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Forum Post: Occupy Labor, Wages, Progressive Taxes, Worker Owned Business, Economic Justice.

Posted 11 years ago on Jan. 22, 2013, 5:48 p.m. EST by inclusionman (7064)
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154 Comments

154 Comments


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[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

OH HELL - Why Not? The insane assholes - and the insanity parade goes on and on and on and on and on and on..............................

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

It's comical isn't it.?

It can't get beyond the House but people should know who is doin what.

That's all I'm sayin.

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

but people should know who is doin what.

NO SHIT - the insanity is so blatant and so out in the open - as never before.........AAAARRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHH

And comedy/comical yes - as comedy is not at all always funny but is oft times outraging enraging.

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Outrage is required.

If we ain't, then we ain't payin attention.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

Plenty of outraged individuals about today and the insane assholes seem to be doing their best to see that those numbers of outraged swell to being an unimaginably huge number - and fast.

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Sounds like a recipe.

You know me:

Add water, some outraged individuals, a pinch of insane assholes, Protest, vote, & shake.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

Don't forget the yeast - gotta have enough yeast to make the mixture rise.

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Yeast as in maybe internet organizing?

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

YES - as well as Internet spreading of education and sounding of the alarm bells - just think - world wide communication at the touch of the finger. We have never been in such a position of free and fast world wide communication as we find ourselves here today.

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

It is making all the difference.

Communications has always been key to educating, & organizing the people against the more organized.

Internet speed is the yeast of our revolution cake baby!!

Let it rise.

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Support Unions!

"At some point in the not-so-distant-future Tennesseans, and good folk throughout the South are going to realize that labor having a voice and some muscle is the key to good jobs that can support a family, expand rights to more people each day and yes, walking upright. Soon. Someday real soon."

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/27/1324893/-Tennessee-VW-UAW-Local-42-So-Successful-Righty-Resorts-To-SockPuppets?detail=email

Who said sock puppet?

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

A Union in Tennessee. Perhaps the best thing that has ever happened for working folks in the state. Good article.

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Each small success must be spread and built on.

Many working families will benefit

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

Here is hoping that the thought of and the push for workers rights goes viral starting from this initial point of contagion.

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Oh no doubt, the momentum is shifting towards labor from mgmt. in the national discussion.

Time to ratchet up the pressure, & protests.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

Uh-Huh = "Time to ratchet up the pressure, & protests."

This country desperately needs to experience a re-birth of labor movements.

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Giving birth is long & hard. But the 'labor' is worth it & we can do it.

[-] 4 points by Renneye (3874) 10 years ago

Excellent! Thanks!

Cooperatives are the future!

I subscribed to their e-newsletter.

Very, very cool!

[-] 2 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

NYC can be a leader for progressive agenda if we can get DeBlasio to stay true to his progressive roots.

But there is always something going on somewhere.

Like this:

http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/25715-how-americas-largest-worker-owned-co-op-lifts-people-out-of-poverty

Peace

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

"Schedules that work" Matters to Parents, Working students, Workers w/ 2 jobs, FAMILIES!! & families needs trump business needs!!

https://secure2.convio.net/npwf/site/Advocacy;jsessionid=C4CD43BEDF65B5746B0AA2F6D72AA276.app263a?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1069

FY perusal

[-] 5 points by Renneye (3874) 10 years ago

'Modern Day Slavery' is an abomination on humanity. It staggers the imagination, that in these present-day and state-of-the-art times (it's 2014 ffs!), the vast majority of the world's populace has been lulled into complacency on this horrific plight for our brothers and sisters.

A HUGE OWS workplace democracy Cooperative is the answer. Where other cooperatives and socially compassionate businesses and organizations can walk with OWS on the path to dignity and joy for ALL...and companies like the one's in your article ( 'Natural Fruit' and 'NatGroup' ) in Thailand can be found on OWS' 'list of shame' until they have no choice but to clean up their disgusting business practices.

Thank you for your very important link, '99'.

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Thank YOU for listening, responding, & ALL your good work.

[-] 5 points by Renneye (3874) 10 years ago

Don't you just love the way conversations lead to directions one wouldn't have taken, had you not had the conversation?

