The Founder & Organizer-in-Chief of Organizing to Win, Mira Weinstein, discusses the important concept of the masses building their power. Electing the proper politicians is not enough.
Mira Weinstein, Founder & Organizer-In-Chief
Mira Weinstein visited Netroots Nation in Chicago recently. We scheduled an interview then that we could not complete, so we completed it remotely. It was well worth the wait.
In a recent interview, Mira Weinstein, the founder and chief organizer of Organizing to Win, engaged in a thought-provoking conversation about the essence of building power through organizing. The conversation was hosted by Egberto Willies on the program “Politics Done Right” and covered a wide range of topics, shedding light on the strategies and principles that underpin effective political activism and community engagement.
Key Takeaways:
- Founding of Organizing to Win: Weinstein’s journey into founding Organizing to Win was shaped by her background in organizing and political campaigns. She described a transformative moment where she realized her passion for bringing people together to build power. The organization’s main goal is to foster unity among diverse communities to create positive change collectively.
- Moving Beyond Elections: Weinstein highlighted the importance of moving beyond electoral politics and recognizing that true change involves more than just electing the right candidates. While elections are crucial, building relationships and creating consensus within communities are essential components of effective organizing.
- Building Relationships: The conversation delved into the significance of building relationships with individuals who might not initially align with one’s political views. By establishing trust and engaging in meaningful conversations, activists can work towards shifting perspectives and inspiring action.
- Narratives and Community Trust: The discussion touched on the power of narratives and how they resonate with various communities. It was noted that while certain narratives may not seem rational to outsiders, they hold deep cultural and emotional significance for those within the community. Understanding these narratives is vital for effective communication and engagement.
- Talking to Underrepresented Communities: Weinstein emphasized the need to engage with communities that have been historically marginalized or overlooked by mainstream politics. Building relationships and addressing their concerns can lead to greater political participation and a broader coalition for change.
- Demystifying Power: Weinstein encouraged open discussions about power, reframing it as a neutral force that can be harnessed collectively to create positive outcomes. Power is about collective action and collaboration, rather than domination.
- Addressing Elitism: The conversation addressed the challenges of elitism within political circles, where certain voices are given more weight than others. Grassroots organizations like Organizing to Win aim to bridge this gap and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
In a time when many communities feel disconnected from political processes, Mira Weinstein’s insights serve as a powerful reminder of the potential for positive change through relationship-building and collective action. By focusing on building power together and engaging with diverse perspectives, organizers can foster a more inclusive and equitable society.
Relevance to Progressive Activism: Mira Weinstein’s perspective aligns with progressive values by emphasizing inclusivity, equity, and community-driven change. Her emphasis on building relationships and addressing the concerns of underrepresented communities aligns with progressive ideals of social justice and empowerment. The conversation encourages a more nuanced understanding of power and its potential for transformation, reflecting the progressive approach of collaboration and collective action.