Democratic Socialist Organizing Committee
Democratic Socialist Organizing Committee
The Democratic Socialist Organizing Committee (DSOC) was an influential political organization in the United States, founded in 1973 by Michael Harrington. DSOC aimed to promote democratic socialism and advocated for the organization of the political left within the Democratic Party.
Origins and Goals
The DSOC emerged as a reaction to the perceived inadequacies of existing socialist organizations in the U.S. at the time. Michael Harrington, a prominent political activist and author, envisioned a new coalition of the democratic left that would transcend traditional socialist efforts focused solely on organizing labor unions. The organization sought to build political power through a strategy of "realignment," uniting progressive forces within the Democratic Party around a democratic socialist platform.
Activities and Political Influence
DSOC members were actively involved in political campaigns, often running for office as Democrats. The organization also encouraged the activism of its members within various other political and labor organizations. DSOC played a significant role in shaping the political discourse of the 1970s and early 1980s, especially as it related to labor rights, economic justice, and social equality.
Merger and Legacy
In 1982, the Democratic Socialist Organizing Committee ceased to exist as an independent entity when it merged with the New American Movement (NAM) to form the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The merger was a strategic move supported by DSOC's left-wing leaders, including Jim Chapin, aiming to assimilate former participants of the 1960s New Left, who were searching for a political home. The DSA, which resulted from this merger, continues to be a prominent voice for democratic socialism in the United States today.