Steering Committee Minutes: June 21, 2020

East Bay DSA, Steering Committee Meeting, June 21, 2020, 2-5pm, Zoom

Introductions/Opening Statements

The meeting was called to order at 2:00pm via ZOOM. Abigail G-G opened the meeting, which included both the incoming and outgoing Steering Committee. The recording secretary was taking notes. Also present at the meeting were Luci R, Shane R, Carlos O, Matt S, Sean M, Marissa S, Luke T, Lindsey M, Will S, Miguel B, Hannah E, Annika B, Allie L, Keith BB, Rex LC, Katie F, AJ A, and Maura M.

Committee chairs Miguel D, Kelsey W, Samantha C, Aaron G, and Colin M were also in attendance.

The agenda was approved.

Reflections of the Past Year and Transition of Leadership

Hannah E introduced and facilitated a discussion about the past year in review. There were three prompts driving the discussion:

What did we learn about how the SC can support a big campaign? Where and how were we able to provide political direction/leadership?
What did we learn in our efforts for building multi-racial inclusion?
What are better ways we could have built trust?

Committee Reports

The Finance report was delivered by Sean M
The Recording Secretary’s report was delivered by Sean M
The Ops Committee report was delivered by Sean M
The Housing Committee report was delivered by Kelsey W
The Communications Committee report was delivered by Rex LC
The Labor Committee report was delivered by Aaron H
The Electoral Committee (formerly 2020) report was delivered by Lindsey M
The Richmond Library Campaign report was delivered by Will S

New Business

Abigail G-G Chaired the new business portion of the meeting, which included the following resolutions.

[SC.2020.108] Recommendation to Adopt Political Framing and Goals for a Jobs Program

Submitted on behalf of the Labor Committee by Aaron H.

The following resolution was motivated by Aaron H.

Whereas, the Labor Committee undertook the work of developing a plan to begin work on a jobs program at its regular March meeting; and

Whereas, the organizers developing a jobs program are in its initial planning stages, working out what needs to be done to create a jobs program; and

Whereas, as identified by those organizers, in order to carry out a jobs program and allocate formal organizational resources, it must have an articulated set of political goals and there must be a criteria and democratic means on which to decide which particular types of jobs will be prioritized by the jobs program; and

Whereas, the work to create the jobs program is time-intensive, cannot all easily be put together in one proposal, and requires the input, feedback, and approval of multiple organizational bodies, each with their own independent schedule of decision-making meetings which in effect create deadlines for the jobs program organizers to meet in order to carry forward the project in a timely manner; and

Whereas, work on the jobs program at this stage cannot continue forward until at a minimum there is agreement by all necessary bodies on the goals of the project; and

Whereas, the Labor Committee provisionally adopted the content of “EBDSA Jobs Program Political Framing” as the political vision and goals of its jobs program at its June 14th special meeting, pending any necessary changes and approval by any higher bodies; and

Whereas, the jobs program organizers are in the process of drafting out prospective criteria to put forward to the Labor Committee and any necessary higher bodies; and

Whereas, to have the full political backing and support of the Chapter, the political vision, goals, and criteria for a jobs program must ultimately all be put to and agreed upon by the Chapter at a General Membership Meeting.

Therefore the Labor Committee recommends the adoption of the following resolution by the Steering Committee:

Be it resolved that the Steering Committee adopts the content of “EBDSA Jobs Program Political Framing” as the political vision and goals of the jobs program of which the Labor Committee is in the planning stages.

Following motivation, there was a period of questions and answers. Following a discussion of the goals outlined, the Steering Committee decided to defer a vote until the Labor Committee is ready to present a specific plan for implementation of the program.

[SC.2020.109] Resolution for continued strike support of Mcdonald's Workers 6/20/20

Submitted by Kaela SH, Cora L, Cooper R, Claire R, Jeremy Y, and Neder G.

The resolution was motivated by Rex LC.

Whereas, 33 out of 35 workers have been on strike at a North Oakland McDonalds store, 4514

Telegraph Ave, Oakland, since Tuesday May 26, 2020. Twelve out of the thirty-three workers are sick with COVID, with more still waiting for results. Eight family members of these workers have contracted COVID; and

Whereas, These 33 workers decided to strike after asking management for PPE and they were

offered coffee filters and dog diapers as masks; furthermore, they have not received hazard pay

or adequate healthcare.

Whereas, A McDonalds location on Shattuck and University Ave is currently experiencing an outbreak of COVID - currently 8 workers have tested positive. At least one of the workers from the Telegraph location also works at the Shattuck location; and

Whereas we, as a socialist organization, should seize this opportunity to work directly on building the organized strength and power of the working class here in the East Bay - especially during a historic strike in fast food history - with some of the most exploited workers in our community - especially during this moment of public health crises; and

Whereas, Fight for $15 is legally limited by its parent organization, SEIU, as to how it can participate in direct action and East Bay DSA has an opportunity to step in and define a role in the direct action and organization of these striking workers; and

Whereas, Kaela SH, Cooper R, and Cora L have been coordinating with Fight for $15 and David Solnit to organize many actions in the last two weeks supporting these striking workers several of which have been endorsed by the Steering Committee on a case-by-case basis; and

Therefore be it resolved, that East Bay DSA broadly endorse this McDonalds workers strike, in order to quickly respond to the workers needs as they arise.

Be it further resolved, that East Bay DSA will amplify these actions on social media, encourage its membership to turn out and act in solidarity with striking Mcdonald’s workers and participate in other forms of strike support.

Following motivation, the resolution PASSED by a unanimous vote.

[SC.2020.110] Motion Transfer of Legal Responsibilities to New Steering Committee Members and Transfer of Administration of Chapter G-Suite and Password Manager

Submitted by Sean M.

Whereas outgoing members of the Steering Committee are signatories to the chapter’s bank accounts

Whereas the names of outgoing members of the Steering Committee appear on various legal documents

Whereas incoming Steering Committees should assume those responsibilities and be the signatories on legal documents the state requires for officers of 501(c)(4)s

Whereas the Treasurer has historically administered the Chapter’s G-Suite and Password Manager

Therefore be it resolved that the outgoing and incoming Treasurer will coordinate the removal of existing signatories and the addition of new signatories to the chapter’s bank account and to the documents described below as soon as possible.

Documents and signatories

1. Officers listed on CA Form SI-100

Resolution

EBDSA’s next filing of the CA SI-100 will list the following roles and individuals:

Chief executive officer/president: Allie Lahey and Matt Stone
Secretary: AJ Acosta
Chief financial officer/treasurer: Lindsey Moore

The members of the board will be also revised to match the members of the incoming Steering Committee.

Incoming treasurer Lindsey Moore will perform this filing at the earliest convenience. SI-100 is due in the second half of the fiscal year, or after June 30th.

Rationale

Form SI-100 lists basic information about a California nonprofit corporation, including contact information and the identities of its officers and board. The following are listed as our current officers: Abigail Gutmann-Gonzalez (co-Chair), Mark Gabriel (Secretary), and Sean Murphy (Treasurer).

The officer roles listed in the SI-100 don’t align particularly well to our leadership structure. In particular, we have two co-chairs, and no such “chief executive officer” nor “president” role. As such, these titles have effectively no bearing on the internal operation of the chapter. There may be fine-print legal responsibilities attached to these designations, but thus far it has not been a concern except as a requirement for completing the SI-100. What’s more important is that the names do reflect current leadership, as opposed to past leadership.

