Eugene V. Debs, standing up against corruption and greed, once said, “While there is a lower class, I am in it. While there is a criminal element, I am of it. While there is a soul in prison, I am not free.”

Supporting American socialist causes and third parties, even when they rarely win elections, is a commitment I’m proud of.

I’m proud to be a socialist because I believe in fighting for a fair and just society where everyone has a chance to thrive. It’s not about immediate victories but about standing up for what’s right, even in the face of daunting odds.

The legacy that goes back to leaders like Eugene V. Debs, who, despite never winning a presidential election, after running 5 times, including while he was in prison, profoundly influenced American politics and labor rights.

Debs’ dedication to the working class and his belief in the power of collective action continue to inspire me today.

Unions have played an essential role in shaping the lives of American workers, and as a member of a teachers’ union, I see firsthand the importance of these efforts. Unions have fought for better wages, safer working conditions, and the rights of workers to have a voice in their workplaces.

This is not just history; it’s a living, breathing movement that continues to affect the lives of millions, including my own.

Being part of a teacher’s union isn’t just about my job security or benefits; it’s about being part of a broader struggle for dignity and respect for all workers.

The socialist movement in America has always been about more than just winning elections.

It’s about challenging the inequalities that exist in our society and pushing for systemic change. Even when socialist candidates don’t win, their campaigns often bring attention to critical issues that the major parties would rather ignore.

By supporting these candidates, I’m helping to keep these important conversations alive. It’s a reminder that real change often starts on the fringes before it becomes mainstream.

Plus, I believe in the power of persistence. The challenges we face today are not so different from those faced by activists in the past.

They laid the groundwork for many of the rights we enjoy today, and I believe that efforts now will pave the way for future generations.

Change doesn’t happen overnight, and I’m willing to keep fighting, even when the path ahead is difficult.

It’s about staying true to my values and continuing to work toward a society that reflects those principles. Even if we don’t win every battle, every step forward is a victory in its own right.