Editing Community Organizing (section)

== Story Example: How to Organize Grant Kintyre Against Meatpackers ==

The story of organizing the Grant Kintyre neighborhood against the Sunnybrook Meat Packers is a prime example of mass-based community organizing in action. This case study illustrates the step-by-step process of identifying an issue, mobilizing the community, and achieving tangible results while building a strong local organization.

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=== Identifying the Issue ===

# '''Initial Contact''': The process began with door-to-door canvassing by the organizer, Don Keating. He introduced himself to residents and asked about their concerns and interests in improving the neighborhood.
#* '''Example Script''': “Hello, my name is Don Keating. I’m a community worker calling on Grant Street and talking to people about their interest in problems and improvements. What about you?”
# '''Discovering the Problem''': Through these conversations, Keating quickly identified a common issue: the stench and unsanitary conditions caused by the Sunnybrook Meat Packers. Residents complained about the bloody water runoff from the plant, which attracted flies, dogs, and posed health risks.

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=== Mobilizing the Community ===

# '''Engaging Key Residents''': Keating went back to the residents who showed the most interest and reported that there was enough concern to justify holding a meeting.
#* '''Example''': “I then went back to the people who seemed most interested and reported to them that there seemed to be enough feeling about several problems to justify holding a meeting.”
# '''Setting Up the Meeting''': He asked these key residents for a suitable date and place for the meeting, ensuring their involvement in the decision-making process.
#* '''Example''': “I asked those whom I had identified as the key people for a date and place that would be good for them.”
# '''Announcing the Meeting''': A leaflet was prepared and hand-delivered to announce the meeting, providing an opportunity for a second personal contact with residents.
#* '''Example Leaflet''': “Neighbours on Grant and Kintyre are getting together on Monday, March 2nd, at 7:30 p.m. in St. Ann’s Separate School to discuss problems and improvements in our neighbourhood.”

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=== The First Meeting ===

# '''Small Turnout''': Despite the efforts, only ten people attended the first meeting. Some were disappointed with the turnout, but Keating used this as an opportunity to build momentum.
#* '''Example''': “Ten people came to the meeting. Some of the group were disappointed with the small turnout.”
# '''Discussing the Issues''': The group discussed various problems, with the meat-packing plant issue standing out due to its visibility and impact on many residents.
#* '''Example''': “The more people talked about the meat-packing plant, the angrier they became.”
# '''Setting Goals''': Keating explained the twin goals of mass-based community organizing: winning results and building the organization. He emphasized the importance of choosing a winnable issue that would affect many people and be visible.
#* '''Example''': “The basics of mass-based community organizing — winning and building — were explained to the meeting.”

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=== Planning the Action ===

# '''Evaluating Methods''': The group evaluated different methods to address the meat-packing plant issue, such as phone calls, letters, petitions, and direct confrontation.
#* '''Example''': “I listed possible methods on the board: a phone call, a letter, a petition, a delegation, and inviting the owner to the group’s next meeting.”
# '''Choosing Direct Confrontation''': The group decided that inviting the owner to their next meeting would be the most effective method for both winning results and building the organization.
#* '''Example''': “The best method for both winning results and building organization was to invite the owner to the next meeting of the group.”

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=== Taking Action ===

# '''Invitation Letter''': A polite invitation letter was sent to the owner of the meat-packing plant, requesting his presence at the next meeting to discuss the issues.
#* '''Example''': “Letters of invitation should be ‘Kiwanis style’: super polite.”
# '''Follow-Up''': The group continued to engage with residents, ensuring a good turnout for the meeting with the owner.

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=== The Confrontation ===

# '''Meeting with the Owner''': At the next meeting, the owner of the meat-packing plant attended and was confronted by the residents about the unsanitary conditions and their impact on the neighborhood.
#* '''Example''': “When a group identifies a person whom they recognize as the cause of their problems, invites him to their meeting or goes to his home or place of work, complains and demands a solution — that’s confrontation.”
# '''Negotiating a Solution''': The pressure from the organized group led to a negotiation, resulting in the owner agreeing to address the issues raised by the residents.
#* '''Example''': “Within a matter of five minutes, this squeeze play resulted in the reluctant landlord’s agreement to engage the fumigator with the guarantee immediately.”

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=== Building the Organization ===

# '''Celebrating the Win''': The successful confrontation and resolution of the meat-packing plant issue provided a tangible win for the community, boosting morale and demonstrating the power of collective action.
#* '''Example''': “With this modest action, roaches helped the organizing process get moving in Riverdale.”
# '''Expanding the Effort''': The group continued to organize around other issues, drawing in more residents and building a stronger, more cohesive organization.
#* '''Example''': “This fledgling organization would continue the process of organizing more and more neighbourhood groups and drawing in more and more local agencies and institutions in actions on problems large and small.”

