Resolution to Establish an Annual RI DSA Leadership Academy

Whereas the RI DSA elects a new Executive Committee on an annual basis;

Whereas successful transition of leadership roles are crucial for maintaining organizational stability and continued growth;

Whereas Executive Committee members possess knowledge of socialist organizing, as well as the RI DSA political context, technical procedures, and organizational structure that may not be readily available to other members;

Whereas theory and education are essential to socialist revolution;

Whereas lack of unified and disciplined revolutionary leadership has historically blunted socialist movements;

Be it resolved that RI DSA will host an annual Leadership Academy, which will serve as a structured political education and skills development program with the purpose of helping general members to:

  1. Establish a strong understanding of foundational concepts in revolutionary socialist theory and practice, including but not limited to class struggle, class consciousness, and the need for a revolutionary party.

  2. Gain practical skills required to carry out essential administrative and organizational functions of the chapter, such as facilitating meetings, planning and executing campaigns, establishing and maintaining working groups or committees, and effectively recruiting and onboarding new members into the organization.

  3. Develop and articulate the chapter’s political platform, strategic goals, and current campaigns, both internally and to the broader public.

Be it further resolved that the Leadership Academy shall commence each year in the month of February, and will be facilitated by current members of the RI DSA Executive Committee or other experienced chapter leaders, who shall be responsible for organizing weekly sessions. Leadership Academy sessions will continue on a weekly basis until new Executive Committee elections are held.

Be it further resolved that participation in the Leadership Academy shall be open to all RI DSA members in good standing, and the syllabus shall be publicly available. The syllabus shall be reviewed on an annual basis in the month prior to the start of the Academy, with this review being open to all members in good standing. While participation shall not be mandatory, it will be highly encouraged for any member considering candidacy for a position on the Executive Committee.