2. Bank signers for 501(c)(4) bank account

Resolution

Addition of new bank signers

The Treasurer, as a requirement of her duties, have access to the chapter’s bank accounts. As a back-up, however, it is prudent to have an additional bank signer who can access Chapter funds in the exigent circumstances. The signers of the EBDSA chapter bank account will be as follows:

Lindsey Moore (treasurer)
AJ Acosta (recording secretary)

The current treasurer, Sean Murphy, is authorized to initiate the transition paperwork at any time after June 21, 2020.

Removal of existing bank signers

Part of onboarding of the incoming Treasurer will require updating the debit cards on various accounts. So that chapter payments may continue while the incoming Treasurer awaits a debit card, it will be helpful to have the current Treasurer’s card remain active for a short period. Therefore, the outgoing Treasurer, Sean Murphy, will remain a bank signer for six weeks following the end of his term to enable this seamless transfer. Therefore, the outgoing Recording Secretary, Mark Gabriel, will be removed as a bank signer as soon as possible.

Rationale

Bank signers are “co-owners” of the chapter bank account, and are authorized to withdraw money, sign checks, change signers, etc. EBDSA’s bank, Beneficial State Bank, requires approved minutes in order to initiate this process. The process itself collecting multiple rounds of signatures from the incoming signers, and takes about a week to complete.

3. Closure of PAC bank account

Resolution

The chapter’s second bank account, originally created for a possible PAC in 2018, will be closed

Rationale

This account existed to support the separate collection of funds for a PAC that, in the end, we never officially formed. It contains no funds and serves no organization purpose at this point.

4. Administration of G-Suite and Password manager

Resolution

The chapter Treasurer shall be the administrator of the chapter’s G-Suite and Password Manager

Rationale

The Treasurer has historically performed these responsibilities and administration of the systems enable the Treasurer to maintain control over sensitive information, including bank account information and passwords.

Following motivation and a period of questions and answers, the resolution PASSED by a unanimous vote.

Discussion items

July GM Special voting rules

Matt S introduced a discussion on the process to establish rules for virtual voting at the July General Membership meeting. The discussion included review of drafted special rules to gather feedback. The chairs will seek support from other members to revise rules and bring a new proposal to the SC.

Convention Planning Working Group

Will S introduced a discussion about planning efforts and goals for an upcoming local chapter convention. The conversation included review and commentary on a drafted outline for a convention plan. A working group will carry the planning forward for future review.

ILWU Port of Oakland shut down debrief

Abigail G-G introduced a discussion about the recent action to support the ILWU shutdown of the Port of Oakland. The discussion included lessons learned and opportunities for future organizing.

The meeting time was extended until 5:15pm.

Update on the office

Sean M introduced a conversation about transitioning office duties between the outgoing and incoming steering committee.

Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 5:15pm.

Addenda

[SC.2020.73] Resolution for Endorsements Subcommittee Changes 2020

Submitted by Allie L, Will S, and Jamie G.

On May 21, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas the endorsements subcommittee guides important decisions of the general body of our chapter about what campaigns the chapter will vote to endorse,

Whereas Bernie Sanders has suspended his campaign and the question about his campaign needs to be revised on the endorsements subcommittee,

Whereas the Steering Committee passed the resolution, Resolution for the EBDSA to Create a Working Group for the National DSA Reproductive Freedom Campaign, which resolved that “all local candidates endorsed by EBDSA vocally, enthusiastically, and unequivocally support abortion rights, access to abortion, the repeal of the Hyde amendment, and full federal, state and/or local funding of abortion,”

Whereas the Endorsements Subcommittee needs more members to handle the likely incoming influx of requests for endorsements to evaluate and research,

Whereas the Endorsements subcommittee is dedicated to recruiting a diverse group of membership to overlook, evaluate and research potential candidates and measures for consideration,

Therefore be it resolved that Jamie G will serve as the chair of the Endorsements subcommittee,

Therefore it be further resolved that Nick R will serve as a member of the subcommittee,

Therefore it be further resolved that the endorsements questionnaire will now include the following question: Do you support abortion rights, access to abortion, the repeal of the Hyde amendment, and full federal, state and/or local funding of abortion?

Therefore it be further resolved that the endorsements questionnaire will now include the following question: Did you participate in Bernie Sanders’ 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns? If so, what was your involvement?

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.74] Resolution Endorsing “A Just Recovery and New Future for California with a Green New Deal”

Submitted by Benny Z and Hillary C.

On May 22, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to massive and growing unemployment on a scale not seen since the Great Depression; and

WHEREAS, the federal government is slowly responding with revenues, some of which are benefiting the working class, and most of which are bailing out sectors of the capitalist class; and

WHEREAS, working-class communities of color have been hit the hardest by COVID-19, makeup both a large proportion of essential workers and those who have lost employment, and are feeling the impact of this crisis at a colossal rate; and

WHEREAS, there is an interlocking and enormous impact of the pandemic alongside climate change and climate-related crisis that mandates a targeted response prioritizing the needs of marginalized communities; and

WHEREAS, East Bay DSA is a part of the Coalition for a California Green New Deal; and

WHEREAS, the coalition has asked the chapter to sign on to the letter to be submitted to Governor Newsom and the Governor’s Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery; and

WHEREAS, “A Just Recovery and New Future for California with a Green New Deal” sets recommendations and demands for creating green jobs and targeted economic during and after COVID, putting the most impacted communities at the front;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that East Bay DSA endorses and signs on to a “A Just Recovery and New Future for California with a Green New Deal”; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the co-chairs of the Green New Deal Committee shall submit East Bay DSA’s endorsement to the Coalition for a California Green New Deal.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 8 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.75] Resolution to Form a Grievance Process Working Group

Submitted by Keith BB, Marissa S, Annika B, and Maura M.

On May 25, Keith BB called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas the East Bay DSA Steering Committee seeks to create a grievance process that supports all members to safely participate in the chapter,

Therefore be it resolved, the Steering Committee will form a Grievance Process Working Group to develop and submit a report by 6/10 along the following guidelines:

Members of the Working Group will consist of Keith BB, Allie L, Marissa S, Annika B, Maura M
The Working Group will solicit input on how to clarify and better support member participation in the grievance process through outreach to chapter HGOs, Membership Engagement Committee, other committee leaders, and members, with a particular focus on members of color, femme and LGBTQ members
The Working Group will develop a report with the following scope:
Lessons learned from recent experience with the grievance process
Recommendations to better inform members on participation in the grievance process
Recommendations to better inform SC members on engagement with the grievance process
Recommendations on potentially establishing a grievance advocate
Recommendations to clarify the roles of HGOs and SC members in our grievance process, in accordance with DSA national Resolution #33.

Therefore be it resolved, the Steering Committee will hold a special online meeting between 6/12 and 6/20, prior to the standard June 21 Steering Committee meeting, to review, debate, and potentially adopt the Grievance Process Working Group report and recommendations.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.76] Resolution to Give the Richmond Libraries Campaign Access to Nationbuilder

Submitted by Lindsey M and Will S.

On May 22, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, the campaign to protect Richmond libraries is a rapidly changing pressure campaign with a short timeframe of no longer than two months, but much more realistically two to three weeks;

Whereas, email updates to our Contra Costa County supporters will be one of the principal ways of building support for the campaign and keeping our membership informed;

Whereas, this campaign will also afford us the ability to reach out to and mobilize our membership in that geographic area, including contacts made during the Bernie campaign;

Therefore be it resolved, that Will S., Lindsey M. and Mimi C. will have access to East Bay DSA’s nationbuilder membership lists, the ability to email, text and otherwise contact our membership in regards to the Richmond libraries campaign, and will consult with the Operations Committee about expanding our technical capacity beyond these limits.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 9 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.77] Resolution to Promote Upcoming Events on the Murder of George Floyd

Submitted by Abigail G-G.