Ours led to a query and search that led to these links.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Co-operative_Alliance

International Summit of Cooperatives - http://ica.coop/en - Quebec City, 6 to 9 October 2014

Register via Summit.coop

.

Co-operative Organizations and Associations - University of Saskatchewan - http://usaskstudies.coop/?page_id=306

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_cooperatives

Much is being done by well intentioned people already, but there is still miles to go when one looks around and sees the level of suffering around the world.

Thanks, back atcha, '99'!

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

So many groups/efforts have either started or been reinvigorated since Occupy forced a reconsideration of the discussion on ALL issues that affect working class people.

I am most encouraged, despite the slowness, backsliding & criticism.

Years of hard work in the streets, airways, & voting booth lie ahead.

[-] 0 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''In a disturbing trend that prioritizes the wealthy over the most vulnerable Americans, the House today passed H.R. 4935 by a vote of 237 to 171. Bread has dubbed it the “reverse Robin Hood” bill, which takes from the poor to give to the rich. The bill could push 12 million people—including 6 million kids--into poverty or deeper poverty while giving a tax break to households making $150,000 to $205,000.''

Pretty fkn outrageous !!! Off the fkn scale outrageous, really !! But still people in USUK etc. refuse to / can't act in their own best interests and for their own self-preservation ! The fkn mind is boggled .. UNTIL you fully realise that we do NOT actually live in any semblances of 'democracy'. Welcome to 21st Century demoCRAZY deMOCKERYcy aka 'Fascism'.

This is the core raison d'etre for OWS. This is why we're here. This is why we try to plant and water seeds for a better tomorrow for the kids and those who follow. Finally, fyi - an audio link :

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Fighting for workers rights!!

http://truth-out.org/news/item/25303-poor-parents-need-work-life-balance-too

"The “Schedules that Work” bill (introduced by Representatives George Miller and Rosa DeLauro and Senators Tom Harkin and Elizabeth Warren) is the proletarian answer to the workplace “flex” policies that are common in corporate offices. After all, poor parents need flexibility more than anyone, as they cope with the chaos of economic hardship and work unstable jobs with few benefits.."

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

I posted Wolffs article earlier.

These legislative obscenities are in fact the reason I fight. Agreed.

Informing all, of these actions is necessary. Real democracy will require informed citizens identifying which pols support these offensive acts, as well as those against.

Can't ignore reality, or pretend there ain't an election in 3 months.

Retire every pol who voted for that bill. THAT is a good start!!!

[-] 1 points by TheTrollSlayer (347) from Kingsport, TN 11 years ago

What i would like to know is how we can bring all these groups and others together

[-] 4 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

I suppose we must continue pushing them. educating, informing all people. Find companies where workers can benefit from ownership. We should also look for politicians who support these efforts. There are none within the 2 parties that I know of. I suppose 3rd party politicians may support these items. Do you?

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

An increased minimum wage would stimulate the economy

[-] 3 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

No doubt. We need it. $9 ain't enough but I'll take it, and agitate for more!!

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

be glad you have a job at all

this isn't democracy

[-] 3 points by elf3 (4203) 10 years ago

Having a job isn't all it's cracked up to be Matt. A job is only yours if you can keep it. And with the competition these days you're lucky if you don't get torn apart. You think WS is bad - wait until you meet your new co-workers. Back-stabbing desperate, greedy baboon societies dressed in casual pressed pants. The higher ups watch the Lord of Flies scenes with all the glee of puppet masters watching their little creation dance under their fingertips. You'll watch yourself doing things that make you gag and cringe (even while you sleep), you will remember yourself back in that third interview for that Petco cashier job and the manager schmuck at Stucky's restaurant that turned you down and you'll eagerly bow to your new corporate lords as if they were the great providers and you are not even worthy. You'll run around like you exist solely to serve the workforce aristocracy and sweat each day as you work harder and harder while some sociopathic bully middle manager abuses and demeans you for their own enjoyment daily... and then about five years later just as you were gaining the semblance of stability - you'll find that pink slip in your hand and get walked out the door with a box and 2 weeks pay to carry you into the future as the new unpaid intern is passing you on the way to their interview for your old newly unpaid position. Good Luck out there!

