Isabelle Olson

Isabelle Olson

Isabelle Olson is a member of the Portland Democratic Socialists of America.

Organize for Power Slate

The Organize for Power Slate from a Google Doc shared on Twitter:

My name is Isabelle and I use she/her pronouns. I joined Portland DSA June 2021 and I am a member of the Organize for Power Caucus. I currently work as a medical scribe for a pediatric ophthalmologist and I am in the process of applying for medical school. I have lived in Portland my whole life. Primarily, I have been active in the Medicare for All Campaign and the Labor Working Group. As part of the M4A Campaign, I regularly attend and organize with a Portland coalition fighting for single payer healthcare and health justice. Member organizations include Jobs with Justice and HCAO Action. With this organization I was a key organizer for the Medicare for All 2021 Rally to celebrate Medicare’s birthday, and we are preparing for the 2022 rally currently. Additionally, I am a Regional Organizer for the M4A Campaign for the states of Oregon and Idaho. I was an active presence in the Portland City Workers’ Strike Solidarity rallies and marches. On February 6th, I was an emcee for a national DSA labor event: DSA Strike Solidarity: How and Why?

As an external organizer, I would pursue coalition efforts which would raise Portland DSA’s profile within the Portland metropolitan area. I would begin and run a calendar that includes events from other coalitions and groups in order for Portland DSA’s members to become more involved in the city. To become a fundamental voice of socialism in the city, we need to collaborate with existing movements to establish a visible DSA presence. Not only would this increase our visibility, but it would also encourage new membership. I would also like Portland DSA to have more relationships with unions and labor organizations. Working with labor unions proves we stand for the working class. We need to provide a socialist organization that they can turn to. We need to ask ourselves, what can we do to get involved and show our support? External organizers should seek to coordinate with other DSA chapters. I would have regular discussions with working group co-chairs and coordinate to support important projects.

An important job of an external organizer is being able to explain the importance of democratic socialism to an interested group. My job in the medical field has made me adept at giving explanations in an accessible and friendly way. I will be able to reach into the greater Portland metro area and help this city appreciate all DSA does.