On May 29, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, across the country major mass protests have broken out in response to the brutal murder of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police.

Whereas, these protests are in direct response to years of policing, crushing poverty, and looting by landlords, corporations, and billionaires propped up by the capitalist system that dominates every aspect of our lives.

Whereas, as socialists we need to stand up against the racist system that makes the deaths of so many black and brown people at the hands of police possible.

Whereas, most major cities, including Oakland, spend the bulk of their budgets on racist policing of black and brown working-class communities, instead of funding much needed social services, healthcare, and housing.

Whereas, at the time of the drafting of this resolution only one out of the four police officers involved in the muder of George Floyd has been apprehended and charged.

Therefore be it resolved, that East Bay DSA promote on social media and turn out our members to the Justice for George Floyd & Breonna Taylor Car Caravan happening on Sunday, May 31 and the George Floyd Solidarity March happening on Monday, June 1.

Therefore be it further resolved, that Maura M. and WY Li will coordinate the East Bay DSA contingent and designate a meeting spot for both events.

Therefore be it further resolved, that East Bay DSA will produce and distribute material on how to safely protest while minimizing potential exposure to the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, including but not limited to maintaining social distancing of 6 ft. and wearing protective gear such as masks.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.78] Resolution to purchase the large meeting function for the EBDSA Zoom Account

Submitted by AJ A, Jennifer A, and Avir W.

On May 30, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas the Covid-19 pandemic has prompted the chapter to shift to virtual meetings for members’ health and safety, [refer to resolution Rex wrote to shift meetings to Zoom],

Whereas East Bay DSA has a Zoom account of its own with two accounts capable of hosting meeting up to 100 participants ,

Whereas the EBDSA Night School program,our chapter’s flagship and most well-attended event sometimes exceeding 100 attendees, is now hosted on Zoom,

Whereas two of the last three night schools have been interrupted or disrupted due to error messages when multiple meetings were scheduled at the same time,

Whereas the National DSA Zoom account is shared across multiple chapters and does not have an intake form to schedule meetings to make sure they don’t conflict, and multiple chapters and individuals have access to the account which could unknowingly cause a meeting to end abruptly,

Whereas our current chapter Zoom Pro account can’t accommodate more than 100 participants, however the Large Meeting upgrade can accommodate 500 participants,

Whereas the price to purchase the Large Meeting feature is approximately another $50 per month additionally,

Therefore it should be resolved that the East Bay DSA Steering Committee authorize an additional expenditure of $50 per month to upgrade our EBDSA Zoom account.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 12 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.79] Resolution for Art Build on May 31, 2020

Submitted by Kaela SH, Cooper R, Jeremy Y, Annika B

On May 30, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

WHEREAS George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, was murdered by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin on May 25,2020, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade and countless other Black and Brown people have been murdered by the police and vigilantes;

WHEREAS, a Black-led rebellion is happening in cities across the country in response to state-sanctioned violence, murder and brutalizing of Black and Brown people; as socialists, we should respond to urgent calls for action in the name of George Floyd; uplift and support organizing that honors and protects Black life, and prioritize anti-racist organizing as a pillar for a socalist future;

WHEREAS, production of art provides the opportunity to create community, bring in new members, engage existing members in work, and build important coalitions. Vibrant art and propaganda are effective tools to support Black-led organizing to combat white supremacy and police murder;

WHEREAS, Cooper R, Kaela SH, and Jeremy Y can provide coordinated materials for our members to have an organized presence;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that East Bay DSA will host an art build on May 31, with an estimated budget of $250.00, for supplies including but not limited to paint, fabric, paper, masks, gloves, pickets, and ink.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that EBDSA will utilize its social media channels to promote and do turnout for the art build

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the art build will happen outside, with proper social distancing and COVID precautions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 10 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.80] East Bay DSA Draft Statement on George Floyd

On May 30, Keith BB called an email vote to approve the following statement.

East Bay DSA stands in solidarity with George Floyd, may he rest in power, with his family, and with the millions of Black people who fear death because of the violence of white supremacy in the United States. The murder in broad daylight of another Black man in the United States has triggered massive popular protest around the country, not just because of this singular event, but because of the terror of racism Black people have faced in this country since before its founding. From slavery to segregation, vigilante terror to police terror, the black working class has faced unspeakable horror at the hands of those who have claimed to represent law and order. Today, we stand together against the tyranny of racist capitalism and all those who enforce it.

The East Bay is no stranger to police brutality or effective militant struggle against it. In 1966, the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense was founded, in part, to address day-to-day violence against Black people by the Oakland Police Department as a key struggle against US racial capitalism. Their movement opened the way for a generation of far-left organizers in the US and offered a model for militancy based on local conditions. 43 years later, the murder of Oscar Grant by local mass transit police at Fruitvale Station ignited a Black-led uprising against police terror. That insurgency directly led to others, including Occupy and Black Lives Matter, snowballing over the course of a decade into a nationwide renaissance of working-class struggle that galvanized a generation.

Since the tragic shooting of Oscar Grant in 2009, over 242 people have been shot and killed by the police in the Bay Area: Derrick Jones, Raheim Brown Jr., Kenneth Harding Jr., Alan Blueford, Derrick Gaines, Mario Romero, Mario Woods, and many others who did not receive media attention. The struggle continues and the work is far from complete.

In light of the murders of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia, Breonna Taylor in Kentucky, Steve Taylor in San Leandro just last month, and the countless working class victims of police violence all across the country, we join the mass demands that local, state and federal officials institute the following policies to stem the bloodshed in our communities now!

Charge all officers involved in police brutality and murder cases, as well as those involved with corruption charges, sex offenses, and those collaborating with ICE.
Defund and demilitarize the Oakland Police Department, and all police departments.
Eliminate the Oakland School Police.
Fire Sheriff Ahern and defund the Alameda County Sheriff’s Department.
Fund services, housing, education, libraries and hospitals instead of policing.
Reduce the population and improve conditions at Santa Rita County Jail, where COVID is rapidly spreading, and reform late-night release policies that have led to deaths.
Close all immigrant detention centers and release ICE detainees.

Given the Republican party’s explicit white supremacist politics, and the Democrats’ elite neoliberal politics, the only available avenue for black working people to exercise their outrage is mass protest. As Minneapolis has shown us, these protests cannot be suppressed or ignored. It is the reality: mass protests are coming in the East Bay. What is less certain is how the thousands of working people who will hit the streets (and who will go home to loved ones of all generations) can stay as safe from COVID-19 as possible.

With a membership including healthcare, education, and essential workers of all varieties, East Bay DSA is highly sensitive to the risk this virus poses to the people of our community. For those facing the heart wrenching decision of joining this latest upsurge in Black struggle, on the one hand, and struggling to avoid the dangers of the virus, on the other, we offer the following guidelines to keep yourself and loved ones as safe as possible, all things considered:

Shelter-in-place and complete isolation are the only definite protections against the virus. If you are high-risk or suffer from chronic respiratory conditions, or are in close contact with somebody who is, we highly advise you consider sitting these protests out.
Bring a change of clothes! Change your clothes and shoes before re-entering your home if you have loved ones you do not want to expose. Immediately wash your clothes at the highest heat possible.
Shower immediately when arriving home.
Wear face coverings, only well fitting and properly tightened N95 masks will keep COVID-19 out, but anything helps. This is not about protecting yourself, but protecting your comrades from you!
Consider wearing gloves, either disposable ones that can be thrown away right after the action or ones that can be immediately washed or wiped down. Gloves will also encourage you not to touch your face.
Wear goggles (helps with the virus and the tear gas!)
Practice physical distancing at least 6 feet apart
Stay calm and de-escalate tension with other protestors around health practices. Encourage others to wear masks. We want to keep ourselves safe from the virus and the police!

