and a rent freeze, two much-needed measures to protect tenants until Rent Stabilization is agendized and fully implemented.

Email City Council to demand an eviction moratorium and a rent freeze!

🤝 Support Casa de la Raza

Address: Casa de la Raza, 601 E. Montecito St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Hours: Mon–Fri, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Casa de la Raza is asking for both donations and volunteers to support our immigrant neighbors–now is an especially important time for solidarity due to the government shutdown as well as the ongoing increased activity from ICE.

Current Needs List (as of 11/8)

• Baby formula (Similac, Enfamil, etc.)

• Diapers & baby wipes

• Milk & fresh vegetables

• Grocery gift cards (for federal employees who will not be receiving their paychecks)

🦃 Thanksgiving Food Drive (now through Thu, Nov 21)

Casa is collecting:

• Non-perishable food items (rice, beans, canned goods, pasta, etc.)

• Fresh produce (potatoes, onions, squash, apples)

• Cooking staples (oil, sugar, flour, spices)

• Holiday foods (stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce, pies, turkeys, etc.)

• Grocery store gift cards

🎄 Christmas Toy Drive (now through Fri, Dec 20)

Casa is collecting:

• New, unwrapped toys for children ages 0–18

• Gift cards, books, board games, art supplies

• Warm clothing and holiday treats

• Gift wrap and party supplies

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to [email protected].

In solidarity,
🌹 DSA Santa Barbara Executive Committee