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago
[-] 0 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

Great comment & from the heart obviously. Hope you don't mind but I quoted you here :

Solidarity

[-] 4 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''The co-op turned to two Community Development Finance Institutions — Wiscasset-based CEI and the Cooperative Fund of New England— to obtain financing to buy the businesses. "People across the country have been trying to figure out the best way to assist business owners who want to consider conversion to employee ownership, either as a growth strategy or as a retirement strategy," Rob Brown, director of CDI's Business Ownership Solutions program, said in the release announcing the purchase. "In many ways this deal provides the model, and we look forward to working with the CEI into the future to ensure their success." From your link & in compliment, I append :

fiat lux ...

[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''The Foundation of a New Democratic Economy Is Worker Self-Directed Enterprises'', by Kevin Zeese & Margaret Flowers :

Also appended in compliment and solidarity.

pax ...

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Worker owned co ops taking hold in U.S.

http://axisoflogic.com/artman/publish/Article_66914.shtml

Whoops there it is

[-] 6 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''People before Profit - the slogan for production cooperatives - is an option even in the United States. Within the past decade, three forms of worker-owned and/or managed types of organizing work places are now functioning. The most democratic structure, one that could potentially transform the economy from profiteering greed to meeting everyone’s needs, is the worker-ownership cooperative.

''Mondragón is the world’s largest workers’ co-op. It was founded in 1956, and has enterprises in some 40 countries. At its peak, Mondragón in Spain had 100,000 worker-owners in 120 companies with collective annual sales of $25 billion. Because of some recent closures—due to great global competitiveness especially in China and India where workers receive low incomes that undermine decent wages—there are now about 80,000 members in 85 Spanish companies.

''The new alliance of the steelworkers union, Mondragón and OEOC is a unique ownership scheme that includes collective bargaining with those who finance enterprises.''

The above is excerpted from your link and in compliment, consider :

fiat lux ...

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Largest gov worker owned investment!!

http://inthesetimes.com/working/entry/16901/new_york_co_ops

New Yorks progressive Mayor shows the way.:

Now we must push & pressure all pols to expand this superior model.

Solidarity!

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''In a victory for new economy advocates, the New York City Council passed a budget last week that will create a $1.2 million fund for the growth of worker-owned cooperative businesses. The investment is the largest a municipal government in the U.S. has ever made in the sector, breaking new ground for the cooperative development movement.'' from your excellent link, which I recommend to all readers + fyi :

ad iudicium ...

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

Socialism - "again" - wait a minute - I thought that that was not supposed to be successful/profitable - I mean socialism - it just does not work - RIGHT? hmmmmmmm co-ops hmmmmmm

[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

Ooooh ! The ESS Word !! Scary, right ?!!!

ad iudicium ...

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Ex-cellent links, history is priceless, & I love the current NY co op status.

Real progress. However small.

And another effort!:

http://www.mlive.com/business/ann-arbor/index.ssf/2014/06/report_zingermans_hopes_to_tur.html

Spread the word

[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

http://www.democracyatwork.info/ - and so what's the word ?!

I just extracted the above from your hope inducing link. Thanx.

verb. sat. sap ...

[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

http://www.democracyatwork.info/ but sadly I'm all linked out opening your links right now so didn't open any of the above !!! It happens sometimes, lol !! You could summarise tho' lol ! Also on this 4th July, see

respice. adspice, prospice ...

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Indeed, a great speech on any day.

From said speech.

'God speed the year of jubilee The wide world o’er! When from their galling chains set free, Th’ oppress’d shall vilely bend the knee, And wear the yoke of tyranny Like brutes no more. That year will come, and freedom’s reign, To man his plundered rights again Restore.'

(No worries on the links, Co op news I think you prob support)

[-] 4 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

Right, ''jubilee'' ! There's that word again !! It really deserves some proper deep research !!!

Great li'l quote from the link. Frederick Douglass deserves all the recognition that he gets.

per aspera ad astra ...

[-] 2 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago
[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

My ''welcome'' ?!!! How so and for who ?!! What welcome and why ?!

That website you link from was already amongst my bookmarks so :

''One of the world’s leading economists gives his frank analysis of the co-operative movement and what it needs to do to establish its relevance today.''

multum in parvo ...