We offer these tips in a spirit of genuine concern and support for an uprising born of necessity, with the understanding that those participating are doing so out of a legitimate fear that allowing George Floyd’s murder to go unanswered poses a risk of its own. We don’t intend to make that call for anyone; but an offering to keep each other as safe as possible in the face of extraordinary circumstances in our fight for justice. Find more safety tips

East Bay DSA has officially endorsed and calls on our members to attend the Justice for George Floyd & Breonna Taylor Car Caravan organized by the Anti Police Terror Project (APTP) this Sunday, and the George Floyd Solidarity March called by Oakland Tech student leaders Monday June 1st at 4pm. More details on these actions will be coming soon.

No Justice, No Peace,

East Bay DSA Steering Committee

The statement was APPROVED by a vote of 12 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.81] Resolution to Endorse the Town Sits OUT the Curfew

Submitted by Abigail G-G.

On June 2, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, protests and actions continue in the wake of the murder of Geroge Floyd.

Whereas, a curfew has been imposed in Alameda County from 8pm-5am through Thursday, June 5th.

Whereas, APTP and other Bay Area orgs are resisting the curfew.

Therefore be it resolved, that East Bay DSA promote on social media and turn out our members to the event the Town Sits OUT the Curfew happening on June 3.

Therefore be it further resolved, that Allie L. Jeremy Y., Eric R., Luci R., Maura M., AJ A., and Nick T. will serve as bottoliners for East Bay DSA.

Therefore be it further resolved, that social media promotion will include information on how to safely protest while minimizing potential exposure to the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, including but not limited to maintaining social distancing of 6 ft. and wearing protective gear such as masks.

Therefore be it further resolved that the Steering Committee will draft a statement to members advising them that police violence is highly likely, that they must all make individual determinations about whether they will be physically present, and that if they are present they will do everything they can to keep each other safe.

Therefore be it further resolved that all those who choose to engage in civil disobedience as East Bay DSA members will adhere to our code of conduct and be responsible for making safety preparations before risking arrest.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 13 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.82] Resolution to Sign Oakland Coalition for Police Accountability Letter

Submitted by Keith BB.

On June 3, Keith BB called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas East Bay DSA is committed to organize for an end to police violence and the racist capitalism that produces it,

Whereas a Coalition for Police Accountability and associated activists, including 2018 Oakland Mayoral candidate Pamela Price and others instrumental in passing and executing Oakland's 2016 Measure LL, have asked for community group support for their letter to Oakland City Council, demanding to strengthen Oakland's Police Commission with independent hiring and investigative authority, as outlined in Appendix A and B below,

Whereas we believe reforms to police like oversight commissions are not the end-point of our strategy, but can help expose and achieve justice in response to police brutality,

Whereas this letter offers an opportunity to build closer alliance with activists and groups likely to be committed to future campaigns to defund police,

Therefore be it resolved, the East Bay DSA Steering Committee will sign on to the June 4th 2020 police accountability coalition letter to Oakland City Council for a strengthened police oversight commission.

Appendix A: Coalition description of the letter and demands

We got yet another reminder of the crying need for effective and powerful civilian oversight of the police from both the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the brutal overreactions of police departments across the country to the resulting demonstrations.

Oakland has the potential to be different and to lead the way for the rest of the country. We have a strong community-led Police Commission to oversee our police department. It was created in 2016 by Measure LL which was approved by more than 83% of the voters. But the city administration’s resistance has hobbled the Commission. Its powers need to be clarified in a new ballot measure that would further amend the City Charter.

Your Coalition has partnered with the Police Commission to create a draft Charter amendment that will allow the Commission to be truly effective in ensuring that the Oakland Police Department is firmly and permanently dedicated to constitutional policing. And to transition from federal oversight through the NSA to local oversight by the Commission.

But to get our draft before the voters, it has to be approved by a majority of the City Council. This won’t be easy. The police union and its allies are doing everything they can to turn the clock back and return power from the community back to the police. So we’re not just trying to move the ball forward—we’ve also got to stop it from being pushed backward.

We can only be successful if the community is fully mobilized and vocal. You are the key to the success of effective police oversight in Oakland.

Our draft City Charter amendment is attached to this letter. Here are the main changes from current law that the Coalition and the Police Commission are proposing:

1. The Commission can hire its own attorneys, who will report to it and not the City Attorney.

2. The Commission will be able to hire an Inspector General who will audit the police department and be able to recommend policy changes to the Commission.

3. The Commission will have access to all police department records and files.

4. The Commission will be able to impose discipline in cases where the investigations have not been completed in time or when required body camera footage has not been used in earlier discipline proceedings.

Appendix B: Full legislative text of the coalition letter's requested changes to the Oakland Police Commission statute

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1i_vf3JuL3CcXlQGecCsmcKyuMUo7iVcK/view?usp=sharing

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 7 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.83] Resolution to Endorse the Fremont March for Black Lives

Submitted by Keith BB.

On June 3, Keith BB called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas East Bay DSA is committed to organize for an end to racist capitalism,

Whereas the March for Black Lives: Fremont pledges a peaceful demonstration on June 4th from 4:30-6:30pm, around demands to defund police in response to the police murder of George Floyd,

Whereas member Jordan S. is an experienced organizer from our Bernie campaign who lives in Fremont and will be attending the event,

Therefore be it resolved, East Bay DSA endorses the March for Black Lives: Fremont on June 4, 2020, will publicize the event on our events calendar and social media,

Therefore be it resolved, East Bay DSA will connect interested members (including by posting an RSVP form on the chapter event) with member Jordan S., as a point person for East Bay DSA members to gather for the event, and coordinate with chapter leadership as needed.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 10 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.84] Resolution to Establish an East Bay DSA Temporary Bail Fund

Submitted by Lindsey M and Sean M.

On June 3, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, the racist murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police has led to mass protests across the world,

Whereas, East Bay DSA members are committed to fighting for an end to racist capitalism and are participating and will continue to take part in ongoing protest actions in Oakland and the East Bay,

Whereas, police both across the country and in Oakland have engaged in escalation through violent confrontation and arrest of protesters,

Therefore be it resolved, that East Bay DSA a create Temporary Fund for Jail Support and Bail. The Fund shall initially open for donations if and when the Steering Committee determines it is needed. The fund shall sunset on June 30 2020 unless extended by a Steering Committee vote. Money in the Fund may be used at the discretion of the Steering Committee for the following purposes:

To pay bail, fines, legal fees, or related expenses on behalf of East Bay DSA members and participants in endorsed chapter activities

Therefore be it further resolved that the Treasurer may use money from the general fund in the amount equal to that raised for the Temporary Fund before transfers from the donation site to the Chapter’s bank account in order to respond to time sensitive requests of the funds for the purposes defined above.

Therefore be it further resolved that any money left over after the Fund sunsets will be directed to a bail fund project chosen by the Steering Committee.

