Steering Committee Statement on Abuse Incidents

Due to the sensitive nature of this incident, We, the Steering Committee, felt it important to release a statement to our membership, for transparency, and accountability. We would like to alert those reading this document, and those linked therein, that they contain mentions of assault and abuse. We would also like to remind our membership that our Harassment Grievance Officers (HGOs) are available, should you need them; you may email them at sandiegohgo@gmail.com.

In light of the recent actions by former-DSA member Andrew Irwin, as outlined in the document put forth by those affected, we, the Steering Committee of the San Diego Chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, stand in solidarity with the survivors, and those affected by this abuse. We have removed Andrew Irwin from our chapter communications, Andrew is no longer welcome in our chapter.

As socialist feminists, we strive to break the chains of oppression and abuse by which patriarchy and capitalism have bound us. In order to do so, we must take action to protect our communities. According to national records, Andrew has not been a member in good standing as of July 27, 2018. We, the steering committee, will be formally petitioning the national organization to expel Andrew, and bar them from ever returning.

We also believe deeply in the importance of creating safer spaces collectively within our community, and have reached out to the San Diego chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL). The DSA-SD Steering Committee will be working with PSL to create processing spaces and workshops on consent. Together, we will also work to greater serve our organizer/activist community, and to move forward collectively and heal. We extend the invitation to other organizations, to join us, and make our spaces safer for all.

Again, we wish to offer solidarity and support to the survivors of this horrendous behavior. We are with you, through and through.

In Solidarity,

Steering Committee,

Democratic Socialists of America, San Diego Chapter