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  • Resolution: Temporary Indoor Mask Requirement During Flu Surge

    Resolution: Temporary Indoor Mask Requirement During Flu Surge

    Motion: Amend Something Previously Adopted

    AUTHOR: ANTHONY RC

    Procedural note (for the chair and members): This item is in order as a motion to Amend Something Previously Adopted (the prior “masks optional” policy adopted by membership vote).
    This is not a renewal of the prior debate; it is a properly noticed motion to amend a previously adopted policy. Adoption requires a majority vote.

    Notice record: Distributed to membership on December 31, 2025 via Discord and E-Mail.

    Whereas, on October 9, 2025, the membership repealed the chapter’s mask mandate, making masks optional at Savannah DSA events;

    Whereas, Robert’s Rules of Order recognizes the right of an assembly to revise prior decisions through the motion to Amend Something Previously Adopted;

    Whereas, CDC reports influenza activity is elevated and increasing nationwide, with at least 7.5 million illnesses, 81,000 hospitalizations, and 3,100 deaths so far this season; CDC also reports 19,053 laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations in the most recent reporting week and eight pediatric deaths this season (including five newly reported), underscoring impacts on children and families. Source: CDC

    Whereas, in Georgia, flu activity has been classified as high/very high, and public reporting based on Georgia DPH data shows 501 flu hospitalizations and 12 flu-related deaths reported since early October; Georgia clinicians are also reporting a spike in pediatric cases and severity.

    Whereas, Savannah DSA has a responsibility to practice solidarity by minimizing avoidable illness risks at chapter functions, especially for members and community participants with heightened vulnerability or caregiving responsibilities;

    Therefore, be it resolved:

    1. ​Amendment to prior policy. Savannah DSA hereby amends the previously adopted “masks optional” policy by adding the following temporary exception:​
    ​
    “For indoor Savannah DSA events, masks are required from adoption of this resolution through April 30, 2026. This requirement automatically expires after April 30, 2026 unless renewed by the membership.”​

    2. ​Scope. This requirement applies to indoor chapter events, meetings, and trainings where Savannah DSA is the host or co-host.​

    3. ​Implementation. Event facilitators/meeting chairs will ensure compliance with this requirement during the effective period, and event announcements during this period shall include:​ ​“Masks required indoors through April 30 due to current flu conditions.”​

    4.​ Materials and support. When feasible, the chapter will make masks available at the door.​

    5. Reassessment and renewal. The Steering Committee will place a brief check-in item on the first General Meeting agenda after April 30 (or earlier if conditions materially change). Any extension beyond April 30, 2026 must be adopted by membership vote. This requirement expires on April 30, 2026 even if a General Meeting does not occur.

  • Kendra Clark’s letter to the chapter

    To My Savannah DSA Comrades:

    As announced at our last meeting, I will be stepping down from my role as co-chair in January to focus on my campaign for the Georgia House of Representatives. Serving as your co-chair has been a profound honor. Thank you for the trust you placed in me and for the opportunity to help lead our chapter during a period of such dynamic growth.

    I am constantly inspired by our membership, by your unwavering engagement and the good you create in our community. At a time when so many are struggling just to survive, you show up, do the hard work, and actively build a stronger, more resilient Savannah.

    I write this on New Year’s Eve, a natural moment for reflection on both the year behind us and the path ahead. This past year, our chapter achieved remarkable things.

    • We officially incorporated as an organization.
    • We held our first fundraiser.
    • We amplified the struggles of residents at Yamacraw Village.
    • We helped expand the local ICE rapid response network and educated neighbors on how to support our migrant communities.
    • We celebrated a hard-fought victory with the workers of Foxy Loxy, proving once again that when we unionize, we win.
    • We continued our weekly mutual aid distributions, serving countless in our community.
    • And on the national stage, we watched DSA enter mainstream conversation with Zohran Mamdani’s historic win in New York and our own Atlanta comrade, Kelsey Bond who was elected to the Atlanta City Council.

    People are hungry for change, and we are helping to lead the way. As we move into the new year, our April convention will shape our chapter’s priorities. On January 11, the newly formed Affordable Housing Coalition will have its first meeting. Together, we will continue to grow, to deepen our impact, and to build toward a more free, democratic, and humane society, one where people have a real voice in the decisions that shape their lives.

    While I am stepping down from this role, I am not stepping away. I will remain alongside you in our shared work, and if the chapter chooses to endorse my campaign, I look forward to standing with many of you on the trail. I have full confidence in our chapter’s future, knowing that every comrade stepping up to serve as co-chair will provide excellent leadership.

    It has been an honor and a privilege. Happy New Year and I look forward to continuing our work in 2026!

    In Solidarity,

    Kendra Clark

  • a-01: Resolution to include data protection

    3.5.4 Confidentiality and Data Protection

    Savannah DSA operates in an environment where membership in the organization and participation in its activities can pose real risks to members’ safety, employment, housing, immigration status, and personal lives. For that reason, any information that links a real person to Savannah DSA or its political work is treated as highly sensitive.

    This section defines how chapter data is classified, where it may be stored, who may access it, and how it must be handled.

