Citizens and immigrants of South Carolina,
On the evening of February 3, 2025, the Columbia Chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America posted a flyer on its Instagram page. This flyer promoted a community-based informational session on educating everyone (citizens and non-citizens) about how to respond to ICE agents during a stop. Additionally, it included “organize effective mass resistance” to the rise of mass deportations.
Unfortunately, the state’s Attorney General has decided to side with this administration’s imperial and fascist agenda. He has attempted to publicly intimidate us on Twitter, twice. Before issuing an official statement, he posted a copy of our flyer and a fear-mongering commentary, painting us as violent endangerments to communities.
Our event is simply an educational and community-building session in a public library.
Columbia DSA absolutely condemns any form of physical, political, and rhetorical violence. This is evidenced by our efforts to feed, clothe, and bond with our unhoused neighbors of Columbia. Organizing mass resistance simply means communicating to those in power that the people do not approve of actions made by their elected representatives. This fundamental right was valued by the Founding Fathers and centuries of patriots; it is the most American ideal of freedom.
The replies to AG Wilson’s Tweet show that the people of South Carolina know that rights education is not illegal, and that lawlessness is purveyed by those who prioritize profits over people. We will not be intimidated by baseless threats and defaming Columbia DSA’s peaceful efforts to see a world founded in love.
We look forward to a civilized, mutually-beneficial dialogue with AG Wilson to discuss how we can both work together to protect all South Carolinians.
Yallidarity,
Columbia DSA
