Democratic Socialist Dialogue: Race, class and gender

A record 56 people showed up to engage in a dialogue about the intersections of race, class, gender, sexuality, and disability oppression under capitalism. Emory and U.Ga. women’s studies Professor Patricia Del Rey, Racial Justice Center Co-director Xochitl Bervera, MADSA Recording Secretary Barbara Joye and facilitator Lorraine Fontana presented perspectives on the history of the connections between these issues and the implications for progressive social activism. Many of those attending shared their experiences and concerns, ending with an illuminating personal testimony on disability issues by Ninah Davis. MADSA Chair Milt Tambor summed up intersectionality as solidarity, and we ended by singing “Solidarity Forever.” Many new friends attended, including members of Georgia Rise Up, Solutions not Punishments, Grandmothers for Peace, Atlanta Women for Equality and Georgia for Bernie, and students from Emory U. We hope to see them all again. Photo by Reid Jenkins: Brandon Payton-Carrillo led the gathering in the opening song: “Union Maid.”