    A. Data Classification

    For operational security, all chapter information is classified into four tiers:

    1. Tier 1 – Public Organizational Data
      Materials intended for public distribution.
      Examples: public statements, public-facing bylaws, public charters, press releases, public flyers.
    2. Tier 2 – Internal Operational Data
      Internal working materials that do not identify specific people.
      Examples: draft proposals, agendas without names, generic planning notes, non-sensitive vendor information.
    3. Tier 3 – Personally Identifiable Information (PII)
      Any data that can identify a person.
      Examples: legal name, home/mailing address, phone number, email address, date of birth, emergency contacts, government ID numbers, banking or payment information.
    4. Tier 4 – Political Identity and Sensitive Membership Data
      Any information that links a person to Savannah DSA or to political activity.
      Examples: membership lists, attendance/sign-in sheets, organizer or volunteer rosters, donation or dues records tied to names, grievance or disciplinary records, HGO/safety information, internal communications that name individuals in connection with organizing or political work.

    Tier 3 and Tier 4 data are treated identically for security purposes. When in doubt, treat information as Tier 4.

    B. Core Confidentiality Rules

    • Tier 3–4 data may not be shared outside Savannah DSA or used for any non-DSA purpose.
    • Access to Tier 3–4 data is restricted to members with an explicit role that requires it and who have completed required security training.
    • Members who wish to be referred to only by an alias in online or public spaces must have that preference respected in all official communications and public-facing channels.
    • No member may compile, export, or distribute lists that link names to DSA membership or activity except as explicitly authorized by this section.
    • Violations of this policy undermine member safety and organizational trust and may result in disciplinary action.

    C. Authorized Platforms (Public vs. Sensitive)

    To reduce accidental leaks, public and sensitive data must live on different platforms.

    1. Public / Low-Risk (Tier 1)
      • Stored on platforms designated for public materials only (e.g., chapter website, a public-only Google Drive folder, printed materials).
      • No Tier 3–4 data may be stored on these platforms.
    2. Internal / Moderate Risk (Tier 2)
      • May be stored on internal Google Drive or similar tools, as long as no Tier 3–4 data is included.
      • If any document begins to contain names, contact information, or political identity data, it is automatically reclassified to Tier 3–4 and must be moved to an approved encrypted platform.
    3. Sensitive / High-Risk (Tier 3–4)
      • Must be stored only on encrypted platforms approved by the chapter, such as CryptPad and Proton Drive used for private, internal storage.
      • There is no “public” area within the chapter’s Proton storage. Proton is reserved for sensitive and internal material only.
      • Proton Mail may be used to transmit Tier 3–4 data only when necessary, using encrypted messages or secure links.

    Discord, standard email, SMS, and social media inboxes must never be used to store or transmit Tier 3–4 data.

    Discord may be used for general political discussion and organizing, but:

    • no internal membership lists, sign-in sheets, or contact databases may be posted or summarized there, and
    • officers must not confirm or disclose any member’s status, contact information, or involvement without that member’s explicit consent.

    Members who choose to use their real names on Discord do so at their own risk; the chapter will not further expose or aggregate that information.

    D. Sharing Data: Access Permissions, Not Attachments

    To protect members and allow rapid response to incidents, Savannah DSA relies on access permissions instead of file attachments or downloads.

    • Tier 3–4 data should be shared by granting and revoking access within CryptPad or Proton Drive, not by sending files directly.
    • Attachments containing Tier 3–4 data should be avoided whenever possible.
    • If an account or device is compromised (for example, a stolen phone or laptop), the Steering Committee can immediately revoke that member’s access to sensitive folders, preventing further unauthorized viewing.
    • Members who are granted access to Tier 3–4 data are responsible for notifying the Steering Committee promptly if a device is lost, stolen, or compromised so access can be revoked.

    E. Personal Devices vs. Chapter-Managed Devices

    Savannah DSA does not treat personal devices as secure storage for Tier 3–4 data.

    1. Personal Devices

    Members may use personal devices (laptops, phones, tablets) to view Tier 3–4 data through encrypted platforms, subject to the following:

    • The device must use full-disk encryption (e.g., FileVault, BitLocker, LUKS or equivalent).
    • The device must be protected by a strong passphrase (e.g., multiple random words) and set to lock automatically after no more than five (5) minutes of inactivity, requiring the full passphrase to unlock.
    • The operating system and browser must be kept reasonably up to date with security patches.
    • All chapter-related accounts used on the device (Proton, CryptPad, etc.) must have multi-factor authentication (MFA/2FA) enabled.

    Under no circumstances may Tier 3–4 data be permanently stored on personal devices. This includes:

    • no downloading of membership lists or sign-in sheets;
    • no exporting of spreadsheets or PDFs with names or contact info;
    • no screenshots or photos of sensitive documents;
    • no syncing of chapter folders containing Tier 3–4 data to iCloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, or similar services;
    • no local notes apps containing member lists or sensitive records.

    If a personal device inadvertently stores Tier 3–4 data (for example, via a downloaded attachment), the member must delete it immediately and notify the appropriate officer so practices can be corrected.

    2. Chapter-Managed Devices

    To support necessary work with sensitive data, Savannah DSA may authorize one or more chapter-managed devices (for example, a dedicated encrypted laptop in a modest price range appropriate for the chapter’s budget).

    A chapter-managed device:

    • is owned or fully controlled by the chapter,
    • is used only for chapter work,
    • has full-disk encryption and a strong passphrase,
    • has MFA enabled for all accounts used on it, including the device login, and
    • is physically secured when not in use (locked storage, controlled access).

