From the Baltic Way to Serbia’s Otpor to Sudan’s professionals, effective movements ran on three things: parallel institutions, dignified rituals, and visible defections.
Good action items. I especially appreciate the admonition for our side to avoid bestowing cult leader status on political leaders. Democrats online who are alienated by the DC establishment are naturally drawn to young, energetic new faces. However, we need to keep in mind the candidate cannot do it all. Charisma is insufficient to flip Republican votes.
Only smart, tough organizational muscle is going to work. We need to be the platform that supports multiple candidates who are right for their districts.
This article is a real service to us fighting in the resistance. Thank you.
I really think the violence at the Black lives matters movement did a major disservice to that movement. But I also remember seeing that some of that violet was instigated by proud boys.
I do everything I can to share Will's insights. One nuanced comment
I do not want movements to fracture over having a strong leader, like MLK. The civil rights movement had deep roots beyond any single leader, with organizations like the NAACP, SCLC, and grassroots activists driving change for decades.And the movement's success also stemmed from collective action, legal strategies, and widespread participation.
That said. Martin Luther King Jr.'s leadership was vital because he was the pre-eminent advocate of nonviolence. His strategic use of nonviolent protests exposed the violent brutality of authorities, garnering public support and helping secure landmark legislative victories.
MLK wasn't a cult leader because he promoted democratic ideals, encouraged diverse leadership, built coalitions across organizations, and emphasized moral principles over personal devotion. His philosophy of nonviolence and justice transcended personal loyalty. But, he needed to be identified by friend and foe as a leader.
Thanks Will. The problem is partially us--will 'we' support the leader who unifies, which means negotiating some priorities, messaging, messengers, etc. but not compromising core values and positions.
Thanks for the reminder that there is a blueprint. We're larger and more spread out, so it'll be more difficult. But we need people like you and others to help organize. And, indeed, resist forming a cult of a leader.
Thanks for the info and inspiration. Art is also connected to culture. Art might not be the answer, but it can help. Check out what I’m doing at PUBLIC INTEREST ARTS. Would love to talk with you about and hear your thoughts if interested. https://www.instagram.com/publicinterestarts/
Good action items. I especially appreciate the admonition for our side to avoid bestowing cult leader status on political leaders. Democrats online who are alienated by the DC establishment are naturally drawn to young, energetic new faces. However, we need to keep in mind the candidate cannot do it all. Charisma is insufficient to flip Republican votes.
Only smart, tough organizational muscle is going to work. We need to be the platform that supports multiple candidates who are right for their districts.
What a useful exercise! Please keep it up. Spread the word, folks.
Love this practical AND factual approach!
thx will
This article is a real service to us fighting in the resistance. Thank you.
I really think the violence at the Black lives matters movement did a major disservice to that movement. But I also remember seeing that some of that violet was instigated by proud boys.
I do everything I can to share Will's insights. One nuanced comment
I do not want movements to fracture over having a strong leader, like MLK. The civil rights movement had deep roots beyond any single leader, with organizations like the NAACP, SCLC, and grassroots activists driving change for decades.And the movement's success also stemmed from collective action, legal strategies, and widespread participation.
That said. Martin Luther King Jr.'s leadership was vital because he was the pre-eminent advocate of nonviolence. His strategic use of nonviolent protests exposed the violent brutality of authorities, garnering public support and helping secure landmark legislative victories.
MLK wasn't a cult leader because he promoted democratic ideals, encouraged diverse leadership, built coalitions across organizations, and emphasized moral principles over personal devotion. His philosophy of nonviolence and justice transcended personal loyalty. But, he needed to be identified by friend and foe as a leader.
A great note - my warning is against cult like leadership - our problem may be a lack of unifying leaders
Thanks Will. The problem is partially us--will 'we' support the leader who unifies, which means negotiating some priorities, messaging, messengers, etc. but not compromising core values and positions.
Thanks for the reminder that there is a blueprint. We're larger and more spread out, so it'll be more difficult. But we need people like you and others to help organize. And, indeed, resist forming a cult of a leader.
Thanks for the info and inspiration. Art is also connected to culture. Art might not be the answer, but it can help. Check out what I’m doing at PUBLIC INTEREST ARTS. Would love to talk with you about and hear your thoughts if interested. https://www.instagram.com/publicinterestarts/
Thanks I will check it out