Who We Are
The Peace & Freedom Party, established in 1967 during the height of the Vietnam War and civil rights movements, is California’s only socialist qualified political party. This designation allows us to participate fully in state and national elections in the state of California, allowing for an avenue into the political arenas traditionally dominated by the mainstream parties. We believe the power of grassroots activism can be accompanied with strategic political engagement to challenge the status quo and champion the cause of working class and marginalized communities. From federal and state offices to local governance like city councils, county supervisors, school boards, and resource agencies, our goal is to elect revolutionary socialists to every level of government who will champion the cause of the exploited and oppressed in order to build political power for the people.
From its inception, the Peace & Freedom Party emerged as a radical alternative to the two-party duopoly that dominates American politics by advocating for socialism, feminism, and Black liberation in response to the widespread dissatisfaction with the existing political order and their handling of social justice issues. During this period, PFP distinguished itself by promoting a platform that combined the urgent demands of the civil rights movement with a broader socialist agenda. In 1968, the party gained national attention by nominating Black Panther co-founder Eldridge Cleaver for the presidential election, highlighting its commitment to racial equality and socialist politics. The voter registration efforts of the Black Panthers were instrumental in PFP attaining the status of a qualified political party in California, a testament to the significance of the Black liberation movement and their enduring legacy, leaving us with a party that continues to fight against US imperialism, racial oppression, and capitalism.
Today, the Peace & Freedom Party remains committed to those principles, with our focus centered on contemporary issues such as the ongoing genocide of Gaza, the US carceral state, the rise of American neofascism, environmental crisis, economic inequality, protecting queer and trans communities, and constructing socialism.
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What We Do
Our activities in Los Angeles include:
Community Engagement:
We are working to foster a diverse and inclusive grassroots movement where the organized masses are leading actors in their own struggles.
Educational Initiatives:
We promote political education that discusses socialist principles and current issues, aiming to equip individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools to advocate for societal transformation.
Political Campaigning:
We support and run in strategic campaigns for local, state, and federal offices, promoting socialist candidates and policies that align with our values.