    Only chapter-managed devices may store downloaded or exported Tier 3–4 data, and then only when necessary for operational reasons (such as offline backup, financial reporting, or legally required retention). Personal devices may never be used for this purpose.

    F. Membership Outreach and Limited Sharing

    The Steering Committee may enlist general members to help contact prospective members or event attendees, under strict limits:

    • Volunteers may receive only the minimum information necessary to complete a specific outreach task, typically a name and phone number for a single prospective contact.
    • This information must be transmitted via encrypted direct message (e.g., Signal) and may not be re-shared or compiled into new lists by the volunteer.

    Full membership lists, large contact databases, and Tier 3–4 data remain restricted to designated roles.

    G. Retention, Deletion, and Coalition Work

    Savannah DSA will not retain sensitive data longer than necessary to fulfill its purpose or to comply with law.

    • As a 501(c)(4), the chapter is subject to legal requirements governing certain financial and organizational records. In any conflict between this policy and applicable law, legal requirements take precedence.
    • Permanent records must also follow the retention standards in Section 3.6.8 (Documentation and Record Retention).

    Event Sign-In Sheets and Mailing Lists

    • Event sign-in sheets and contact lists are classified as Tier 4 data.
    • They must be stored only on approved encrypted platforms (CryptPad, Proton Drive, etc.).
    • Data that is not required by law to be kept, including most sign-in sheets, shall be destroyed no later than thirty (30) days after the final date of use.
      • “Final date of use” means the last time the list is actively used for follow-up, outreach, or reporting.
    • Sharing of such lists, while they are active, may only occur via secure access permissions in approved encrypted platforms, not by sending raw files.

    Coalitions and New Organizations

    • When Savannah DSA uses a sign-in sheet or contact list to initiate a new coalition or organization under its temporary leadership, the list may be retained for the duration of DSA’s stewardship of that project.
    • When leadership and data responsibility are formally transferred to the new organization, Savannah DSA will delete its copy of the list within thirty (30) days, unless legal requirements dictate otherwise.
    • Any transfer must honor the consent given at the time of collection and use encrypted sharing methods.

    H. Training, Breach Response, and Accountability

    Training

    • Any member granted access to Tier 3–4 data must complete basic digital security training approved by the Steering Committee.
    • Training will cover secure device configuration, use of encrypted tools, recognizing phishing and social engineering, safe communication practices, and breach reporting.

    Breach Response

    A “data breach” includes, but is not limited to:

    • loss or theft of a device used to access chapter systems;
    • unauthorized access to chapter accounts;
    • accidental sharing of membership lists or PII with unintended recipients;
    • exporting or posting Tier 3–4 data to unauthorized platforms.

    If a breach or suspected breach occurs:

    • The member discovering it must notify the Steering Committee (or its designated security point person) and the Secretary as soon as possible.
    • The Steering Committee will coordinate immediate steps to contain the incident (revoking access, resetting passwords, updating permissions) and assess the scope.
    • The incident will be documented, and affected members or contacts will be notified when appropriate.
    • The Steering Committee may require remedial training or take disciplinary action, depending on severity and intent.

    Therefore, be it resolved:

    • The Steering Committee shall, within a reasonable period after adoption of this handbook, configure the necessary encrypted platforms, update access permissions, and provide security training to members who require access to Tier 3–4 data, in order to bring chapter practice into compliance with Section 3.5.4; and that the Steering Committee may enlist members with relevant expertise to assist in this work, and
    • The chapter authorizes the Steering Committee to investigate and propose the purchase of one or more chapter-managed, encrypted devices suitable for handling Tier 3–4 data, including a budget-friendly laptop or similar device, subject to membership approval of any required expenditure.

  • The Migrant Rights Working Group is looking for people to join the movement.

    The Migrant Rights Working Group is looking for people to join the movement.

    Next Meeting: December 17, 2025

    Where: Virtual (Zoom)

    For more information, email migrantrights@savgadsa.org

    Savannah DSA’s Migrant Rights Working Group is building a network of neighbors who can show up fast when our immigrant community is targeted and help make Savannah a real sanctuary city in practice, not just in name. From rapid response when raids or detentions happen to court support, accompaniment, and political education, we need more comrades plugged in and ready to act. If you’re interested in joining the rapid response team or helping us grow a “sanctuary mindset” across our chapter and city, reach out to the Migrant Rights Working Group to get involved.

    Rapid Response Training: Learn how to mobilize quickly when raids or detentions occur in our neighborhoods.

    Sanctuary Strategy: Brainstorm local campaigns to force Savannah officials to practice non-cooperation with ICE.

    Political Education: Deepen our understanding of immigration policy and how to build community defense.

    Build the Network: Grow our list of neighbors ready to respond to state violence.

  • Housing Justice Working Group needs your help!

    Get involved with the Housing Justice Working Group

    When: Meetings are as needed, typically weekly

    Where: Organizing takes places on the ground as we fight for communities such as Yamacraw Village

    Savannah DSA’s Housing Justice Working Group is organizing with renters, public housing residents, and unhoused neighbors to fight displacement, landlord abuse, and the demolition of deeply affordable homes. If you want to help defend Yamacraw Village and other working-class communities from being pushed out, we’d love to have you involved.

    Interested in plugging in? Email the Housing Justice Working Group at housingjustice@savgadsa.org and a comrade will follow up with ways to get involved.

