I was a member of DSA’s parent organization, DSOC, from 1975 until 1981, served on its National Board and also worked as a staff member in its national office.  I joined DSA after a lapse of many years during the Bernie Sanders campaign in which I served as the representative of the campaign to Democrats Abroad.

I understand that DSA at its national convention yesterday voted by a large majority to endorse the campaign of boycotts, divestments and sanctions (BDS) targeting Israel.  In a video I saw from the convention, this vote resulted in chants from some delegates of “Palestine will be free, from the river to the sea”.  I also saw at least one Palestinian flag being waved in celebration.

I cannot in good conscience be a member of an organization which promotes a boycott of the Jewish state.  I consider the BDS campaign to be antisemitic and racist.  I oppose it as a socialist and as a Jew.  I am appalled that DSA would take such a position.

For that reason, despite more than 40 years supporting DSA and its predecessor, I now wish to resign my membership.