[-] 2 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

More great info on co ops.

Thank you.

Growing co ops is critical to the long term success of our movement.

Don't be angry, I'm not your enemy.

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

Nope, you're mistaken, lol ! I wasn't ''angry'' and really don't see you as my ''enemy'', lolol !! I was just being pedantic about your semantics and grammar, lololol !!!

pax ...

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

Inspiring & ''Sometimes resilience means surviving long enough to get out, to build something new somewhere else. But sometimes, it means staying put. In Camden, that requires a certain grit, something the city’s gardeners have in abundance. As Devlin says, “gardeners are a tenacious lot”—they work through rain, heat, and drought, hunkering down to weather each year’s winter, trusting that seeds will grow.'' - from your long but important linked article. I could see many analogies there too. fyi :

pax ...

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''The co-op turned to two Community Development Finance Institutions — Wiscasset-based CEI and the Cooperative Fund of New England— to obtain financing to buy the businesses.

"People across the country have been trying to figure out the best way to assist business owners who want to consider conversion to employee ownership, either as a growth strategy or as a retirement strategy," Rob Brown, director of CDI's Business Ownership Solutions program, said in the release announcing the purchase. "In many ways this deal provides the model, and we look forward to working with the IEC into the future to ensure their success."

"This financial transaction represents the best kind of collaboration to build wealth in Maine's rural communities," CEI Loan and Investment Officer Cole Palmer said in the release.''

The above from your 1st link. I didn't open the 2nd because I'm rather footy traumatised right now (2100 GMT, June 20th, '14) but nevertheless, I append with reference to Solstice Day tomorrow ...

pax ...

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

"Agitate, agitate, agitate!" Frederick Douglass at the end of his life when asked by a young black freedom fighter what he should be doing to create change.

(I believe he also said vote, but I can't find that quote. go figure)

smile

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''Where justice is denied, where poverty is enforced, where ignorance prevails, and where any one class is made to feel that society is an organized conspiracy to oppress, rob and degrade them, neither persons nor property will be safe.'' ;

''Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.'' & ...

''Without a struggle, there can be no progress.'' - All by FD & much more here :

Where you can also see just how far The Republican Party has now travelled !!

multum in parvo ...

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

And an excellent illustration of how the 'party' is a passing label. What has not changed is the forces against progress are concentrated in the same regions of the USA.

Great quotes.

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

"The feeling of the nation must be quickened; the conscience of the nation must be roused; the propriety of the nation must be startled; the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed; and its crimes against God and man must be proclaimed and denounced." - Fredrick Douglass & fyi on this thread :

fiat lux ...

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Great info.:

Detroit water - fuckin obscene, definitely revolution worthy

Gaurdian bits on labor always on point. (Tories supporting union rights? Not likely.

Mid east: horrendous, intractable. no solution foreseeable, end the violence & verbal violence, support only diplomacy. (not thread related but that is my best advice.)

Nice info

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Slow going but progress nonetheless

[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''Democracy Is Coming To The USA'' and hopefully, soon :

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

love it.

I suppose with the right growing movement it is inevitable that real direct democracy can be achieved in the USA (& all countries). But not without years of perseverance, & hard work.

Great song

[-] -2 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

That was quick.

Scotus hits unions (& democracy @work).

http://truth-out.org/news/item/24840-on-the-news-with-thom-hartmann-supreme-court-strikes-another-blow-to-unions-and-more

but still as you suggest :

''Democracy Is Coming To The USA'' : •http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Xk807waDRo ~*~

Just not before years of hard work

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 10 years ago

''I've seen the future and its murder'' (LC) & what ''was quick'' ? + fyi :

The fkn SCOTUS has instigated a Corporate Coup by 'stealth' and for 'wealth' as per the 'Lewis Powell Memo' and Americans have now sleep-walked into Corporate Fascism, imo !!! The bought and paid for 'Legislature' and the co-opted and corrupted 'Executive' - have been sweet fk all good at 'checking and balancing' !! And yet still some folk want to believe that voting just D or R will solve this shit, sheeesh !

ad iudicium ...

