We advocate fair trade not free trade. We are internationalist because true national security is born from stronger multinational institutions guaranteeing democracy and justice, not from fighting mercenary wars to defend feudal monarchs and multinational corporations. We are Democratic Socialists because we need new ways of working and living. The U.S. cooperative movement has its roots both in the socialist movement and in the agrarian populist movement of the Nineteenth Century. We believe democracy isn't just for the government at election time but needs to be expanded into how we live our lives and earn our living.
Racism is ingrained in our institutions and consciousness.
Overcoming racism requires not only multicultural sensitivity but also changes in the distribution of power and wealth. We are Democratic Socialists because we must be free and equal in our homes, bedrooms and doctors' offices. Our radical democratic vision includes full equality for women and sexual minorities. We seek a world where women, gays, lesbians and bisexuals have equality at home and at work, and are free from violence. We want women to have real reproductive choices which include easy access to child care and a health system that provides free contraception, abortion, prenatal care and pediatric care.