We need an all-peoples' movement this Fall for these activities.
It may be true that individual organizations can do a fair job of fighting to save jobs, stop cuts, and end wars; but we can be much more effective by recognizing that our interests coincide, especially on the October 2 national event. An Ad Hoc committee, one that has only one single purpose and will probably disband afterward, is the strongest form of coalition.
The AFL-CIO's statement on the Oct 2 march explains the multi-racial, single-purpose nature of the "One Nation" coalition. It makes clear that the purpose of this national march is to change the nation's focus away from wars and banking toward ending the suffering of the people. As it happens, North Texans will be winding down their voter registration drives as the state's October 4 deadline approaches. A rally or march at the end of September honoring North Texans who are going to Washington, would be one good way for us to participate in this internationally important event.
National Jobs with Justice called a "Day of Action" to raise consciousness about the economic crisis and to point out exactly who is obstructing any solution. Texas Senator Cornyn is one of those especially pointed out. Locally, our Jobs with Justice activists think we can accomplish the most by focusing on the draconian cuts proposed by the City of Dallas. They intend to slash jobs and city services rather than seriously consider any changes in the revenue side of their budget. All over the area, groups such as "Friends of the Library" are meeting to defend themselves against particular cuts. They are doing a great job, but could be much stronger with a united effort. City Council is expected to vote at the end of September, consequently, their Wednesday, September 15, meeting may be the last major meeting before the actual vote.
North Texas Jobs with Justice proposes a rally at 5 PM on September 15 at City Hall Plaza, 1500 Marilla (Ervay & Young Streets).
The Workers Rights Board gathers community leaders to investigate and make recommendations on serious social justice problems. On Saturday, September 4 at 10 AM, they plan to gather in Judge Luis Sepulveda's Courtroom, 410 S. Beckley in Dallas, to hear testimony on the economic crisis. The public and newspersons are invited.
The United Auto Workers Union, with its new President Bob King, recently took the position that the United States should pull all military forces out of the Middle East and use that money for jobs at home. They agreed to march with Operation Push on August 28 in Detroit. August 28 is the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's "I have a Dream" speech. At least one North Texas activist, retired auto worker Jeff Robinson, plans to participate.
Let's see if we can't get a coalition started. We could meet at 7 PM Wednesday, September 8th, at UAW 848 union hall, 2218 E Main in Grand Prairie. People might want to start before then, though. North Texas Jobs with Justice is ready to meet with any progressive organization anywhere.
love & solidarity
Gene Lantz, Organizer
North Texas Jobs with Justice
214-942-4236
labordallas@sbcglobal.net
Resolution on Jobs for Americans
WHEREAS, the job market in the U.S. has deteriorated to the point where million of Americans – and nearly 1 million Texans – are out of work, with many more falling into the “underemployed” category;
WHEREAS, while the federal government averted a meltdown in the nation’s banking system through a variety of actions, including an economic stimulus program, the crisis in jobs has persisted;
WHEREAS, the need to provide jobs for all willing workers is urgent;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that ______________________ (organization or individual) supports a jobs plan that includes these elements:
1) Extensions of unemployment insurance benefits
2) A full commitment to rebuild the nation’s infrastructure, including schools, roads and energy systems;
3) Increased federal aid to state and local governments to maintain vital services;
4) A government effort to match unemployed Americans to jobs that need to be done in distressed communities across the nation; and
5) Use of government funds to enable community banks to lend money to small- and medium-sized businesses
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the delegates endorse quick action on job creation – which is not to be confused with blind subsidies to employers who do not follow through on job creation promises. America needs good jobs now.