Therefore be it further resolved that the Chapter’s donations requests for the Temporary Fund will also be accompanied by a request for donations to the Bay Area Anti- Repression Committee Bail Fund and/or the Anti Police Terror Project to support bail funds for the broader Oakland community.

Therefore it further resolved that Lindsey Moore be added as a co-signer on the Chapter’s bank accounts to assist the Treasurer prior to Lindsey’s assumption of the Treasurer position on 6/24/2020

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.85] Resolution to Endorse the Save Richmond Libraries Car Caravan

Submitted by Will S, Michael T, and Sam C.

On June 4, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas East Bay DSA previously endorsed the fight against Richmond library closures and cuts;

Whereas the Richmond city council plans on voting on the budget in the coming weeks;

Whereas community members would like to take public action to engage more community members in the fight against library closures and cuts;

Whereas the coalition is planning a car caravan and guerilla storytime as car caravans have received substantial media attention and are attractive;

Whereas the event is centered around children and their families and we want to abide by social distancing;

Whereas the planning group for the action does not have many funds and would like to have artwork and other materials to make the caravan a success;

Therefore be it resolved that East Bay DSA endorses and supports the car caravan for Richmond libraries on Saturday, June 6th starting at 10am and will promote it on social media and to our membership;

Therefore be it resolved the Richmond Libraries campaign be allocated $200 for materials to decorate and support the event.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 10 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.86] Resolution to Endorse McDonalds Worker Action on Friday June 5

Submitted by Kaela SH.

On June 5, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

WHEREAS, 33 out of 35 workers have been on strike at a North Oakland McDonalds store, 4514 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, since Tuesday May 26, 2020; and

WHEREAS, These 33 workers decided to strike after asking management for PPE and they were offered coffee filters and dog diapers as masks; furthermore, they have not received hazard pay or adequate healthcare; and

WHEREAS, 10 out of the 33 workers are sick with COVID, with more still waiting for results. 6 family members of these workers have contracted COVID; and

WHEREAS, community members, artists, faith leaders and local electeds are gathering for an art installation and action in solidarity with the striking workers on Friday June 5; and

WHEREAS, Kaela SH, Cooper R, and Cora L have coordinated with Fight for $15 to organize this action; therefore be it

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That East Bay DSA will endorse this action and amplify on chapter social media channels.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 10 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.87] Resolution to Endorse Black Organizing Project Actions

Submitted by Hillary C.

On June 5, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, EBDSA has passed a resolution to fight against racist austerity in schools, fight budget cuts, and stop school closures,

Whereas, police in schools costs the district $6.5 million/year while there are cuts to services such as libraries, restorative justice, and mental health counselors,

Whereas, EBDSA has passed a resolution to protest the last three board meetings over budget cuts, police in schools, and racist austerity in coalition with the Black Organizing Project, who has signed on to the demands,

Whereas, the Black Organizing Project is organizing simultaneous actions tonight such as a caravan rally at La Escuelita and actions to pressure the school Board Directors who support maintaining the OUSD police department.

Therefore be it resolved that EBDSA will endorse a caravan rally at La Escuelita tonight as well as actions at the Oakland School Board Directors’ houses to demand police free schools.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 9 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.88] Resolution to Host MST & DSA Call

Submitted by Esperanza F and K M

On June 6, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 committee is charged with organizing monthly organizing call for members and non-members, and;

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 crisis is international and requires an internationalist organizing approach, and;

WHEREAS, the Movimento dos Trabalhadores Sem Terra (MST) in Brazil is interested in a panel conversation with East Bay DSA;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that East Bay DSA will host a panel discussion with MST international relations collective director, Cassia, organized by K M. and Esperanza F between EBDSA and the MST.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the conversation will be hosted over Zoom in the next two weeks and will be open to members and non-members alike, and will focus on developing a socialist response to the COVID crisis between our countries and tailored to be relevant to what is going on right now.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 7 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.89] Resolution to Purchase a Portable PA System

Submitted by: Robb G, Cooper R, Jeremy Y, Molly S, Max M, Jess B, and Neha C.

On June 6, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas every EBDSA action, rally, canvass, workshop, and class benefits from clear amplification of our voices. Too often, people are forced to scream due to absent or inadequate sound reinforcement. The content of our actions is not accessible if it is not loud.

Whereas during COVID-19, social distancing means that sound must travel much further to reach the same number of ears. Our chapter needs a very loud, easy-to-use, self-contained, battery powered sound system. Bad sound at crowded events can contribute to COVID infections.

Whereas the EBDSA currently has some sound equipment, but it is far from portable, and made of components owned and stored in various locations, requiring a mixer, an inverter, several batteries, cords, and most importantly, expertise to operate.

Therefore, be it resolved that the EBDSA shall purchase and own a simple, portable, and loud sound system for use at our actions and those we endorse for the cost of $900 (details below).

Be it further resolved that for the duration of shelter in place the system should live with a designated sound person who will go to every event the DSA endorses. For now, Robb Godshaw volunteers for this position, as he is doing sound at our events anyway. A spreadsheet hosted in an EBDSA Google Drive folder will be used to track handoffs, complete with who had it, who has it now, and their contact information. The last person to sign it out responsible for the unit.

Be it also resolved that when COVID restrictions are lifted, it will be stored at the office. And labeled with clear instructions for easy use.

What

1. JBL EON Compact speaker with speaker stand and wired mic

a. At 112 db, it is very, very loud, especially for a battery powered speaker. b. 18 lbs incl battery c. $550 (some used units are on ebay for about $410)

2. Backpack case (This will keep it together and allow us to take it to pedestrian

demonstrations) a. $99 3. Wireless microphone system (This system is powered from the speaker itself and plugs in

with a simple aux cable)

a. $135 4. Microphone sanitizer spray (rubbing alcohol)

a. $12 x 4 = 48 5. Misc cables (mostly mini-to-mini (aux) )

a. $45 6. Sum (pre tax unshipped): $877

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 9 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.90] Resolution to Relaunch East Bay DSA’s Electoral Organizing

Submitted by Katy S, Jim I, Lindsey M, Miguel B, Will S.

On June 6, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, Bernie Sanders has suspended his campaign for presidency and many members who volunteered during the campaign are looking to the horizon.

Whereas, to maintain the momentum and organizing skills learned during the campaign, there is a need to recohere people around electoral organizing.

Whereas, this committee must begin organizing for elections occurring in November both locally and nationally.

Whereas, New York City DSA is running a slate of democratic socialist candidates for local and national office, many of whom are expected to have hotly contested races. NYC DSA has requested support from branches across the country in phone-banking efforts.

Whereas, The following candidates have been endorsed by both DSA and the NYC chapter of DSA: Marcela Mitaynes, Phara Souffrant, Jabari Brisport, Samelys López, and Zohran K Mamdani

Whereas, the scope of this committee must extend beyond the current year of elections and apply even to elections in 2022. The current name of the committee: “2020 Committee” must be changed to reflect that fact as well as to clarify its larger purpose.

Whereas, Will Shattuc current co-chair of the 2020 committee was recently elected to be vice-chair of East Bay DSA’s Steering Committee for the coming year, a position that will require more of their time.

Therefore be it resolved that chapter resources are mobilized to assist NYC DSA in their already existing virtual phone-banks. The chapter website and social media accounts would be used to encourage East Bay DSA membership to take part in these phonebanks.The existing phone banks run by NYC DSA are conducted every weeknight at 6-9pm eastern, and on weekday afternoons.