[-] -2 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Not just America lobster boy.

Our job is to continue raising our voices, coalesce with like minded groups, grow the opposition, pursuade ever more people that we must,

Protest, start worker co ops, go green, pressure politicians, educate ourselves, boycott, etc etc etc,

And of course Vote. On the issues!!!
However you want. Not just Tory or Labor. Forget the parties.

Those who think only one effort is enough are the ones we must convince to expand their arsenal.

Cool?

[-] -2 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

"Jackson Rising" w/ worker co ops

http://jacksonrising.wordpress.com/

Follow the leaders!

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

I ain't had a job in years.

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

I was a dish washer last

that turned out to be a dead end with predatory management

.

at least, I actually worked ad opposed to being a number pusher

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Worker co ops growing the new economy

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2014/06/03-6

Once again Vermont.

Wheres Zendog?

FYI, & a bump

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 10 years ago

can't log onto http://community.wizards.com/forums/102266 where I am working on a dinosaur project details

go this in my email

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[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 10 years ago

CVS is firing all their local workers because they are shutting down

and the workers have no union

[-] 3 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Boycotts, demonstrations/marches against all CVS's, & pressure on all pols.

That is my vote on the best approach to deal with that.

Got a link?

[-] -1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 10 years ago

go find a job

pay the bills

[-] 2 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

I always pay my bills. Sometimes others also.

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 10 years ago

i'm a doomed traveller

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

I feel the same.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 10 years ago

I'm studying prehistory

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

No formal studying for me.

Some topical labor/middle class news

http://www.newarkadvocate.com/article/20140521/OPINION03/305210085/Shrinking-middle-class-needs-wake-up

Study hard, but protest, & vote too.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

if i can get a job

[-] 1 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Me too.

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Extend unemployment benefits

We are going to give this another try. Update/Backgound: http://blogs.rollcall.com/218/unemployment-insurance-benefits-extension-levin/?dcz=

We are pushing for a 1 year Unemployment Benefit Extension with retroactive payment of benefits back to December 28, 2013 to be attached to either the tax cut extension bill or the highway bill in the Senate. Please be very clear on the need for retroactive payment of benefits, because they are giving up on that.

We are contacting the following three Senators and one Representative. Please be very persuasive and for maximum effect please call every number given:

Senator Harry Reid, NV: Reno: 775-686-5750 Carson City: 775-882-7343 Las Vegas: 702-388-5020 DC: 202-224-3542

Senator Dean Heller, NV: Las Vegas: 702-388-6605 Reno: 775-686-5770 DC: 202-224-6244

Senator Jack Reed, RI: Cranston (401) 943-3100 Providence (401) 528-5200 D.C. (202) 224-4642

Representative Sandy Levin, MI: DC: (888) 810-3880 Roseville: 586-498-7122

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

Here is a page with links to "tell your story" and "take action" (contact your members of congress) as part of the media push known as "Witness Wednesdays" http://www.foreffectivegov.org/euc-stories#takeaction

Here is a link to our petition to share so that we ca grow our numbers and make our Mass Actions more effective: http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/we-call-on-congress-to?mailing_id=23039&source=s.em.cr&r_by=1342324

Thx

[-] 1 points by gsw (3420) from Woodbridge Township, NJ 11 years ago

Get a foot in the door, execise your political power, focus the conversation, and unite behind all the good ideas. Get some good spokespeople. These are achievable. Get the people to believe they are worthy of enjoying middle class security, by virtue of their work, and the realization a big middle class helps the country. Call your legislators and ask for living wage.

For we, the people, understand that our country cannot succeed when a shrinking few do very well and a growing many barely make it.  (Applause.)  We believe that America’s prosperity must rest upon the broad shoulders of a rising middle class.  We know that America thrives when every person can find independence and pride in their work; when the wages of honest labor liberate families from the brink of hardship.  We are true to our creed when a little girl born into the bleakest poverty knows that she has the same chance to succeed as anybody else, because she is an American; she is free, and she is equal, not just in the eyes of God but also in our own.  (Applause.)   Obama 1-21-2013

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/01/21/inaugural-address-president-barack-obama

