In 2009, world hunger reached its highest level since records began in 1970, with over a billion hungry worldwide. Hundreds of thousands of gallons of toxic crude oil are gushing into the Gulf of Mexico every day. Congress is throwing another $33 billion for war in Afghanistan, more than enough to prevent all teacher layoffs this year, estimated between 100,000-300,000 nationwide.

An estimated 45,000 people die in the U.S. every year from curable disease because they lack access to proper health care. Meanwhile, the recent health care legislation, more than anything else, further entrenches the insidious for-profit model. Everywhere—in the U.S., Europe, and around the globe—government policy is to make working people pay for the crisis through massive cuts to social spending and austerity measures. Oh, and by the way, the top 25 hedge-fund managers made an average salary of $1 billion each in 2009 alone!

There is something fundamentally wrong with this whole picture. An alternative is badly needed. Our organization, Socialist Alternative, has consistently advocated for a different kind of society based on putting the needs of the majority before the mega-profits of a tiny elite. We have actively campaigned for real change. In the last year, we have:

• Participated in town hall meetings during the health care debates, openly calling for a single-payer model.


• Been active in campaigns of students and teachers against cuts and layoffs in public education, including the March 4 National Day of Action to defend education.


• Actively supported a 4-week strike of nurses and health care professionals at Temple University Hospital, which succeeded in stopping the worst attacks on their working conditions and threats to patients care.


• Played a key role in organizing a public sector workers’ alliance in Chicago.


• Actively participated in efforts to build rank-and-file opposition in a number of unions including the UAW, AFSCME, and the AFT.


• Organized protests against the escalation of war in Afghanistan last December.


• Participated in and organized rallies for LGBT rights in the fall.


• Organized and participated in May 1st rallies across the country for immigrants’ rights and jobs for all.


• Produced and distributed Justice, a socialist newspaper for the working-class and youth, which receives no corporate funding or advertising. Last year, we began to raise funds to increase the frequency of Justice, and we still aim to do that.


• Held public educational meetings on different issues providing a socialist analysis and program. We have brought international speakers to talk about other workers’ struggles and the fight for socialism around the globe.


• Sought to constructively assist in the rebuilding of a fighting workers’ movement, including the construction of a mass workers’ party, while also popularizing socialist ideas and building a Marxist organization

The present situation demands we not only continue our efforts but step them up, and we need your help. Every struggle, from the small battles to fundamentally transforming society, requires the time, energy, sacrifice, and determination of ordinary working people. So we are asking you for your support by making a donation today. We know times are tough, but any amount, no matter how big or small, is greatly appreciated and goes a long way.

Socialist Alternative has absolutely no corporate sponsorship and relies entirely on the backing of its membership and supporters. So please consider a donation today and help us reach our goal of raising $10,000 this summer to take the struggle forward. With a donation of $50 or more, you will receive a 1-year subscription to our newspaper Justice, and with a $100 donation you will receive a 2-year subscription. If you would like more information about Socialist Alternative or are interested in becoming an active member, please see the About Us and Join sections on this site.

You can donate online by clicking the 'donate' button below or send checks payable to 'Socialist Alternative' to PO Box 150457, Brooklyn, NY 11215