Therefore be it further resolved that the name of the committee shall be changed to the “Electoral Committee”. This name will more fully communicate the purpose and goals of the committee.

Therefore be it further resolved that Will Shattuc shall resign from their position as co-chair of the 2020 Committee.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 9 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.91] Racial Solidarity Committee Campaign to Defund the Oakland Police Department

Submitted by Kara M, Ruwi S, Neha C, Ashley P, Gaston L, Hasan C, and Allie L.

On June 7, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas in 2019 the DSA convention approved resolution #54 that called for action that will “elevate the leadership of black, brown & indigenous people, will identify potential coalitions with existing community-led organizations toward the reduction of policing budgets, the expansion of civilian oversight of policing, & the promotion & funding of alternatives to carceral systems including offender-victim dialogue, conferencing, & sentencing circles.”

Whereas the By-Laws of the East Bay Chapter of the Democratic Socialist of America state that “we seek an end to mass incarceration, deportations, and police terror.”

Whereas the deaths of citizens like George Floyd, Ahmaud Aubrey, Breonna Taylor, and Tony McDade have sparked a national movement against police brutality and raised awareness about the everyday reality of police terror that many Black and Brown people face daily.

Whereas the Oakland Police Department receives 44% of Oakland’s general fund while necessary social services such as housing, transportation, and human services receive less than 5% combined.

Whereas East Bay DSA recognizes the many years of work that black-led organizations have done to defund policy nationally and in Oakland specifically.

Whereas East Bay DSA has the unique benefit of hundreds of members that may be mobilized on a campaign to defund the Oakland Police Department.

Therefore let it be resolved that East Bay DSA will organize a campaign to defund the Oakland Police department led by Black and Brown members, who will do this work in solidarity with and in order to support established Black-led organizations already engaged in work against police terror in Oakland.

Be it further resolved that the campaign be chaired by Racial Solidarity Committee members:

Kara M, Ruwi S and Neha C and the working group will be supported at the onset by Rex LC, Allie L, Matt S, Luke T, and Shane R.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 13 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.92] Resolution to Endorse the Fremont March for Black Lives

Submitted by Katie F and AJ A.

On June 8, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas East Bay DSA is committed to organize for an end to racist capitalism,

Whereas the Berkeley High Students Call to Protest: Stand with Black Youth (San Pablo Park) pledges a peaceful rally and march on June 9th, starting at 4pm, around demands to value Black Lives,

Whereas members Katie F., AJ A., and Dani A., as well as others in the chapter will be attending and supporting the student organizers in planning the event,

Therefore be it resolved, East Bay DSA endorses the Berkeley High Students Call to Protest: Stand with Black Youth on June 9, 2020,

Therefore be it resolved, East Bay DSA will support student organizers with the following:

Facebook event
Publicize the event on our events calendar and social media
Remote safety support
Hand sanitizer & water
Medics

Therefore be it resolved, East Bay DSA will connect interested members (including by posting an RSVP form on the chapter event) with members Katie F., AJ A., and Dani A., as a point people for East Bay DSA members to gather for the event, and coordinate with chapter leadership as needed.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.93] Resolution for Emergency Art Supplies Funds 6/8/20

Submitted by Neder GS, Cora L, Claire R, Cooper R, Kaela SH, Jeremy Y, Maura M.

On June 9, Keith BB called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas in this political and social moment, actions, events and calls for art and propaganda are frequent and often occur with short notice;

Whereas comrades in DSA and coalition organizations participating in mass actions can be agents of agitational propaganda, visible both to the action's participants and media coverage;

Whereas beautiful, communicative, concise revolutionary art is an important material support that DSA can provide to emerging organic leaders and established organizations when collaborating on or sponsoring a direct action;

Whereas the authors of this resolution have repeatedly demonstrated the value and function of socialist art in collaboration and coalition with the EBDSADesign Working Group, EBDSA Bernie 2020 campaign, EBDSA Green New Deal Committee, Fight for Fifteen, rapid response labor actions, the Anti-Police Terror Project, and prominent local artists;

Whereas buying supplies in bulk is easier, cheaper and—due to COVID—safer by limiting our trips to the store;

Whereas art is great! and as Albert Einstein said “The Revolution introduced me to art, and in turn, art introduced me to the Revolution!”

Therefore be it resolved, that the East Bay DSA shall allocate $800 for the purchasing of art supplies (detailed below);

Be it further resolved that all supplies purchased will be put towards creating art for DSA organized, endorsed or affiliated events;

Be it further resolved that supplies purchased and where they’re stored shall be logged in a spreadsheet (here) until COVID restrictions are lifted after which, if any remain, they’ll be moved to the EBDSA office.

Supplies to be purchased:

- Paint: acrylic and house paint for the making of banners and hand signs

- Fabric: muslin and canvas for banners

- Paper: for screen-printed posters

- Armatures: dowels and lathe for hand signs and structured banners

- Ink: for screen-printed posters

For reference, in the past 9 days the authors of this resolution and other comrades utilized a $250 chapter-approved budget (along with leftover supplies from previous projects) to create:

4 large fabric banners
Fists raised in unison, square 5’ x 5’ feet
Fists breaking chains, square 5’ x 5’ feet
“Revolution Against Police Brutality”, rectangle 7’ x 10’
“Defund, Disarm, Dismantle”, rectangle 3’ x 5’
4 George Floyd banners, 3’ x 4’ feet
100 18” x 24” screen printed posters (“Black Lives Matter”, “No Prisons, No Police”)
80 fabric flags with messaging on sticks
~30 stenciled cardboard hand signs
60 block-printed face bandanas
20 block-printed patches
500 8.5” x 11” brochures
200 chant quarter-sheets
500 safety half-sheet handouts

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.94] Resolution to Appoint a New Membership Engagement Committee Co-Chair

Submitted by Jess W and Andrew R.

On June 9, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, Jess W. is stepping down as co-chair of the Membership Engagement Committee (MEC) and Andrew R. is the only remaining co-chair;

Whereas, Sam C. has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the MEC’s work, including the mobilizers program and organizer training events, and played a leading role in East Bay DSA’s campaign to elect Bernie Sanders;

Whereas, Sam C. was voted in as Co-Chair through a MEC email vote on May 24th;

Therefore be it resolved that the East Bay DSA Steering Committee acknowledges and approves Jess W.’s departure as co-chair of the Member Engagement Committee,

Be it further resolved, that the East Bay DSA Steering Committee appoint Sam C. as a Co-Chair of the Membership Engagement Committee effective immediately.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.95] Resolution to Endorse Weekend Marches

Submitted by Lew L.

On June 11, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, EBDSA has passed a resolution to fight against racist austerity in schools, fight budget cuts, and stop school closures,

Whereas, police in schools costs the district $6.5 million/year while there are cuts to services such as libraries, restorative justice, and mental health counselors,

Whereas, OUSD’s board is considering the elimination of their police department and actions to pressure the school Board Directors is needed,

Therefore be it resolved that EBDSA will endorse and coordinate with a number of organizations and/or individual members of those organizations in marches listed below:

1) Sunday 2pm, June 14th– March on foot and in a car caravan from La Escuelita through Lake Merritt to Lakeview Elementary, a closed school. Speeches on the history of cuts in the district while spending millions on police. Speakers from the previous occupation of Lakeview.

2) Saturday 5pm, June 20th – March from 14th and Broadway to Cole Elementary. Speeches and sit-in at the driveway of the entrances. Stay until the June 24th budget vote.

