Since early December Metro DC DSA had been working to strategize for the chapter’s march on Inauguration Day to demand that the incoming government make progressive legislation and D.C. statehood their top priority. Following the fascist insurrection on January 6th, further threats of violence from the far-right and the subsequent militarization of downtown made a march on Inauguration seem infeasible and unsafe and prompted us to re-adjust.

However, while we won’t be able to be out in force on the day of the inauguration, as socialists we can still help our community as they face the threats of right-wing violence and the state. Here are some ways to get involved both on Inauguration Day and beyond:

Good Trouble Coop is organizing mutual aid support for vulnerable communities on the day of the inauguration and beyond. To get connected with their efforts, sign up here.
If you plan to be out in the streets on the 20th, whether for mutual aid or otherwise, our Red Rabbits can help connect you to a virtual buddy who checks in on you and makes sure you get home safely. You can sign up for that program here. Please check the #action-alerts channel on Slack for a form you can fill out to get a virtual buddy.
Stomp Out Slumlords will be holding a peaceful action on January 23 to demand Biden provide real relief to the working class after ten months and counting of a devastating pandemic. We are marching to demand the administration cancel rent and ban evictions nationwide, to ensure that no one has to choose rent over food. To volunteer or register for the action, sign up here.

We’ll also post any additional information or opportunities to the #announcements channel on Slack in the coming days.

The need for socialists to demand bold action from the incoming Biden administration will not pass with January 20th. After months of a global pandemic, and decades of bipartisan austerity, this administration must pass vital legislation to lift the millions of Americans out of crushing poverty. If they fail to act, the continued misery will only fan the flames that lead to Trump coming to office in the first place, and without serious action he or someone like him could be back. Stay tuned for more info on actions and campaigns in February to demand justice and a socialist future.

In solidarity,

Metro DC DSA