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=== Lessons Learned ===

# '''Start Small''': Begin with small, winnable issues to build momentum and demonstrate the effectiveness of the organization.
# '''Engage Personally''': Personal contact and involvement are crucial for mobilizing the community.
# '''Direct Action''': Direct confrontation with those in power can be an effective method for achieving results and building the organization.
# '''Celebrate Wins''': Celebrate and build on each victory to maintain morale and momentum.
# '''Expand Gradually''': Gradually expand the scope of organizing efforts to include more issues and draw in more participants.

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=== Story Example: The Story of GetUp ===

GetUp is a prime example of new power in action. Founded in 2005 by Jeremy Heimans and David Madden, GetUp aimed to bring participation back into democracy in Australia. Here’s a recount of their journey and success:

# '''Founding and Early Days''': Jeremy and David, inspired by their experiences in the United States, launched GetUp with the goal of channeling the passion of Australians into sustained political action. They started with a TV ad declaring that Australians were “starting a movement.”
# '''Innovative Tools''': GetUp introduced an online tool that made it easy for Australians to email their representatives. This tool was a novelty at the time and significantly lowered the barriers to political participation.
# '''Rapid Growth''': The response was extraordinary. Within days, tens of thousands of Australians used the tool to write to their representatives. The Howard government’s backlash against GetUp only increased its credibility and attracted more members and donations.
# '''Impact''': By the 2007 federal election, GetUp had grown so large that it played a significant role in the election outcome. The movement continued to influence key elections, win landmark rulings, and pass important legislation.
# '''Sustained Success''': Over the years, GetUp has raised tens of millions of dollars in small donations and has been described as “probably [Australia’s] most important civil society actor.” Today, it is the largest political organization in Australia.

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=== Replicating the Strategy for Building Power ===

To replicate GetUp’s strategy for building power, follow these steps:

# '''Find Your Connected Connectors''': Identify and cultivate a group of people who share a common worldview and are influential within their networks. These connected connectors will help spread your message and mobilize others.
# '''Build a New Power Brand''': Create a brand that resonates with everyday people and encourages them to take action. The name and messaging should invoke a sense of empowerment and participation.
# '''Lower the Barrier, Flatten the Path''': Make it as easy as possible for people to join and participate. Remove obstacles to action and streamline user experiences. For example, GetUp’s online tool made it easy for people to contact their representatives.
# '''Move People Up the Participation Scale''': Start with low-barrier asks, such as signing a petition, and gradually move people towards higher-barrier behaviors, like volunteering or creating content. This helps build deeper engagement and commitment.
# '''Harness the Three Storms''': Take advantage of moments of drama and urgency to galvanize your movement. These moments can be created, chased, or embraced. For example, GetUp leveraged the government’s backlash to increase its credibility and attract more members.

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=== Underlying Theory and Quotes ===

The underlying theory of new power is that it is participatory, open, and peer-driven. It thrives on the energy and engagement of the crowd. Here are some quotes from the book that illustrate this theory:

* “New power operates like a current. It is made by many. It is open, participatory, and peer-driven.”
* “The future will be a battle over mobilization. The everyday people, leaders, and organizations who flourish will be those best able to channel the participatory energy of those around them.”
* “The single most important factor behind the early success of GetUp was how easy it was for people to participate.”

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=== Clientelism / Practical Politics / Relational Politics ===

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==== Description ====

'''Clientelism''':
* '''Definition''': Clientelism involves the distribution of resources or services by political office holders or candidates in exchange for political support, primarily in the form of votes.
* '''Mechanism''': It operates through a network of patrons (politicians), brokers (intermediaries), and clients (voters). Patrons provide resources, brokers mediate the distribution, and clients offer political support in return.
* '''Context''': Common in areas with high poverty and limited access to public services, where political brokers become essential for meeting basic needs.

'''Practical Politics''':
* '''Definition''': Practical politics focuses on tangible, immediate benefits rather than ideological or policy-driven approaches.
* '''Mechanism''': Politicians engage in direct problem-solving for constituents, addressing their immediate needs and concerns.
* '''Context''': Effective in environments where voters prioritize personal and local issues over broader political ideologies.

'''Relational Politics''':
* '''Definition''': Relational politics emphasizes building personal relationships and trust between politicians and constituents.
* '''Mechanism''': Politicians and their teams engage in face-to-face interactions, fostering a sense of loyalty and mutual support.
* '''Context''': Particularly effective in close-knit communities where personal connections are valued.

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==== Personalised Problem Solving as a Political Strategy ====

'''Theory''':
* '''Human Needs Theory''': People are motivated by their basic needs (e.g., food, shelter, security). Politicians who address these needs can secure loyalty and support.
* '''Social Exchange Theory''': Relationships are built on reciprocal exchanges. Providing tangible benefits creates a sense of obligation and loyalty among recipients.
* '''Network Theory''': Strong, face-to-face relationships create robust networks that can be mobilized for political support.