Partner groups: BOP, DSA, OPEN, OEA, SEIU, ONFS, Sunrise, Action2020, Youth vs. Apocalypse, and students

Therefore be it resolved that EBDSA will work with listed groups and/or individual members of those organizations in fulling the roles and needs of the marches,

Needs and roles:

Safety team and drivers in the back to protect protestors from rogue traffic

Livestream

Marching band

Media

Traffic monitor

Sound and megaphones

Projector

Power source

Food/Water

Bathrooms access

Jail support

Legal observers

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.96] Resolution to Endorse Labor March/Action SAY THEIR NAMES - Oakland-Berkeley

Submitted by Abigail G-G.

On June 11, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, major mass protests continue in response to the brutal murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery at the hands of the police and white supremacists, and East Bay DSA has been actively supporting these marches and protests.

Whereas, East Bay DSA recognizes the critical role of labor in helping coalesce the multiracial, working class to fight for transformative changes inside and outside the workplace.

Whereas, SEIU 1021, in collaboration with other unions, is holding a march/action for the unjust murders by Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor & George Floyd and all at the hands of police on Saturday, June 13 from 11am-2pm.

Therefore Be it Resolved, East Bay DSA will endorse, promote on social media, and turn out members to Labor March/Action SAY THEIR NAMES - Oakland-Berkeley.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 12 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.97] Resolution to Endorse "Juneteenth: End Police Terror"

(ILWU Work Action + Community Rally)

Submitted by Molly S, Brendan K, Aaron H, Richard M, Annika B, Rex LC, and Matt S.

On June 12, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas a mass uprising and militant surge in the Black Lives Matter movement was triggered by the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and is ongoing in Oakland and around the country;

Whereas the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) is taking action at the point of production calling for an end to police terror on Juneteenth (June 19th, 2020), by shutting down all 29 ports on the West Coast for eight hours that day;

Whereas ILWU Local 10 is a predominantly African-American local, representing longshore workers throughout the Bay Area;

Whereas Juneteenth is the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and a day to celebrate Black resistance and demand Black liberation;

Whereas the ILWU, and Local 10 in particular, has been in the vanguard of the labor movement when it comes to fighting racism, white supremacy and police murder. Among other things, in 1942, Local 10 was the sole union speaking out against the unlawful internment of over 100,000 Japanese-Americans. In 1967, Local 10 conferred honorary membership on Rev. King, who told its members,“I don’t feel like a stranger here in the midst of the ILWU. We have been strengthened and energized by the support you have given to our struggles.” In 2010, Local 10 shut down the ports to demand justice for Oscar Grant after he was murdered by a BART police officer. And since 2015, Local 10 has shut down the ports each year on May Day to protest police repression unleashed against African Americans;

Whereas a “Committee To End Police Terror & Systemic Racism” was formed by the presidents of ILWU Locals 10, 34, 75 & 91 to support this action and seek widespread community and union participation;

Whereas the committee is organizing a demonstration/caravan/rally that will start at the SSA Terminal and end at Oscar Grant Plaza;

Whereas East Bay DSA and DSA SF have been invited to participate in the committee and endorse the action;

Therefore be it resolved that East Bay DSA endorse ILWU’s Juneteenth work action and community rally;

Be it further resolved that East Bay DSA will utilize its social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, to promote the action;

Be it further resolved that up to $500 be allocated to reimburse expenses from the event including but not limited to art, water, snacks, PPE, sunscreen, and flyers;

Be it further resolved that Labor Committee members will coordinate the EBDSA involvement in the action, coordinating with MEC for member turn-out via text-bank and with Communications for design, video, and social media promotion, and coordination with DSA SF’s involvement in the action;

Be it further resolved that the co-chairs shall forward this resolution immediately to DSA chapters in port cities on the West Coast, including Seattle, Tacoma, Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego, with an invitation to join East Bay DSA in endorsing and supporting this action.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 12 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.98] Resolution to expand Endorsements Subcommittee

Submitted by Allie L, Will S, Jamie G.

On June 13, Keith BB called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas the Endorsements Subcommittee guides important decisions of the general body of our chapter about what campaigns the chapter will vote to endorse,

Whereas there are several candidates and measures that need to be researched by the subcommittee,

Whereas Jess B and Steph H are dedicated East Bay DSA organizers,

Therefore be it resolved that the Endorsements Subcommittee add Jess B and Steph H as members.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 10 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.99] Resolution to Endorse Action Against Contra Costa County Sheriff

Submitted by Will S and Luci R.

On June 14, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas progressive groups in Contra Costa County lead by ACCE have been organizing against the Sheriff expanding jails and police presence in the county for years;

Whereas the Contra Costa County Sheriff is calling for a $2.8 million dollar increase in his budget;

Whereas ACCE and partner groups are calling for a decrease of his budget, and that those funds be allocated to mental health services, healthcare, housing and youth programs, vital services that actually better the lives of working-class people rather than policing them;

Whereas ACCE and partner groups are also calling for the immediate closure of Juvenile hall, and the immediate release of all juveniles, those within 6 months of release, and the elderly from detention;

Whereas ACCE and partner groups are also calling for the Sheriff and county supervisors to return all campaign contributions they've received from the Contra Costa County Deputy Sheriff’s association;

Whereas Contra Costa ACCE is organizing a car caravan to the house of the Sheriff David O. Livingston on Monday 6/15;

Therefore be it resolved that East Bay DSA endorses the car caravan and will publicize it to our membership;

Therefore be it further resolved that Luci R. will be the point person for coordinating with the caravan.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 7 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.100] Resolution to request funding reimbursement

Submitted by AJ Acosta.

On June 14, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas the East Bay DSA steering committee endorsed protests at Oakland Tech (June 1st), Oscar Grant Plaza (June 3rd) and Berkeley High (June 10th),

Whereas it was determined after the success of the aid table at the protest on June 1st that East Bay DSA be present to provide mutual aid support for our members and our community,

Whereas AJ A was the designated mutual aid supply coordinator for the protests on June 3rd and June 10th and used personal funds to buy water, snacks, masks, gloves and other protest related supplies to set up a mutual aid table,

Therefore it be resolved that AJ A be reimbursed in the amount of $234.41 for purchases related to these supplies.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 9 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.101] Resolution on Public Messaging on Oakland Budget Amendment

Submitted by Matt S.

On June 15, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas East Bay DSA recently launched our campaign to Defund the Oakland Police Department, and

Whereas Oakland City Councilmember Nikki Fortunato Bas has released a proposed budget amendment that reallocates $25M (~7% of the OPD budget) to public services and other measures to be voted on by June 30 and,

Whereas coalition partners such as the Anti-Police Terror Project have been demanding much greater cuts, calling for $150M in cuts (50% of the OPD budget).

Therefore be it resolved that East Bay DSA will adopt the following guidelines in publicly messaging around Councilmember Bas’s proposed amendment:

East Bay DSA will not formally endorse Councilmember Bas’s proposed amendment.
We will push Oakland City Council to adopt the proposed amendment as a bare minimum demand.
We will remain publicly neutral toward Councilmember Bas on this issue through June 30.
We will make clear the urgent need to keep fighting to defund the police beyond these midcycle budget amendments and affirm the demand for at least $150M in budget cuts.
We will emphasize the need to continue to tax the rich to expand our city, county, and state budgets.

Be it further resolved that we approve this email calling for our members to submit E-comments at the June 16 Oakland City Council meeting.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 12 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.102] Resolution to Sign Letter to Defund RPD

Submitted by Will S.

