Join Maine DSA for the first part of a two-part political education series on US imperialism. This session focuses on the history and current reality of US sanctions - what they are, who they target, and what they actually do to working people around the world.

Presented by Matt C. and Beckham O.

We'll cover the broad landscape of US sanctions programs, take a deep look at Cuba and the decades-long blockade, and examine Iran from the 1953 CIA-backed coup to today's maximum pressure campaign. Each section includes time for group discussion.

This is Part 1 of 2. Part 2 will focus on short- and long-term solutions.

All are welcome. No prior knowledge needed.

Suggested pre-reading:

• Defend Cuba From US Efforts to Crush It (Jacobin): https://jacobin.com/2026/03/us-cuba-socialism-trump-tariffs
• US Sanctions on Iran Are Devastating and Ineffective (Jacobin): https://jacobin.com/2024/04/us-sanctions-iran-imperialism-water-medicine