'''Justification''':
* '''Trust and Loyalty''': Personalised problem-solving builds trust and loyalty, essential for sustained political support.
* '''Visibility and Accessibility''': Politicians who are visible and accessible to their constituents are more likely to be seen as effective and caring.
* '''Immediate Impact''': Addressing immediate needs creates a direct and noticeable impact, reinforcing the politician’s value to the community.

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=== Step-by-Step Instructions to Set Up and Run an Efficient Nation-Wide Political Machine ===

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==== 1. Establish a Clear Organizational Structure ====

'''Theory''': Organizational theory emphasizes the importance of a clear hierarchy and defined roles for efficiency and accountability. '''Justification''': A well-defined structure ensures that responsibilities are clear and that the organization can scale effectively.

'''Steps''':
* '''National Committee''': Establish a central committee responsible for overall strategy and coordination.
* '''Regional Committees''': Create regional committees to manage operations in different geographic areas.
* '''Local Committees''': Set up local committees (e.g., city, district) to handle grassroots activities.
* '''Precinct Captains''': Appoint precinct captains to manage the smallest units, ensuring direct contact with voters.

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==== 2. Recruit and Train Key Personnel ====

'''Theory''': Human capital theory highlights the importance of skilled and motivated personnel for organizational success. '''Justification''': Well-trained personnel are essential for effective operations and voter engagement.

'''Steps''':
* '''Identify Leaders''': Recruit individuals with strong leadership skills and a commitment to the organization’s goals.
* '''Training Programs''': Implement training programs to develop skills in organizing, communication, and problem-solving.
* '''Mentorship''': Pair new recruits with experienced mentors to provide guidance and support.

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==== 3. Develop a Network of Brokers and Clients ====

'''Theory''': Network theory emphasizes the importance of building strong, interconnected relationships. '''Justification''': A network of brokers and clients ensures that resources are distributed effectively and that political support is mobilized.

'''Steps''':
* '''Identify Brokers''': Select individuals who have strong connections within their communities.
* '''Build Relationships''': Encourage brokers to build personal relationships with potential clients.
* '''Resource Distribution''': Ensure that brokers have access to resources (e.g., food, healthcare) to distribute to clients.

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==== 4. Implement Personalized Problem-Solving ====

'''Theory''': Social exchange theory suggests that reciprocal relationships build loyalty and support. '''Justification''': Addressing individual needs creates a sense of obligation and loyalty among recipients.

'''Steps''':
* '''Needs Assessment''': Conduct assessments to identify the needs of constituents.
* '''Direct Assistance''': Provide direct assistance to address these needs (e.g., job placement, legal help).
* '''Follow-Up''': Maintain regular contact to ensure that needs are met and to build ongoing relationships.

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==== 5. Foster Community Engagement ====

'''Theory''': Community engagement theory emphasizes the importance of involving community members in decision-making processes. '''Justification''': Engaged communities are more likely to support and participate in political activities.

'''Steps''':
* '''Town Hall Meetings''': Organize regular town hall meetings to discuss issues and gather feedback.
* '''Community Projects''': Initiate community projects (e.g., clean-ups, health camps) to build goodwill and visibility.
* '''Volunteer Programs''': Encourage community members to volunteer and participate in campaign activities.

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==== 6. Utilize Data and Analytics ====

'''Theory''': Data-driven decision-making improves efficiency and effectiveness. '''Justification''': Analyzing data helps identify trends, measure performance, and optimize strategies.

'''Steps''':
* '''Data Collection''': Implement systems to collect data on voter preferences, needs, and engagement.
* '''Analytics Tools''': Use analytics tools to analyze data and generate insights.
* '''Strategy Adjustment''': Adjust strategies based on data insights to improve effectiveness.

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==== 7. Maintain Flexibility and Adaptability ====

'''Theory''': Adaptive management theory emphasizes the importance of flexibility in response to changing conditions. '''Justification''': A flexible organization can respond quickly to new challenges and opportunities.

'''Steps''':
* '''Regular Reviews''': Conduct regular reviews of strategies and operations.
* '''Feedback Mechanisms''': Implement feedback mechanisms to gather input from all levels of the organization.
* '''Continuous Improvement''': Encourage a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

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==== 8. Ensure Financial Sustainability ====

'''Theory''': Financial management theory highlights the importance of sustainable funding for long-term success. '''Justification''': Reliable funding ensures that the organization can maintain operations and support its activities.

'''Steps''':
* '''Fundraising Campaigns''': Organize fundraising campaigns to secure donations and support.
* '''Membership Fees''': Implement membership fees for party members to generate steady income.
* '''Grants and Sponsorships''': Seek grants and sponsorships from supportive organizations and individuals.