  • Resolution for the Formation of a Unified Affordable Housing Coalition in Savannah

    Resolution for the Formation of a Unified Affordable Housing Coalition in Savannah

    Voting Date: December 7, 2025

    Where: Virtual (Zoom)

    For more info or to submit an amendment, email info@savgadsa.org

    Whereas, Savannah is experiencing an acute shortage of deeply affordable housing, and the Housing Authority of Savannah (HAS) has, over the past two decades, eliminated more deeply-affordable public housing than it has replaced;

    Whereas, of the roughly 1,300 deeply affordable public housing units demolished or redeveloped by HAS in the last 20 years, only ~760 mixed-income units have been built, none of which are deeply affordable public units, resulting in a net loss of hundreds of homes for low-income families;

    Whereas, the dismantling of deeply affordable housing disproportionately harms Black communities, working-class families, seniors, and long-time Savannah residents who face escalating rents, limited voucher acceptance, and displacement from their neighborhoods;

    Whereas, Savannah DSA has already been serving—informally and without mandate—as a coordinating hub among residents, community organizations, and allies, including acting as the primary support structure for the Yamacraw Village Residents’ Council (YVRC), disseminating critical information, elevating resident demands, and successfully bringing HAS and public officials to the negotiating table;

    Whereas, DSA has become recognized locally as a trusted advocate and effective organizer in housing-justice campaigns, and this trust presents a meaningful opportunity to build a broad, durable, citywide coalition dedicated solely to expanding deeply affordable housing and protecting residents from displacement;

    Whereas, during a recent discussion with long-time community leader Elder Ned—widely regarded as a moral center of Savannah’s organizing ecosystem—he emphasized the urgent need to bring organizations together where “their interests intersect” to discover opportunities for collaboration and support each other voluntarily without pressure or top-down direction;

    Whereas, a recurring public forum that brings together residents, tenant groups, neighborhood leaders, socialists, preservationists, researchers, and other community partners would allow shared work to emerge organically, strengthen community ties, reduce duplicative efforts, and help address Savannah’s housing crisis more effectively and democratically;

    Therefore be it resolved that:

    1. Savannah DSA authorizes the creation of an open, recurring public Forum on affordable housing issues, tentatively named the Savannah Affordable Housing Coalition Forum, intended as a voluntary gathering space for organizations, residents, advocates, and unaffiliated community members concerned with deeply affordable housing,

    2. the initial structure described in this resolution shall serve only as a starting framework, with the explicit understanding that Forum participants at the first meeting may revise, modify, expand, or replace this framework by consensus to establish norms that best serve the group,

    3. the Forum shall hold no authority over any participating organization or individual or to delegate any task to such participants, and shall exist solely to facilitate communication, coordination, shared problem-solving, and mutual support on a voluntary basis,

    4. the Forum shall not be a formal voting body, except for initial consensus votes to agree upon the basic structure of the Forum.

    5. the Housing Working Group co-chairs (or designated group member) shall convene and facilitate the first meeting, during which participants will collaboratively:
        (a) define shared expectations and goals for the Forum,
        (b) determine how agenda-setting will function moving forward,
        (c) agree on how facilitation responsibilities will be shared in future meetings, and
        (d) establish any initial norms for participation,

    6. before the first meeting, DSA shall solicit agenda submissions from any organization or individual, and will compile them transparently into a proposed agenda; if submissions exceed available time, they may be grouped, merged, or rotated in a fair and neutral manner to ensure broad representation,

    7. the default agenda-setting model for the first meeting shall be one of open submission, transparent clustering, equitable time allocation, and the rolling forward of any items not addressed, until participants collectively establish a permanent agenda-setting process,

    8. after the first meeting, the Forum shall—through consensus—determine its ongoing structure, including facilitation rotation, agenda procedures, and meeting flow, with no expectation of adopting formal bylaws unless the group later elects to do so,

    9. participation in the Forum shall remain open to organizations, resident groups, unaffiliated individuals, researchers, service providers, and grassroots collectives regardless of political affiliation, provided they share an interest in housing justice and deeply affordable housing,

    10. the Housing Working Group shall provide periodic updates to the chapter on Forum attendance, themes of discussion, emergent collaborations, and opportunities for DSA engagement, independent of DSA’s general membership.

  • Resolution to Adopt a Savannah DSA Handbook

    Resolution to Adopt a Savannah DSA Handbook

    Dater of Voting: January 4, 2025

    Where: Sentient Bean

    Submit amendments to info@savgadsa.org to be added to the GM agenda

    the following are directives or policies within the handbook that are not otherwise stated in the national or savannah bylaws.

