I am one of five named plaintiffs in a class-action lawsuit against Grassroots Campaigns, Inc.-- an organization started and run by folks from the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG). As a longterm community organizer, I have taken exception to the treatment of young organizers by the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG)-- the parent organization of Grassroots Campaigns, Inc (GCI)-- for many years.
In the face of a stunningly well-organized and funded radical Right we cannot afford to burn out our grassroots networks. The Fund, GCI and the PIRGs have consistently worked canvassers and organizers to the bone, busted all efforts at unionizing and violated minimum wage laws and other employment standards. It is time for the Left to hold its organizations accountable to our shared values. We espouse ethics of fair payment for time worked and leadership development with our young idealists. We will not continue to turn a blind eye to organizations and individuals who violate these values in our name.
GCI, PIRG and the Fund have a responsibility to the Left to change their employment practices, and we as current and former employees have the responsibility to hold their feet to the fire. Let's work together for a powerful and sustainable movement-- JOIN THE GCI CLASSACTION LAWSUIT!
