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WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A COMMUNIST

Slava the Ukrainian Socialist

Oct 16, 2024

The idea of communism has long been misunderstood, clouded by stereotypes, misconceptions, and a great deal of propaganda. To many, it conjures images of authoritarian regimes, forced conformity, gray, boring buildings, tasteless food, and unhappy people. Why would anyone want to bring it to reality in the United States of America? What does it really mean to be a communist?


With the launch of the American Communist Party earlier this year, many people are curious to learn more. They won’t have to wait long, as the party got straight to work from the outset and has already achieved notable successes.


Much like Amazon’s satirical series Comrade Detective, which playfully depicts Cold War-era Romania, American communists are now translating socialist ideals into everyday action. The show follows two detectives, Gregor Anghel and Iosif Baciu, fighting crime and defending their communist state from Western capitalist influences.



Through exaggerated scenes and a Cold War backdrop, Comrade Detective offers a parody of communism. However, beneath the satire lies a deeper exploration of what communism truly means: a commitment to the people, the working class, and the community.


Beyond Propaganda: Communism in Action


For communists, beliefs are not merely theoretical - they must be proven through tangible actions that improve the lives of others. Whether it’s fighting systemic injustice, promoting equality, or fostering community cooperation, the central tenet is collective responsibility.


This means directly addressing the needs of the most vulnerable in society, such as the homeless, the hungry, and those affected by social and economic inequality or environmental disasters.


In response to the Federal government’s glaring neglect of its citizens during Hurricane Helene, our comrades from the North Carolina chapter stepped up, delivering thousands of dollars worth of essential supplies to communities in need.



Local organizations have shown their appreciation by presenting the North Carolina chapter of the American Communist Party with the "Touched by an Angel Award."


Comrades from the Georgia chapter used donations from the ACP Hurricane Helene fund to collaborate with a local church in Dublin, which was providing aid to those affected by the hurricane. The church publicly thanked the Communist Party in a Facebook post for their contribution.



One of the most basic but powerful ways to practice communism in real life is by feeding and helping the homeless. Unlike capitalist systems, which often prioritize profit over people, communism advocates for the redistribution of wealth and resources so that no one goes hungry or lacks shelter. Providing food and assistance to those who are struggling isn’t just an act of charity - it’s an embodiment of the communist belief in equality, where everyone deserves access to basic human rights.


Last weekend, on October 13th, the American Communist Party took action and distributed over 500 winter coats, sleeping bags, and tents to the homeless in Chicago. They also prepared 300 hot meals and served them in Humboldt Park. This was just one of the many actions ACP members have been taking across the country for months.



The Communist Commitment to the Public Good


Another vital aspect of communism is the belief in maintaining public spaces for the benefit of all. This involves cleaning up the streets and organizing communal efforts to beautify neighborhoods. Public space belongs to everyone, and it is our responsibility to ensure its cleanliness, safety, and accessibility.


After distributing coats and feeding those in need last weekend, ACP members cleaned Humboldt Park in Chicago to make it more enjoyable for all residents.



This collective responsibility contrasts sharply with capitalist systems, where privatization often leads to the neglect of public areas. In Comrade Detective, the characters take pride in their city, protecting it from capitalist influences they view as corrupting forces.


American communists similarly take direct responsibility for improving their neighborhoods. It’s not enough to criticize inequality or capitalism; one must also offer solutions and work alongside others to create a better society.


To be a communist is to actively work toward a more equitable society, whether by feeding the homeless, cleaning public spaces, or organizing for workers' rights. It’s about putting ideals into practice and proving oneself through action, not just rhetoric.



In today’s world, the need for such action is greater than ever. The growing disparities between the rich and the poor, and the systemic injustices faced by marginalized communities, all demand a collective, communist-inspired response.


True communism is not about empty slogans - it’s about rolling up your sleeves and doing the work necessary to build a society where everyone can thrive. And the American Communist Party is leading by example.

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