Section 3 will explore potential theories of change for how we win a Green New Deal. Let's remind ourselves: this is not a simple, incrementalist political objective we are after As we saw in Section 1, winning a true Green New Deal is nothing less than a complete restructuring of power & wealth in our society. The fossil fuel industry and the powerful actors who benefit from the status quo will oppose us forcefully every step of the way.

This class examines a few perspectives on failures and successes in activism, social movement building and political change.

Homework:

Read:

Kendi, Ibram X. - How to Be an Antiracist - Ch. 16 "Failure".pdf

Questions to consider while reading (take notes to help class discussion!)

• What do you think of Kendi's definition activist as "One who has a record of power or policy change"?
• What does Kendi have to say about "suasion ideology"
  • What role is suasion ideology playing in the Climate Justice Movement?
  • Is there a difference between suason ideology and strategic narrative building?
• What does Kendi see as a requirement for policy change?
• How does Kendi define demonstrations vs. protests? What are the value of each?
• How does Kendi define mobilizing vs. organizing? What are the value of each?

Read:

What makes nonviolent movements explode?

Questions to consider while reading (take notes to help class discussion!)

• What is the definition of "Explode"?
  • Is that the same as "Success" or achieving political aims?
  • Should our goal be to "Explode?"
• How do we demonstrate sacrifice while in lockdown?
• How do we disrupt while in lockdown?

Watch:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEpAA_sW3y4