2019 Convention Resolution #11: Law Enforcement DSA Exclusion (Amended)

Whereas, law enforcement agencies operate to promote the interests of capitalist institutions and to suppress organized dissent against their control of American society; and

Whereas, oppressed groups with whom DSA seeks to organize such as people of color, the homeless and sex workers have immediate reasons to be afraid of the police and uncomfortable in their presence.

Therefore be it resolved, employment as a Law Enforcement Officer is in opposition to the principles of the organization as outlined in the DSA Constitution Article II. “Law Enforcement Officer” shall be defined as “an individual who is sworn, badged, and armable by the government to enforce the law, or a prison guard (whether employed by the government or a private company).” Persons employed as Law Enforcement Officers are therefore excluded from membership in DSA.