Where to Debate Foreign Policy and Still Adhere to the DA Rules
By Karen Lee, DAGR Vice Chair
Ed. Note: Karen Lee first heard about the DA caveat on ‘foreign policy stances’ in about 2006 or so, and has been trying to explain it to frustrated fellow Dems ever since.
Democrats Abroad do not discuss foreign policy in public spaces … and that sometimes makes us look like brain-dead dweebs, heads buried in sand, oblivious to the real world. Even dyed-in-wool members wax annoyed when DA appears to be asleep at the wheel.
Today, Feb 28, we stand vindicated! The DA statement sent round to members and posted for the world in DA’s new Substack account is short, spot on, and within the rules. It addresses Trump’s erratic policies, without litigating their specific foreign policy merits. The statement is also eloquently read in a short audio clip included with publication.
A word on those rules that give us such grief
Some years back, it was noted that well-meaning – and often prescient – statements devised by folks in one host country could unwittingly put members in some other country at risk. It might be official; not all governments are tolerant of visitors critiquing their activities. It could also invite unofficial rage from local residents.
Reactions, likewise, could range from snubbing by neighbors, to loss of job or residence visa, to jail time or physical jeopardy. Dweeby as we may look to others, DA tries to protect its own.
At the same time, US policy, current Trump policy in particular, often contributes to civil discord and environmental degradation around the world as well as in the US proper. As individuals, we are free to speak out. (You takes yer chances!). Dual citizens may even be able to vote and participate in host country politics.
Living with the rules
When representing Democrats, DA more specifically, we’re bound by FEC law and Party rules. Recognized by the DNC as a ‘state party,’ DA formulates a platform, stating our views on a range of issues and highlighting those of unique concern to members outside the US. To develop that platform, and to encourage informed voting, we need to struggle with the issues.
We CAN talk about all the knotty problems in our members-only spaces. Social media is inadequate for deep discussion. Likewise, articles, like this one, are posted in public spaces and offer little room for response.
But, notably, there are four members-only groups on Signal to participate in:
- DA Global Chat – Party business and actions, members around the world
- DA EMEA Chat – Party business and actions, for Europe-Middle East-Africa region.
- The Open Space – DA-wide global news, especially foreign policy
- DAGR Members Chat – No limit on issues, praise and complaints
The 3rd and 4th here are wide open for respectful discussion. Send a note to the DAGR Secretary if you’d like to join any of these fully-encrypted Signal groups.
There are, of course, the Happy Hours and Saturday Coffee in-person events run by the DAGR chapters. Speak freely. The only restriction there is ‘watch out what you say to reporters!’
Stay Tuned for Kitchen Table Talks
And, coming soon, you’ll be hearing more about ‘kitchen table talks’ … small groups, geared at issue discussions that will send recommendations to next year’s Platform Committee. The KTTs can be online or live, and not necessarily in a kitchen. To make the most of this crucial midterm year and develop good citizenship habits for the years ahead, get on board!
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