    Please review and submit amendments as necessary to the above listed email address.
    1. The binding nature of policies within the handbook. (Foreword)
    2. Amending the handbook can be made by simple majority. (Foreword)
    3. The requirement to review annually with the Savannah DSA Convention (Foreword)
    4. The ability for the Steering Committee (SC) to make editorial changes to the handbook. (Foreword)
    5. Only Members in Good Standing (MIGS) may present motions and deliberate. (1.2.2)
    6. The process by which projects and campaigns are initiated. (2.3)
    7. Long-Term collaborations/partnerships require membership approval. (2.3)
    8. Electoral endorsements require membership approval. (2.3)
    9. Process of emergency decisions by SC. (3.1.2)
    10. The rights of MIGS. (3.1.3)
    11. No officer may act unilaterally. (3.2.1)
    12. Routine powers of SC (3.2.2)
    13. Inter-org relationships (3.2.4)
    14. Reporting & Transparency reqs (3.2.5)
    15. Definitions of Committee and WG (3.3.1)
    16. Accountability and Establishment of Comm/WGs (3.3.2)
    17. Comm’t/WGs meeting frequency (3.3.3)
    18. Comm’t/WGs responsibilities (3.3.4)
    19. Establishment/Dissolition of ad hoc groups (3.3.6)
    20. Record keeping requirements (3.3.7)
    21. Accountability and Review of Comm’t/WGs (3.3.8)
    22. Steering must include all properly submitted and legal motions in the published agenda and ensure members know how to submit motions.(3.4.2)
    23. Code of Conduct (3.5.1)
    24. Requirement of Discord moderators (3.5.2)
    25. Only the Steering Committee or members authorized by the Membership Body may issue official statements or press releases on behalf of the chapter. (3.5.3)
    26. No member may endorse or condemn a candidate, official, organization, or military conflict “as Savannah DSA” without a membership vote. (3.5.3)
    27. Confidentiality and Data handling rules (3.5.4)
    28. Misconduct – enforcement & accountability (3.5.5 & 3.5.6)
    29. FINANCIAL POLICY – (3.6)
    30. Committee/WG Charter requirement and term limits (appendix B)

    Resolution submitted by: Savannah DSA Steering Committee
    Resolution authored by: Anthony Rivera-Colón, Secretary

    Submitted to: Savannah Democratic Socialists of America General Membership Body

    Date: 11/24/2025

    Whereas, Savannah DSA is a democratic, member-led organization in which the General Membership is the highest decision-making body; and

    Whereas, the chapter’s work is strengthened by a clear, accessible handbook that orients members to our structure, decision-making processes, and expectations for comradely conduct; and

    Whereas, the document titled “Savannah DSA Members Handbook” compiles and clarifies chapter practices, rules, policies, and guidance in a manner consistent with the Savannah DSA Bylaws and National DSA governing documents; and

    Whereas, it is in the interest of transparency and accountability for Savannah DSA to recognize this handbook as an official governing publication;

    Therefore, be it resolved that the Savannah DSA General Membership:

    Calls on the Steering Committee to create an ad hoc committee to review the handbook at least annually in conjunction conjunction with the chapter bylaws at the chapter Convention. This committee will bring any recommended updates or corrections to the General Membership for debate and vote.

    Adopts the attached Savannah DSA Members Handbook as an official governing publication of the chapter, subordinate to the DSA Constitution and Bylaws and the Savannah DSA Bylaws.

    Recognizes that the sections of the handbook labeled “Rules and Policies” are standing rules and operational policies of Savannah DSA, binding on officers, committees, working groups, and members unless and until amended by the General Membership.

    Affirms that in any conflict of authority, the order of precedence is:
      a. National DSA Constitution and Bylaws;
      b. Savannah DSA Bylaws;
      c. Savannah DSA Members Handbook;
      d. Any other standing rules or policies.

    Directs the Steering Committee to maintain and publish the current version of the handbook, including non-substantive edits for formatting, grammar, updated contact information, and links, and to make the handbook easily accessible to members, including on the chapter website and in new member materials.

    Establishes that substantive amendments to the handbook must be proposed as resolutions with proper notice and adopted by a majority vote of the General Membership at a General or Special Meeting, and that no amendment may conflict with National DSA governing documents or the Savannah DSA Bylaws.

    Establishes that members of the Steering Committee may make administrative-only edits to the document such as contact information, working groups, etc.

    Directs existing committees and working groups to bring their charters into compliance with Section 3 of the handbook and the Committee and Working Group Charter Template in Appendix B within thirty (30) days of this resolution’s adoption, or as soon thereafter as practical, and to submit revised charters for approval consistent with chapter rules.

  • Resolution to Create a Communications & DesignCommittee

    Resolution to Create a Communications & Design
    Committee (passed)

    Date of Voting: December 7, 2025

    Where: Virtual (Zoom)

    THE RESOLUTION PASSED WITH ONE AMENDMENT ON 12/8/2025 (para 2.3)

    Resolution written by: Anthony Rivera-Colón and Austin Rojas
    Submitted to: Savannah Democratic Socialists of America General Membership Body
    Date: 11/09/2025


    Whereas, Savannah DSA needs clear, consistent, and principled public messaging that
    reflects positions and campaigns adopted by the General Membership (or other bodies
    authorized by the bylaws); and
    Whereas, effective use of social media, websites, blogs, email, press outreach, and other
    communications tools is necessary to educate, recruit, and retain members and to build
    working-class power in Savannah and the surrounding area; and
    Whereas, design and visual storytelling (including graphics, layouts, photography, and
    video) are essential to communicating our politics, building a recognizable chapter
    identity, and supporting chapter campaigns and events, and the importance of this work
    is reflected in national DSA’s own design guides and standards, which we seek to
    implement locally; and
    Whereas, coordinating communications and design work across committees, working
    groups, and campaigns helps prevent mixed messages, burnout, and duplication of
    effort; and
    Whereas, there are many members with creative talents that would be extremely
    beneficial to our socialist movement;


    Therefore, be it resolved:
    Savannah DSA hereby establishes a Communications & Design Committee (“C&D
    Committee”) as a standing committee of the chapter, with the following structure and
    responsibilities.