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_bill_of_rights

We have come to a clear realization of the fact that true individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence. “Necessitous men are not free men.”[3] People who are hungry and out of a job are the stuff of which dictatorships are made. In our day these economic truths have become accepted as self-evident. We have accepted, so to speak, a second Bill of Rights under which a new basis of security and prosperity can be established for all—regardless of station, race, or creed. Among these are: The right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries or shops or farms or mines of the nation; The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation; The right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living; The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad; The right of every family to a decent home; The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health; The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident, and unemployment; The right to a good education. All of these rights spell security. And after this war is won we must be prepared to move forward, in the implementation of these rights, to new goals of human happiness and well-being. America's own rightful place in the world depends in large part upon how fully these and similar rights have been carried into practice for all our citizens. For unless there is security here at home there cannot be lasting peace in the world.

[-] 2 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

The Swiss have the right idea. Cut pay for execs! That would allow for higher (living) wages for the rest of us.

http://news.yahoo.com/swiss-voters-approve-tough-limits-142839291.html

[-] 2 points by gsw (3420) from Woodbridge Township, NJ 11 years ago

You're right! ! We should follow their lead, here, everywhere.

Voters there can vote for binding resolutions. Nice.

Looks like a plug for direct democracy.

[-] 2 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Fighting for worker rights.

https://secure2.convio.net/npwf/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=886 Please sign

Petitioning (during election year) has moved Mayoral candidate Speaker Quinn)

http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2013/03/quinn-folds-agrees-to-paid-sick-leave-in-nyc.html

Shameless bump of this important issue.

[-] 1 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Slow growth is beginning to change the economy.

http://www.nationofchange.org/housing-health-care-7-co-ops-are-changing-our-economy-1366901440

Spreading the news can increase coop use/membership.

Worth a tweet?

[-] 3 points by gsw (3420) from Woodbridge Township, NJ 10 years ago

No I heard the economy is really bad and can tank again worse than 2008, houses have stopped selling again.

Read this report it is just one, and look around, who,has money to spend?

http://www.washingtonsblog.com/2014/06/velocity-money-u-s-falls-time-record-low.html

Edit http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/27/upshot/the-housing-market-is-still-holding-back-the-economy-heres-why.html?_r=0

[-] 1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Sounds like you are making the argument that more action (in the street, even tweets, w/ the ballot, & everywhere/way) is required.

'Worth a tweet?' is the least action we can do. No?

Protest, Vote. Repeat

[-] -1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 10 years ago

In compliment to your comment - it was reported that over 200,000 jobs were added to the economy last month ( yay??? ) only problem ( truthful ) economist had to say is - that - out of all of the jobs created - since the great economic meltdown - that of all of the well paying jobs that were lost - FEW have been created - the lions share of newly created jobs have been minimum wage = poverty wage.

[-] 1 points by gsw (3420) from Woodbridge Township, NJ 11 years ago

Thank you for more good ideas for us to practice, Inclusionman.

Glad to see Washington isrepresented.

Come to WA, we're green & progressive.

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

No thx required.

My pleasure. Never been to Wa but I know they have lotsa forward thinking people.

[-] 0 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

And END tax inversions that hurt workers, taxpayers, & help only corps/oligarchs

http://seekingalpha.com/article/2448595-tax-inversions-are-immoral-signal-need-for-reform

Whoops there it is

[-] 0 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Will people get fired if we increase the minimum wage?

http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2013/02/14/1594181/no-firing-minimum-wage-raise/

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Worker schedules matter!

http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/25167-workers-speak-out-against-work-schedule-abuse-and-retaliation

Stand up to mgmt. There is power in the union

[Removed]

[-] 0 points by TimetoStop (-55) 11 years ago

I own a small business. Most employers are small business. Why do you want to fuck with us? You really think we are your hated corporations?

[-] 3 points by BradB (2693) from Washington, DC 11 years ago

You really think we are your hated corporations? ....

no... do you ?.... if you are small business ... why do you think you are not part of the 99% ?

[-] 2 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Worker owned business, Democracy at work

http://www.democracyatwork.info/

FYI

[-] -3 points by TimetoStop (-55) 11 years ago

The hatred for business by all these Reds here puts all businesses in in the 1%.

