WADE RATHKE is the founder of ACORN, Chief Organizer at ACORN International, and Author of "Nuts & Bolts", "Citizen Wealth", "Global Grassroots", and "The Battle for the 9th Ward".
New Orleans There’s no question. A dues-based organizing model for community organizations and informal worker associations is a tough road to follow, even if all of the other variables are great. Members pay for the organization; therefore, it’s theirs in ownership, participation, and governance. This was the path that ACORN has travelled for …
Pearl River When I think of animal rights two things come to mind. One is the argument made by philosopher and advocate Paul Singer, whose books I have read, that make the case that they are sentient beings at many levels and deserving of attention and care for that reason. The other is PETA, …
Houston I’ve joked for years with comrades and friends about how much of our lives and careers, we’ve practiced law without a license. In organizing unions and community groups, we’re always looking for handles in rules and regulations, little opportunities that might be bent with pressure to favor our constituency, even if unintended. Many …