Course Descriptions

This seminar will examine the history of organizing and different models of community organizing, including direct actions, mass mobilization, social action, and grass roots empowerment and advocacy, as well as newer community-building approaches developed within the current occupy movement. The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to philosophical underpinnings, theoretical approaches, and practical applications of the most significant aspects of community organizing. We will pay special attention to issues of gender, class, race and ethnicity, and sexual orientation in organizing work. Topics include: social movement theory; revolutionary and reformist action; building a campaign; legal work; relationship with the media; strikes, pickets and  labor unions; popular education; taking nonviolent direct action; street theater; and state responses to popular mobilizations. Priority to ANTH students