[-] 4 points by BradB (2693) from Washington, DC 11 years ago

u're a dumb ass... most of us are REAL business owners .. not troll business owners ...

[-] -3 points by TimetoStop (-55) 11 years ago

"Most of us?" Really? Get bent you fucking liar!

[-] 3 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

Reds??

The (R)epelican'ts are the RED States.

(R)epelican'ts have been fucking with small business around here for a while now.

They much prefer the pyramid schemes. They get their advice from DeVos, the head of Amway.

Sheeesh what a bunch a crap they deal..

[+] -4 points by TimetoStop (-55) 11 years ago

So you godlike democrats are the friend of small business? Really?

[-] 3 points by GypsyKing (8708) 11 years ago

Three words - national health care. This alone would take a huge burden off small business, enabling them to both profit more and pay workers higher wages. Who stands in inflexible opposition to national health care . . . the Republican party, of course! . . . and yes, a number of Democrats oppose it as well, who we need to vote out.

That one issue, the cost of health care, is ruining the competitiveness of small business in America; it is THE central issue, and the Republicans hate the idea!

Now you tell me who is the party of small business???

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago
[-] 2 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Labor must embrace worker owned businesses.

http://inthesetimes.com/article/14872/can_co_ops_save_unions/

FYI

[-] 3 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

All I know is small business has been running from Wisconsin and MIchigan since the teabagge(R)s have enforced their tyranny.

The UAW may save Michigan if car sales take off, but it won't have a thing to do with the (R)epelican't economy killers.

It's what they do.

[+] -4 points by TimetoStop (-55) 11 years ago

Yes. Apparently that is all you know. Please go to your DNC masters and tell them they need to re-tool their propaganda. They are starting to get out of touch with reality.

[-] 4 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

That is the reality.

Have you been drinking that RupertRush juice again?

A good friend of mine, a small business owner, began losing money "right" after the "wrong" (right) wing took over.

They made him remove a cigarette rolling machine that was just fine when the Dems ran things.

Plus those fucking lying ass teabagge(R)s raised my taxes first thing.

Fucking chickenshit liars!!

You wouldn't be one of those would you?

[-] 4 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

March for higher wages in fastfood

http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5754439684/efbevent

[-] 2 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

I never said you are "hated corporations" Nor do I want to "fuck you".

[-] -2 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

Decentralize and give the power back to the people.

Its the only way out.

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Perhaps. My concern is the "states rights" extremists whose desire for decentralization is simply a mask to hide the underlying desire to exclude specific groups of Americans from governmental service. I would submit the corrupt politicians are among the national and local level. I read just recently where Va, Pa, were in the midst of dishonest redistricting to exclude the other party, with plans to do the same in Oh, and Mi. So I don't think decentralization is any guarantee. I di support giving power back to the people though (since it's been stolen by the corp 1%)

[-] 6 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

My concern is the "states rights" extremists whose desire for decentralization is simply a mask to hide the underlying desire to exclude specific groups of Americans from governmental service.

Amen.

[-] 1 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

I'm sure I am overly suspicious of "decentralization" just as I am suspicious of the current corp owned duopoly. I suggest the solution is money out of politics. Bensdad is working on this through Occupy, I've seen others push movetoamend.org. So I think that would go the longest way to improve the responsiveness of government to the needs of the 99%. National, local, central, decentralized, don't matter as much to me as getting money out of politics.

[-] -1 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

I think your concern is valid. It all comes down to the people, are they willing to actually self govern. If they are, as occupy showed, then decentralized is great.

If they want to do more of the same, then centralize the power, or decentralize it, it doesnt really matter.

[-] -1 points by 99nproud (2697) 10 years ago

Green worker co op news:

http://www.greenworker.coop/

FYI

(BTW your concerns regarding states rights extremists are well founded)

Peace

[-] 2 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Higher wages will resolve the great recession and the historic wage stagnation.

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=9774#.UTQPwVdXqJq

[-] -1 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

Wages have become low due to certain reasons. Simply raising them via some task force study does nothing to prevent it in the future. There is only so much time in a week, perhaps it should be used to address the root causes and not the symptoms?

