ARA Chapters in NC?
I've looked but haven't found anything? I'm interested in starting a chapter where I live. It's a small town but racism, sexism, homophobia, etc., is a definite problem.
If there's any ARA members who could help me out in organizing a chapter in the area (Western North Carolina), please message me or comment here.
Apparently I am yet unable to post links. The ARA website has a section on how to start a new chapter.:cool:
http://antiracistaction.org/
Quote:
- All ARA members and chapters MUST agree with the Points of Unity. If you don't agree with everything you read in the Points of Unity, that means that ARA is not really the movement for you. But don't let that stop you from fighting against hate! Consider finding another movement that reflects your viewpoints better, or start your own! We stand in solidarity with those who confront fascism.
- Get in touch with the ARA chapter nearest to you. If there isn't an ARA chapter in your area already, your nearest chapter will be able to help you get one started. Even if the nearest chapter is far away, don't get discouraged. It won't take long before you find people nearby who want to help out, and an established ARA chapter can help you do that!
- Open an email account, PO Box, and voice mail. You don't need all of them, but the more ways people can contact you, the faster you'll grow. At the very least, however, you should have an email address to accept intel.
- Get the word out. Download some flyers and print them out with your local contact information on them. Take them door-to-door, to local punk or hip hop shows, to concerts or community events. You also might want to try making or buying t-shirts, buttons or patches to sell or give away to get the ARA name out around town. Be sure to get in contact with local punk bands, emcees and dj's to see if they're willing to show their support for ARA. Eventually, you might even want to start organizing your own anti-racist shows and events.
You also might want to set up a website, too. It doesn't have to be fancy, We here at the network can assist you with something that has basic contact information about your chapter, what projects you're working on, and upcoming events. You can get your own domain name, or you can use a subdomain of ours (eg: city.antiracistaction.org). - Get organized. When you have enough people interested, start an email list so people can keep informed about what's going on both in your community and around the world. Eventually, you'll want to start having regular meetings to start coordinating activities.
- Find an issue that's important to your community, and take action! Maybe you have a problem with police brutality in your town, and want to start a copwatch program. Maybe the radical anti-choicer's have been harassing the local clinic, or maybe there's a racist or anti-immigrant group organizing and causing trouble, and you want to organize to stop them. Whatever the issue is, don't be afraid to speak up, you'll be amazed at how many people will be glad you did.
And if you have questions, don't hesitate to ask other ARA members or chapters for help or advice. Some of us have been doing this for over a decade, and we're always willing to help!
ARA has a pretty active Charlotte chapter, last time I checked.