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Grassroots political activity and public policy work:
Real social change is a result of genuine community involvement in political activity and public policy. In addition to conventional political methods focused on educating elected public officials, grassroots activists organize local communities around specific issues of concern. They seek out local allies, identify common ground, and work together toward the implementation of just and innovative political strategies. Examples include door-to-door campaigning for clean water action, lobbying for funding to build affordable housing, or organizing a letter writing campaign urging Congress to change existing immigration policies.
Although grassroots activism commonly targets local issues, its methods are also globally applicable. The organizations featured below are examples of United States-based communities working to change policies at both local and global levels.
Featured organizations
Africa Action is the oldest organization in the U.S. working on African affairs. Our mission is to change U.S. Africa relations to promote political, economic and social justice in Africa. We provide accessible information and analysis and we mobilize popular support for campaigns to achieve this mission.
Latin
American Working Group (LAWG):
The Latin America Working Group serves a coalition of nongovernmental, religious, grassroots and humanitarian agencies. We bring coalition partners together to create advocacy and public education campaigns to encourage U.S. policy towards Latin America and the Caribbean that favors human rights, justice, peace and sustainable development.
Washington
Office on Latin America (WOLA):
WOLA promotes human rights, democracy, and social and economic justice in Latin America and the Caribbean. WOLA facilitates dialogue between governmental and nongovernmental actors, monitors the impact of policies and programs of governments and international organizations, and promotes alternatives through reporting, education, training and advocacy. Founded in 1974 by a coalition of religious and civic leaders, WOLA works closely with civil society organizations and government officials throughout the hemisphere.
Wellstone Action is a national center for training and leadership development for the progressive movement. Founded in January 2003, Wellstone Action’s mission is to honor the legacy of Paul and Sheila Wellstone by continuing their work through training, educating, mobilizing and organizing a vast network of progressive individuals and organizations.
Additional grassroots political activity and public policy work resources