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

That's a good reason not to help the decent hard working Americans struggling with low wages.

But.....

I'm afraid we are gonna have to address the most acute immediate,short term problem of low wages (increase min wage, add auto increases, fight for living wage) while working to minimize/correct the root causes.

http://bostonherald.com/business/business_markets/2013/02/minimum_wage_bump_would_help_234g_bay_state_workers

What do you suggest we do to correct the root causes.?

[-] -1 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

The entire system has been taken over by the banking syndicate. Im not saying that raising minimum wage wont help someone, but you are forgetting what I just said- there is only so much time in the week, month and year- it needs to be allocated appropriately.

Congress focusing on the low lying fruit while the tree is being uprooted is what has gotten us into this mess. Focus on the roots.

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

That's a great analogy and a good argument to not focus on helping decent hard working Americans with the minimum wage increase (that would be your low fruit???)

I agree we should focus on the root cause (that would be your uprooted tree?)

I disagree that it must be one or the other. I reject the suggestion that we can't address min wage increase (low fruit?) while also addressing long term causes (uprooted tree?)

What do you suggest we do to correct the root causes.? (2nd time I've asked. Are you interested in dealing with the causes, or just in using the causes to oppose action to raise the min wage?)

[-] 1 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

If you dont know the several platforms we have talked about to address this, then please go back to previous posts. Im not writing entire posts all over again.

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Oh sure. I understand. It's not so important that you should state a one line description (never asked for entire post rewrite) of what you think the root cause is.

We're only talking about tens of millions of decent hard working (and unemployed) fellow citizens who would benefit from our efforts (short & long term).

Perhaps a one line (or link to the alleged post you referred to) regarding the root cause and the strategy to correct it might not be too much for you.

i assure you the people who might read this will benefit from your thoughtful ideas.

And our fellow citizens are worth at least one line or a link ain't they?

[-] -1 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

Move Fed to Treasury, or eliminate it all together, make positions democractically elected, SEC should be a democratically elected body, allow banks to fail, stop the bailouts, break them up, rework tax system to stop robbing people...etc etc...MTA...etc etc... server only holds so many posts, couldnt find it searching OTP or HCHC so Im not sure what to say about that. I guess Ill have to create another one.

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Oh well I guess it's enough just to state, analogize, offer reasons NOT to raise min wage (Low fruit) that will have to be enough.

Your work is done.

BTW, the suggestions you mentioned were not really bad.

how should we go about making that happen.? What actions would you suggest to create that change.?

[-] -1 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

And Ive said before- go ahead and raise it. It will feel good to those who get the benefits- you arent one of em- for a minute, but its not going to address the roots. Its more reactionary tail chasing, while the carrot stick is getting even longer.

The only people who pay that low are multinationals. No decent human pays another less than 10, thats my stance. Take away all their tax,trade and lobbying benefits and they will destroy themselves.

[-] 3 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

Millions of decent hard working American adults depend on the minimum wage to support their families.

Your maligning of the efforts to help our fellow citizens is offensive.

I agree with you, we MUST work to resolve the root cause, but you continue your transparent effort to put down, and denigrate this important part of the good fight to help the 99%.

[-] -1 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

Well, a broad based movement in the streets to educate the public of all political persuasions, and made of a wide array of political persuasions, all addressing the corruption would be a nice start :)

Perhaps our short term attention span needs to be addressed? While that ground swell was the most impressive, potentially in 40 years here, the shortness of the bell curve is quite disturbing.

[-] 2 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

We ARE doing just that. The TV age ADHD population has begun to wake up. We ARE continueing the good fight of educating all. We must ratchet it up. Many actions are being planned for the spring. What are you planning in Tampa?

So that is happening. Not fast enough for me. (and probably not you) but we are doing it. It will take years of hard work.

So since we ARE doing what you suggest we need to for the uprooting of the tree, would you be willing to focus on and agree that we should fight for increased min wage with auto increases, as well as implementing a living wage.

Might I suggest that the fight for these critical short term goals can serve to continue the education you claim we need.

Whaddyathink?

[-] 1 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

support fastfood workers fighting for higher wages better conditions

http://www.fastfoodforward.org/en/

March with us!!

http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5754439684/efbevent