On June 16, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas the Richmond Police Department Accounts for 41% of city spending while crucial city services are being threatened with cuts due to budget shortfall from the coronavirus;

Whereas a coalition of groups including ACCE, RPA, Communities for a Better Environment, Rich City Rides, the Ryse Center, and hopefully unions including CNA are issuing a letter in support of a motion that will be made to defund the police at the 6/16 Council Meeting;

Whereas the demands of the letter are:

A 20% reduction of police budget
A immediate freeze on all additional RPD spending
Creation of an ad-hoc committee to transfer responsibilities out of police into other social services

Therefore be it resolved East Bay DSA signs on to the letter to Reimagine Safety and will support this motion with whatever assistance we deem necessary.

Letter text: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eA5LawlLvxgeKyCyHNDnGKcC6tDeCDOEzGfctr_1LOk/edit

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 12 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.103] Resolution for the formation of a Direct Action Working Group of the Steering Committee

Submitted by Kaela SH, Molly S, and Mark G.

On June 16, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, East Bay DSA has been organizing for mass demonstrations in response to the police murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery; and

Whereas, the organizers involved in planning for these actions have been meeting to discuss lessons learned and the opportunity to develop skills and strategy for future direct action; and

Whereas, collective direct action is a tactic that socialists can employ to exercise power and demand concessions; and

Whereas, Molly S, Kaela S-H, have experience related to the planning and execution of direct action, and are active members of East Bay DSA;

Therefore be it resolved, the Steering Committee shall form a Direct Action working group for the purpose of building the chapter’s capacity to carry out direct action,

Therefore be it further resolved, the working group’s responsibilities shall include:

Creating and maintaining direct action protocols and training resources
Working with East Bay DSA Committees to develop strategy and capacity for applying direct action in chapter campaigns
Organizing direct actions that may fall outside the scope of existing chapter campaigns, upon approval of the Steering Committee or the General Membership
Working with the Operations Committee to develop mechanisms for rapidly mobilizing members for participating in chapter approved actions
Establishing relationships and channels of communication with other groups engaged in direct action

Therefore be it further resolved, the trainings and protocols developed by the working group shall be focused on preparing members to fulfill the following roles:

Marshall
Medic
Police Liaison
Legal support

Therefore be it further resolved, the Steering Committee shall appoint Molly S and Kaela S-H as the chairs of the working group, who will be responsible for the planning and administration of the working group, in coordination with the elected Chapter Chairs.

Therefore be it resolved, the appointed chairs shall be responsible for reporting to the Steering Committee on the progress of the working group.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 9 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.104] Resolution to Endorse the Berkeley HS “Pay Your Dues” March

Submitted by Katie F, AJ A,, Dahlia W, and Theo S.

On June 16, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas East Bay DSA is committed to organize for an end to racial capitalism,

Whereas Berkeley High students and Black at Berkeley (the Cal Black Student Union) are organizing a peaceful rally and march on June 23rd, starting at 3pm at Ashby BART and marching to Codornices Park,

Whereas the march aims to “interrogate Berkeley’s legacy of racism and reinvest in the Black community” and bring the BLM movement to the Berkeley Hills,

Whereas EBDSA members Katie F. and AJ A. and Albany YDSA members Dahlia W. and Theo S., as well as others in the chapter will be attending and supporting the student organizers in planning the event,

Therefore be it resolved, East Bay DSA endorses the Pay Your Dues march on June 23, 2020,

Therefore be it also resolved, East Bay DSA and Albany YDSA will support student organizers with the following:

Promotion (social media, Facebook event)
Security Marshalls (to guide traffic and de-escalate if necessary)
Logistics support (through remote scanners and an on-the-ground Signal chat)
Recruit medics
Hand sanitizer
Water
Masks
Snacks
Update 6-16 7:41pm: sound system (contacting Robb G)

Therefore be it also resolved, East Bay DSA will budget $75 for masks, water, snacks, and hand sanitizer. AJ A will purchase these items and be reimbursed afterwards. Any unused supplies will be stored at the East Bay DSA office and used for future actions.

Therefore be it also resolved, East Bay DSA will connect interested members (including by posting an RSVP form on the chapter event) with EBDSA members Katie F. and AJ A. and Albany YDSA members Dahlia W. and Theo S as point people for East Bay DSA and Albany YDSA members to gather for the event, and coordinate with chapter leadership as needed.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 8 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.105] Resolution to Endorse Journey4Justice Mobilization on Re-Opening Public Schools

Submitted by Hillary C.

On June 17, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, EBDSA has passed a resolution to fight against racist austerity in schools, fight budget cuts, and stop school closures,

Whereas, the district has not come up with a plan for re-opening schools in Fall 2020, and distance learning has been shown to be inequitable and has negative effects on the mental health of parents and children,

Whereas, the transition to distance learning has caused the district to invest in technology and infrastructure which may be a basis for moving schools towards long term online learning beyond COVID,

Whereas, the push to re-open schools would force the district to implement smaller class size and keep more schools open,

Whereas, Journey 4 Justice, Oakland Public Education Network (OPEN) and the Oakland Education Association (OEA) are partnering to rally for re-opening schools in the fall as part of a national effort to re-open schools on June 24, and have asked the DSA to help with planning and providing support for the event,

Whereas, Journey 4 Justice and OPEN are asking EBDSA to submit demands and a vision for how schools should reopen.

Therefore be it resolved, EBDSA will endorse the June 24 event to demand safe and equitable re-opening of schools,

Therefore be it further resolved, EBDSA will work with J4J, OPEN, OEA, and any other partner groups in planning and filling roles and needs for the event which include: logistics, safety/marshalls, social media support, and sound/technology support

Therefore be it further resolved, EBDSA will submit demands to the event if appropriate.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 8 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.106] Resolution to Endorse Black Organizing Project Actions

Submitted by Lawrence L.

On June 17, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas, EBDSA has passed a resolution to fight against racist austerity in schools, fight budget cuts, and stop school closures,

Whereas, OEA and SEIU 1021 has voiced their public support and endorsement of Black Organizing Project’s Ten Days of Action.

Whereas, BOP’s demands for police free schools in Oakland and their vision for community led safety in schools is currently a real achievable goal due to pressure on OUSD,

Whereas, the Black Organizing Project has is specifically asking for EBDSA’s support for events on June 17th, 20th, 22nd, and 23rd,

Therefore be it resolved that EBDSA will endorse a Black Organizing Project’s Ten Days of Action.

Therefore be it resolved that EBDSA will help with turnout on June 17th’s Black and Brown Solidarity March, help with phone banking on June 20th, fulfill roles needed for June 22nd’s Educators for Black Sanctuary Rally, and support June 23rd’s Police Free School March through planning and filling roles.

Therefore be it resolved that EBDSA will also help support the Ten Days of Action through ancillary means such as boosting on social media and postering.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 11 in favor and none opposed.

[SC.2020.107] Resolution for Data Access for Defund OPD

Submitted by Allie L.

On June 23, Abigail G-G called an email vote for the following resolution.

Whereas Kara MB, Neha and Ruwi S are co-chairs on the Defund OPD campaign,

Whereas organizing people of color is a top priority for the chapter,

Whereas the Defund OPD has significant interest for new members who have the potential to be organized for the long term,

Therefore be it resolved that Kara MB, Neha C and Ruwi S have access to Nationbuilder’s event and RSVP landings for the purpose of organizing members for the Defund OPD campaign and following up after events particularly focusing on people of color, through the duration of the campaign.

The resolution PASSED by a vote of 10 in favor and none opposed.