    Purpose
    1.1 The purpose of the Communications & Design Committee is to plan, coordinate, and
    carry out external communications and design work for Savannah DSA in order to:
    1.1.1 Advance the chapter’s democratically decided campaigns and priorities; and
    1.1.2 Clearly communicate our politics and demands to the broader public; and
    1.1.3 Maintain and develop the chapter’s website and other digital platforms as reliable,
    up-to-date hubs for information, resources, and calls to action; and
    1.1.4 Develop and steward a coherent visual identity for the chapter across print and
    digital media.
    1.2 The Comms & Design Committee may also assist with internal communications and
    design (e.g., graphics, layouts, templates) when requested by other committees,
    working groups, or the General Membership.
    1.3 The Comms & Design Committee shall operate in accordance with National and
    Savannah DSA’s bylaws, policies, and all guidelines adopted by the General Membership
    and Steering Committee.

    Implementation
    2.1 Upon adoption of this resolution, the Steering Committee shall: 6.1.1 Announce the creation of the Communications & Design Committee;
    2.1.2 Solicit members in good standing to join; and
    2.1.3 Schedule an initial organizing meeting where members will adopt internal
    procedures and elect committee officers.
    2.2 Within thirty (30) days of this resolution’s adoption, the Comms & Design
    Committee shall:
    2.2.1 Hold an organizing meeting at which members of the Comms & Design Committee
    elect Co-Chairs, who shall appoint a Secretary from among the committee’s members;
    2.2.2 Inventory existing communications and design assets (social media accounts,
    website, email lists, branding and design materials, templates, and access credentials);
    2.2.3 Develop draft communications, design, and branding guidelines and a basic annual
    communications and design work plan; and
    2.2.4 Present these to the General Membership or Steering Committee for feedback and
    approval.
    2.3 Within 180 days of this resolution’s adoption, the Comms & Design Committee may:
    2.3.1 Pilot a video and/or audio episodic program to platform persons, campaigns, and initiatives as desired by the General Membership.

    Scope of Work
    3.1 The Comms & Design Committee is responsible for the chapter’s external and
    internal communications and design infrastructure, including but not limited to:
    3.1.1 Social media: Managing and posting to official chapter social media accounts,
    developing platform-appropriate content, and moderating comments consistent with
    chapter policies.
    3.1.2 Website and email: Maintaining and updating the chapter website; coordinating
    mass email, newsletters, and event announcements in collaboration with relevant
    committees and officers.
    3.1.3 Messaging, design, and materials: Developing key messages, talking points,
    graphics, layouts, flyers, print pieces, and digital assets for chapter campaigns and
    events, in coordination with relevant committees and working groups.
    3.1.4 Design and visual identity: Creating and maintaining chapter-wide design
    templates and style guides (logos, colors, fonts, layouts), and supporting visual consistency across all chapter materials, including The People’s Report and campaign
    collateral.
    3.1.5 Press and media relations: Maintaining a local media list; drafting and distributing
    press releases and media advisories; fielding press inquiries in coordination with
    Steering Committee Co-Chairs or their designees.
    3.1.6 Internal communications: Supporting clear communication to members about
    meetings, decisions, campaigns, and political education opportunities, in coordination
    with Membership, Political Education, Labor, Electoral, and other committees as
    appropriate.
    3.1.7 Digital security and accessibility: Promoting best practices for password
    management, account access, and digital security; and working toward making chapter
    communications and designs accessible (including alt text, captions, and screen-reader–
    friendly formats) whenever feasible.
    3.1.8 Publications and The People’s Report: Coordinating the regular creation, design,
    editing, and distribution of The People’s Report as an official chapter publication;
    soliciting, accepting, reviewing, and editing written and visual submissions from
    members; and ensuring that published content is consistent with positions and
    campaigns adopted by the General Membership and any editorial policies approved by
    the chapter.
    3.1.9 Protest messaging and art builds: Supporting creative messaging and visual design
    for demonstrations and art builds (e.g., banners, posters, signage, chant sheets,
    projections, and merchandise for chapter use), in collaboration with relevant
    committees and working groups.
    3.1.10 Multilingual communication: Striving, as capacity allows, to provide translations
    of key public-facing materials, announcements, and resources (especially between
    English and Spanish) when feasible and requested, and clearly indicating when
    translations are available and how members and community members can request
    them.
    3.2 The Comms & Design Committee may propose communications and design policies
    (e.g., branding and design guidelines, social media norms, account security practices,
    and translation practices) to the Steering Committee and General Membership for
    adoption.
    3.3 The Comms & Design Committee does not have the authority to make political
    endorsements, take new public positions, or contradict democratically adopted chapter
    positions. Public statements that commit the chapter to a new political stance or
    endorse candidates must follow the procedures in the bylaws and relevant resolutions.

