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Democratic Socialists of America votes to expel members who support Israeli self-defense

A recent measure passed by the organization also states that members can be expelled for opposing the movement to boycott Israel.

Democratic Socialists of America
Protesters hold signs from the Democratic Socialists of America during a “March for Palestine” rally in front of the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C., on March 2, 2024. Credit: Elvert Barnes via Wikimedia Commons.

The Democratic Socialists of America adopted a resolution on Wednesday that states that any member who claims “Israel has a right to defend itself” will be subject to expulsion from the organization, according to The Algemeiner.

The new measure, “for a fighting anti-Zionist DSA,” states that any members who oppose the movement to boycott Israel, make statements that “Israel has a right to defend itself” or equate anti-Zionism with antisemitism, will be subject to expulsion.

The same is true for anyone in the organization affiliated with the Israeli government or groups that lobby on behalf of the Jewish state.

The measure also “unequivocally” affirms the DSA’s commitment to the Palestinian “right to return” and claims Jerusalem is the capital of “Palestine.”

The DSA has some 78,000 members, including “squad” member Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Democratic New York City mayoral primary winner Zohran Mamdani.

Judy Schwank told JNS that “if we can get it through both bodies and get it to the governor’s desk, he will sign it.”
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