Columnist Jamala-Rogers
This week thousands of activists, social movements, networks, coalitions and other progressive forces will converge on Atlanta for the first US Social Forum (USSF). The historic gathering will follow the path of World Social Forums (WSF) by seeking concrete, sustainable and progressive alternatives to globalization. The US Social Forum will provide space for discussing creative strategies, sharing organizing experiences and critiquing social movements for change.
The first World Social Forum was held in 2001 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. It attracted 20,000 people. Since then, the forums have exploded to over 150,000 participants with venues in Africa, South America and India.
The WSFs can be described as natural and logical responses to the World Economic Forums and G-8 Summits. The G-8 includes the U.S., Britain, Germany, Italy, Canada, France, Russia and Japan. These governments represent about 65 percent of the world economy. Monster demonstrations followed these meetings because it was clear that these governments collectively were responsible for destroying the economies of under-developed countries; intensified the destruction of the environment; unleashed needless military conflicts; and in general engaged in inhumane policies that were exploitative and oppressive.
It doesn’t take long to figure out that the U.S. is one of the most perilous sources of these activities and policies. This country is often seen as the greatest threat to world peace. The WSF themes have been variations of “Another World is Possible”. The USSF has added “Another US is necessary.” It is important to send a message to the rest of the world that there is movement here that opposes U.S. policies at home and abroad.
The social forums themselves have not escaped criticism. There have been criticisms by participants about corporate monies used to underwrite costs, about undemocratic processes, about exclusion of poor folks, about abstract solutions to tangible problems. Most are legitimate concerns and definitely need to be resolutely addressed.
In the meantime, excitement is growing and preparations are being made by students, unionists, activists, educators and others to attend plenaries, workshops, cultural presentations, film festivals and a host of other activities that are sure to overwhelm the social forum neophyte.
The selection of Atlanta as the USSF site was most deliberate. It is the birthplace and political home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one of our most revered leaders whom we have shared with the world. Part of the opening ceremony will include a wreath laying ceremony at the King Center.
Dr. King once said, “The hope of a secure and viable world lies with disciplined nonconformists who are dedicated to peace, justice and brotherhood.” Fifteen thousand disciplined nonconformists will represent hundreds of organizations that will raise their voices against all forms of discrimination, exploitation and war. The spirit of Dr. King lives on.
You can check out the happenings at www.ussf2007.org.