Last month's general meeting began with a few quick updates. Robert B. updated the group on the previous weekend's successful anti-fascist actions against a gathering of far right group American Identity Movement. Nan provided a basic summary of the national convention and some of the bylaws and resolutions that were passed. Labor Working Group lead, Justin, updated attendees on the recent and ongoing Unite Here/ Sky Chefs which was covered in last month's newsletter and the intentions to keep the heat on American Airlines until justice is achieved.
The primary presentation of the meeting was given by the Racial Justice Working Group. They began by covering the group's primary campaigns over the past few years, including:
Dallas juvenile curfew fight
Rapid response for the Allen ICE raid
Community Police Oversight board to create transparency for city police
Public safety campaign to change the conversation about the manner in which communities of color are over-policed
Successful campaign to win paid sick time for 300,000 workers in Dallas
Group members Corrie and Radiance then presented the ambitious 2020 platform of the group which includes:
The Healthcare Working Group held a fundraiser at Full City Rooster Coffee. A silent auction was held featuring art, jewelry, music, and other items which had been donated by both DSA North Texas members as well as other creators. A representative from the coalition of Medicare for All advocates our healthcare group has assembled, Kamyon Conner of Texas Equal Access Fund, was on hand to say a few words. There was plenty of camaraderie, coffee beverages, live music, and bidding. Funds raised from the auction as well as the new Medicare for All t-shirt orders will go towards the Fall flu shot clinic, printing materials for canvassing, and more events to build the movement for health justice in North Texas.
DSA North Texas and Deep Vellum books hosted author Tim Faust, who gave an impassioned speech on his new book, Health Justice Now.
The EcoSocialist Working Group has continued with the second and third installments of its Artists for a Green New Deal series. These events included a call with Kali Akuno as well as information on how artists and cultural workers can plug into the efforts by the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture collective and others to promote the Green New Deal.
At Sunday's general meeting, we'll be discussing our involvement with the DSA for Bernie campaign and upcoming events such as canvassing, phone banking, and more. Babies and children are welcome. We provide a family zone with blankets, books, and toys so that parents can participate in meetings while enjoying time with their kids.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Environmental Justice Movie Night Fundraiser - Saturday, Sept. 14 - 1PM
Healthcare Working Group Meeting - Saturday, Sept. 14 - 2PM - Full City Rooster
September General Meeting - Sunday, Sept. 15 - 2PM - CWA Hall
Racial Justice Working Group Meeting - Tuesday, Sept. 17 - 7PM - Half Priced Books NWHY