    Membership and Leadership
    4.1 Membership in the Comms & Design Committee is open to all Savannah DSA
    members in good standing who wish to contribute to communications and design work.
    4.2 The Comms & Design Committee shall elect from among its members Co-Chairs,
    responsible for convening meetings, coordinating work, and serving as the primary
    liaisons to the Steering Committee. The Co-Chairs shall appoint a Secretary from among
    the committee’s members, who is responsible for taking minutes, maintaining records,
    maintaining access credentials and documentation, and submitting reports.
    4.3 Committee officers shall be elected at a regularly noticed Comms & Design
    Committee meeting and confirmed according to the procedures for committee
    leadership in the chapter bylaws or standing rules. Committee officers are recallable by
    a majority vote of the Comms & Design Committee membership, subject to appeal
    under chapter grievance or conflict-resolution procedures.
    4.4 The Comms & Design Committee shall strive for leadership that reflects the diversity
    of the working class in Savannah and shall make deliberate efforts to recruit and
    develop members from historically marginalized communities into communications and
    design work and leadership.
    4.5 The Comms & Design Committee may, by majority vote, designate additional
    coordinators or leads from among its members to take responsibility for specific areas
    of work, such as:
    4.5.1 A Web Administrator responsible for day-to-day website updates and technical
    maintenance;
    4.5.2 A Social Media Coordinator responsible for organizing content and scheduling
    across social platforms;
    4.5.3 A Publications Editor (or editorial team) responsible for coordinating The People’s
    Report and other publications, including managing member submissions in line with any
    editorial policies adopted by the chapter; 3.5.4 A Design Lead or Creative Coordinator responsible for visual identity, design
    templates, graphics, layouts, and support for protest art builds.
    4.6 These coordinators are accountable to the Comms & Design Committee as a whole
    and may be replaced or restructured by the committee as needed.

    Accountability and Decision-Making
    5.1 The Comms & Design Committee is accountable to the Savannah DSA General
    Membership and Steering Committee. It is responsible for implementing democratically
    adopted positions and priorities, not setting them unilaterally.
    5.2 Routine posts and materials (event reminders, meeting announcements, live-posting
    during events, sharing campaign materials already approved by the relevant committee,
    updating the website, and routine design work consistent with existing campaigns and
    policies) may be approved through procedures adopted by the Comms & Design
    Committee, as long as they remain consistent with chapter positions and messaging
    guidelines adopted by the General Membership or Steering Committee.
    5.3 Public statements that:
    5.3.1 Announce new chapter-wide initiatives,
    5.3.2 Respond to major political developments in the name of the chapter, or
    5.3.3 Have a reasonable likelihood of being interpreted as a new chapter position
    must be coordinated with and approved by the Steering Committee or the General
    Membership, consistent with chapter bylaws and policies.
    5.4 Rapid response statements on major political developments:
    5.4.1 Electorate and notice: The electorate shall be all members in good standing. The
    24-hour clock starts when the Comms & Design Committee sends notice, with the
    proposed position and draft messaging, to the chapter email list and posts it in official
    channels.
    5.4.2 Thresholds: A valid vote requires quorum per the bylaws (10 percent of members
    in good standing). Adoption requires at least two-thirds approval of votes cast.
    5.4.3 At 24 hours:
    5.4.3.1 If quorum is met and two-thirds approve, the committee may issue the position
    statement. 4.4.3.2 If quorum is met but two-thirds do not approve, no position statement is issued.
    5.4.3.3 If quorum is not met, the committee may issue an informational notice that
    acknowledges the development without taking a position.
    5.4.4 Extended window: The ballot remains open for up to five (5) days from notice. If
    within that period quorum is reached and two-thirds approve, the committee may issue
    the position statement.
    5.4.5 Issuance and recordkeeping: Approved statements are issued by the Co-Chairs (or
    their designee) as the chapter’s spokespersons. The committee records totals and
    turnout and reports to Steering and the next General Membership meeting. Statements
    must be consistent with positions previously adopted by the General Membership and
    the bylaws.
    5.5 The Comms & Design Committee shall provide written or oral reports to each
    General Membership meeting, summarizing recent work, upcoming plans, and any
    proposals requiring membership decision.

    Finances and Resources
    6.1 All funds for communications and design work (e.g., website hosting, printing,
    advertising, software subscriptions, design tools, and production of materials) shall be
    held in and disbursed from Savannah DSA’s regular accounts under the supervision of
    the Chapter Treasurer, in accordance with chapter financial policies and applicable law.
    6.2 The Comms & Design Committee may:
    6.2.1 Submit budget requests to the Treasurer and Steering Committee; and
    6.2.2 Recommend communications- and design-related expenditures to the General
    Membership and Steering Committee, which retain final authority over chapter
    finances.
    6.3 Any fundraising explicitly for communications or design projects shall be conducted
    through normal chapter financial processes, and any funds raised shall remain the
    property of Savannah DSA.

  • Resolution to Establish a 2026 Savannah DSA Convention Planning Subcommittee

    Resolution to Establish a 2026 Savannah DSA Convention Planning Subcommittee

    Date of Voting: December 7, 2025

    Where: Virtual (Zoom)

    Submit amendments to info@savgadsa.org to be added to the GM agenda

    RESOLUTION PASSED WITH 2 AMENDMENTS ON 12/7/2025

    Resolution to Establish a 2026 Savannah DSA Convention
    Planning Subcommittee
    Resolution written by: George A. Robles, Secretary
    Submitted to: Savannah Democratic Socialists of America (Savannah DSA) General
    Membership
    Date: 11-19-2025
    Whereas, Savannah DSA will hold its 2026 Chapter Convention on April 5, 2026, which
    requires advance planning to ensure a democratic, accessible, and orderly process; and
    Whereas, the General Membership is the highest decision-making body of Savannah
    DSA and may delegate specific planning and implementation powers to subordinate
    bodies;
    Therefore, be it resolved that:

    Reporting and Sunset
    5.1 The Subcommittee shall report regularly to the Steering Committee and provide a
    written report to the General Membership at the January, February, and March General
    Membership Meetings prior to the 2026 Convention.
    5.2 The Subcommittee shall complete a thorough report and/or minutes of the
    Convention to the Steering Committee no later than (NLT) seven (7) days after the
    conclusion of the 2026 Convention.
    5.3 The Subcommittee shall automatically dissolve seven (7) days after the conclusion of
    the 2026 Convention.

