Democratic socialists believe that our economy should be built democratically, by and for working people — not by billionaires for profit.
About the Chapter
The Rio Grande Valley Democratic Socialists of America (DSA RGV) is a local chapter of the nation’s largest socialist organization. Based primarily in McAllen, Texas, our grassroots group focuses on progressive labor organizing, mutual aid, and socialist political education throughout South Texas.
Everything we do is member-led, member-funded, and open to anyone who wants to build a Valley that works for working people. We regularly host community meetings — often in McAllen — to share updates, plan campaigns, and hold political education lectures. You can find our organizing platforms on the DSA Rio Grande Valley Action Network, and if you’re a student, we operate a collegiate branch: the UTRGV Young Democratic Socialists of America.
We fight for a Rio Grande Valley where housing, healthcare, and a dignified living are guaranteed — and we believe the people who live and work here should be the ones deciding the Valley’s future. Our work centers on three pillars: labor organizing, mutual aid, and political education.
1982The Democratic Socialists of America is founded, growing into the largest socialist organization in the United States.
20XXValley organizers form an organizing committee and begin meeting in McAllen. (Year and details to be filled in by the chapter.)
20XXDSA RGV is chartered as an official local chapter, organizing across four counties in South Texas. (Year and details to be filled in by the chapter.)
Counties We Serve
One chapter, four counties. Wherever you are in the Valley, you’re covered — and if you can help us organize deeper in your county, we want to hear from you.
Hidalgo
McAllen · Edinburg · Mission · Pharr
Home base — most meetings held here
Cameron
Brownsville · Harlingen · San Benito
Willacy
Raymondville · Lyford
Starr
Rio Grande City · Roma
Committees
Committees are where the work happens. Each one meets regularly and welcomes new members.
Political EducationReading groups, night school, and workshops that build our shared analysis.
Mutual AidMeeting our neighbors' immediate needs while organizing for lasting change.
LaborSupporting workers organizing on the job across the Valley.
CommunicationsSocial media, design, and this website — telling the chapter's story.
ElectoralBacking candidates and ballot measures that fight for working people.
Membership & OnboardingWelcoming new members and making sure no one falls through the cracks.
Do I have to be a member to come to events?Nope — most of our events are open to everyone. Come to a 101 or a social, meet folks, and see if it's for you.
How much are dues?Dues are sliding-scale through national DSA — most folks pay a few dollars a month. No one is turned away for inability to pay.
How do I switch to a monthly or Solidarity Dues rate?Enter the email associated with your membership in the national dues form with your new dues amount, and your current dues will be canceled and updated.
I've never done anything political before. Is that okay?More than okay — it's the norm. Most members joined without any organizing experience. RGV-DSA 101 exists exactly for this.
Can I participate without being publicly visible?Yes. There are plenty of ways to contribute behind the scenes, and we take members' privacy and safety seriously.
How much time does membership take?As much or as little as you have. Some members show up to one event a month; others help lead committees.