Multiple individuals linked to the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) have signed a public statement endorsing Chinese socialism, according to documents reviewed by news outlets. The statement, issued by Friends of Socialist China, declares support for the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and its political system, framing socialism as essential for global survival.
The pledge asserts that ‘the global advance to socialism is indispensable if humanity is to survive and flourish,’ and characterizes the ‘record of socialist countries’ as overwhelmingly positive. It further states that ‘the continued survival of Chinese socialism is a crucial matter not only for the Chinese people but for all humanity.’
Among the signatories listed are Mirah Wood, identified as Co-Chair of the Middle East & Africa Subcommittee of the DSA International Committee, and John McGrath, described as a member of the DSA International Committee (anti-war) in the United Kingdom. Both names appear in archived versions of the statement dating back to 2022, indicating the pledge has been active for at least two years.
The statement rejects what it calls ‘propaganda’ portraying socialism as authoritarian, arguing that such views stem from ‘capitalist cultural hegemony.’ It resolves to ‘support, defend and build understanding of Chinese socialism.’
The document has drawn attention due to the involvement of individuals with formal roles in the DSA, a prominent U.S. democratic socialist organization. While the statement does not represent an official position of the DSA as a whole, the inclusion of members in leadership positions within its International Committee has raised questions about internal ideological alignment and public perception of the organization’s stance on foreign governments.
The Friends of Socialist China group describes itself as aiming to ‘promote understanding of Chinese socialism’ and to ‘support the PRC.’ The statement’s language emphasizes solidarity with socialist systems globally, positioning China’s model as a positive force for addressing climate change, poverty, and structural oppression.
No official response from the DSA leadership regarding the signatories or the statement’s content was included in the reporting.