    Establishment and Authority
    1.1 The General Membership hereby establishes an ad hoc 2026 Convention Planning
    Subcommittee (“the Subcommittee”) to plan and coordinate the 2026 Savannah DSA
    Convention, reporting to the Steering Committee and ultimately to the General
    Membership.

    Formation and Composition
    2.1 The Subcommittee shall be formed in December 2025, but no later than January 15,


    2.2 The Steering Committee shall solicit volunteers from members in good standing
    (MIGS) and appoint an initial membership, and shall designate a Convener responsible
    for calling meetings and ensuring notes are kept.
    2.3 The Convener shall keep a list of active members of the Subcommittee and is
    responsible for ensuring members are MIGS.
    2.4 Membership in the Subcommittee shall remain open to any MIGS who wishes to
    participate.

    Powers and Responsibilities for Convention Planning 3.1 Within the scope of planning the 2026 Convention, the Subcommittee is authorized
    to:
    3.1.1 Receive agenda items from members and chapter bodies, including but not limited
    to resolutions; officer, committee, and working group reports; and budget/funding
    requests.
    3.1.2 Draft the proposed Convention agenda and standing rules for April 5, 2026,
    including a proposed consent agenda.
    3.1.3 Conduct a preliminary review of agenda items for compliance with the chapter
    bylaws and rules, and designate as out of order those items that clearly conflict with
    existing bylaws, providing timely notice and a brief written explanation to submitters.
    3.1.4 Create task-specific Teams to work on specific aspects of Convention planning
    (such as budget, bylaws and handbook review, logistics, and donations), provided that
    all Task Teams report back to and are directed by the Subcommittee.
    3.1.5 Identify and refer appropriate items to the incoming Steering Committee for
    adjudication where interpretation or follow-up is needed, including resolutions and
    other proposals that are in order but cannot reasonably be taken up at the 2026
    Convention (for example, due to time constraints or because they are primarily ongoing
    administrative or implementation matters). Such items shall be deferred to the newly
    elected 2026–2027 Steering Committee for consideration after the Convention, with a
    brief written explanation of the Subcommittee’s recommendation.
    3.1.6 Recognize that all such determinations are subject to the General Membership’s
    ultimate authority at the Convention to amend the agenda, adopt or reject the consent
    agenda, and overrule out-of-order rulings consistent with the bylaws and rules of order.
    3.1.7 Ensure that the proposed Convention agenda is submitted to and approved by the
    General Membership no later than (NLT) March 5, 2026.

    Budget Authority
    4.1 For the purposes of funding the 2026 Convention, the General Membership
    authorizes the Steering Committee to approve a Convention budget up to two hundred
    dollars ($200), upon recommendation from the 2026 Convention Planning
    Subcommittee. 4.2 If the proposed Convention budget exceeds two hundred dollars ($200) in total
    (including items such as venue, food, materials, speakers, and accessibility costs), the
    Steering Committee shall submit that budget to the General Membership for approval.
    4.3 Such a vote shall be conducted via OpaVote (or its successor), with a voting window
    of no less than seventy-two (72) hours, and the budget shall be adopted if approved by
    a simple majority of valid ballots cast, consistent with the chapter’s bylaws and rules.

  • DSA co-chair position opening

    interim co-chair opening

    When: January 4, 2026

    Savannah DSA logo with red circle, Forsyth Fountain, and rose

    Our chapter will be electing an interim co-chair to fill a vacancy in our leadership. Kendra is stepping back from her co-chair role in order to focus on her campaign for GA State Representative, and we’re excited to support her in that fight while keeping our chapter leadership strong and accountable.

    What this role does

    • Political + organizational leadership: Help set chapter priorities, support campaigns, and make sure our work stays rooted in democratic socialist politics in accordance with the will of the Membership Body.
    • Meeting facilitation + coordination: Co-chair General Membership Meetings, work with Steering to build agendas, and keep our internal processes transparent and democratic.
    • Support for committees + working groups: Stay in regular contact with organizers across the chapter, help troubleshoot, and make sure groups have what they need to win.
    • External representation: When needed, represent Savannah DSA in coalitions, media requests, and public events in coordination with the rest of leadership.

    Who we especially encourage to run

    We strongly encourage Black, Brown, queer, trans, disabled, working-class, and otherwise marginalized comrades to consider running, including folks who haven’t held chapter-wide leadership before. If you care about building power for the many and can commit some time each month, you’re eligible to be in the conversation.

    How to nominate

    Members can nominate themselves or another member in good standing before or during the January 4th General Membership Meeting. Whoever is elected as co-chair will be the interim co-chair until the Savannah DSA Convention, April 5, 2026.

    If you’re curious about the role or want to talk it through before deciding, reach out to Steering or email info@savgadsa.org and someone will connect with you.

    Let’s thank Kendra for her leadership and send her into the State House fight with our full solidarity, while making sure our chapter stays strong, democratic, and ready for the struggles ahead.