River Valley Democratic Socialists reach 500 members in Western Massachusetts

River Valley Democratic Socialists of America has grown to 500 members across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties, capitalizing on national momentum as DSA-backed candidates won congressional primaries nationwide.

The chapter, founded in 2017 to build working-class power in the region, has expanded locally to include branches in Greenfield and Springfield, with a main office in Holyoke. The growth reflects a broader trend: nationally, DSA members Clare Valdez, Chris Rabb, and Darializa Avila Chevalier won U.S. congressional primaries, and the organization drew attention following DSA member Zohran Mamdani's victory in the 2025 New York City mayoral race.

River Valley DSA co-chair Sasha Morsmith said the organization represents a challenge to established political forces. "Donald Trump, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, and centrist Democrats all agree that DSA is the biggest threat to their corporate, warmongering agendas," Morsmith said. "We're taking the fight to the rich from towns and cities to the halls of power. When we organize together, working people can overcome any obstacle."

Locally, chapter members have begun winning elections. Jill Brevik was elected to the Amherst Town Council, and Tom Hendrickson was re-elected to the Agawam City Council. A contingent of members comes from the Northampton area.

Co-chair Adrien R. described joining the organization as finding community alongside political purpose. "I originally joined River Valley DSA in search of community and friendship, and I'm grateful to have found that," Adrien R. said. "Over 500 other members and I have found a political home in which we all truly believe that a better future is possible, and I'm proud to be part of this chapter at such a monumental milestone."

The chapter focuses on organizing for strong unions, housing justice, and what members describe as democratic control of communities.