US Social Forum Wiki - person's contributions [en]

U.S. Social Forum Writer's Network

2015-01-22T12:00:42Z

Jackie Smith: /* Who we are: */

{{RightTOC}}
The USSF Writers Network is part of the [[Communications Working Group]] for the [[US Social Forum]]. We will work to help raise public awareness about the [[USSF]] and the issues it addresses among the many diverse groups that make up our country. We aim to:
* '''broaden participation in the [[USSF]]''', particularly among groups most excluded from mainstream politics,
* '''expand networks among diverse media practitioners''' in a collaborative effort to disseminate information and stories about the [[USSF]],
* '''inform members and the public''' about the US Social Forum and the larger World Social Forum process (See [[USSF Resources Page]]), and
* '''increase awareness and understandings of the global movement''' of which the [[USSF]] is part.

''"Let’s make a network of communication among all our struggles and resistances. An intercontinental network of alternative communication against neoliberalism… (and) for humanity. This intercontinental network of alternative communication will weave the channels so that words may travel all the roads that resist… (It) will be the medium by which distinct resistances communicate with one another. This intercontinental network of alternative communication is not an organizing structure, nor has a central head or decision maker, nor does it have a central command or hierarchies. We are the network, all of us who speak and listen."''
--Subcomandante Marcos

==Who we are:==
* Writers (amateur and professional)
* Poets
* Visual artists
* Journalists
* Sociologists without Borders
* Activists
* Regular Folks

We are responding to and helping build a movement for social justice in the United States and to support the [[World Social Forum]] process. Our aim is to help the exploited, excluded, downtrodden, hopeless, underpaid, overworked, unemployed--and all those who need hope—see that [[Another World is Possible]]. The [[U.S. Social Forum]] is a way we can, together, make that world a reality.

==What do I do?==

By committing just a few hours per month, you can be a part of our historic effort to build the movement for social justice in the U.S.

Participants in the Writers Network commit to do the following actions in support of the [[USSF]]:
* Write at least one essay, op-ed, news analysis, or other piece per month for general audience news sources to help educate the wider U.S. public about the [[USSF]], the people it involves, and/or the issues it addresses; and/or
* Write at least three analyses, poems, opinion pieces, announcements, etc. in specialized publications targeting particular audiences of activists, community gruops, professionals, or other publics who should know about the [[USSF]] and/or who can contribute to the work of the [[USSF]]; &
* Following the [[USSF]], write and speak to inform the U.S. public about the [[USSF]]'s discussions ideas for advancing the goals of social movement cooperation and progressive social change in this country; &
* Encourage friends and colleagues to make financial contributions to support the [[USSF]]. The costs of this meeting are high, and organizers also seek to raise money to increase participation from low-income activists. Costs will be met through registration fees, donations, and corporate or foundation grants; &/or
* Speak to journalists and/or activists in participants’ own communities about the USSF and encourage local participation in and/or media coverage of the forum;
*Be creative in using ''[[Wikipedia:Social_media| Social Media]]'' to spread the word about the USSF.

Writers Network members will receive regular updates on relevant developments in [[USSF]] planning, ideas for stories, and suggestions for finding publication outlets for material.

==How do I join?==

Subscribe to the mailing list by going to https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/writers_network

Once you are subscribed, you'll receive bi-weekly messages with updates and suggestions for timely articles or essays on the USSF process. We'll also include any additional suggestions we hear for getting your writing out into the world. This list is an announcement list only, so there won't be more than 2-4 messages per month. If you'd like to send information that you wish to have made available to the network, email writers@ussf2010.org .

**Encourage others to join the network by spreading the [[Call for Participation]]

==Writing tips==

====Here are some tips on how to pitch your articles to local media outlets====

* Contact your institution’s office of media relations, vice president for news, or any other public relations body. They will have contact information for opinion page editors at local newspapers and magazines. They can also be quite helpful in trying to place opinion pieces by faculty members to larger media organizations.
* Media strategy suggestions from Eric Brown, Communications Director, Center for a New American Dream http://www.timeday.org/book-appendix-c.asp
* The [[Progressive Media Project]] accepts and edits commentaries from activist, advocates or other specialists and distributes them via the [[McClatchy-Tribune News Service]] to leading metropolitan newspapers around the country. You can find the submission guidelines at: http://progressive.org/pmp_submit
* Keyword searches on Google News, Lexis/Nexis or other news databases will allow you to search for major newspapers or publications in particular states that have featured articles or topics similar to yours in the past. Once you find print or electronic publications that seem likely to run your piece, you can find the opinion editor’s contact information from the publication’s Web site and write directly to that person.
** Google Alerts will help keep you up to date with news of interest to you.
* The following links contain useful guidelines for writing opinion pieces and pitching them to the media:
** http://www.virginia.edu/topnews/facultyopinions/about.html
** http://www.landmines.org/getinvolved/startacampaign/media.cfm
* After submitting your article to the USSF Writers’ Network website, contact only one other media outlet at a time to avoid multiple publications. If a particular outlet rejects your piece, then you may send it to another publication.

====Write like the media====

Scan the publications or Web sites you would like to target and see how their pieces are written. You don’t have to compromise your own writing style or content, but an editor will be more inclined to feature your article if you emulate the publication’s general writing style. Most journalistic writing, including opinion pieces, aim to be clear, concise and to the point. Paragraphs are short, usually no more than three sentences. Active voice is always best. Keep in mind that articles for the Web tend to be shorter than those written for print publications.

* Surf the Web. With some internet searching, you can find submission guidelines to various progressive media Web sites. Here are a few to start with and the links to their submission guidelines:
** [http://otherwords.org/about/for-writers/ Other Words]
** The [http://progressive.org/pmp_submit Progressive Media Project]
** [http://www.truth-out.org/about-us/submission-guidelines Truthout]
** [http://www.counterpunch.org/faqs/ Counterpunch]
** [http://www.alternet.org/writer-guidelines Alternet]
** [http://www.commondreams.org/submissions.htm CommonDreams.org]
** [http://www.tompaine.com/contact TomPaine.com]
** [http://indymedia.org/en/index.shtml Independent Media Center](click the ‘PUBLISH’ link and follow directions)

* Follow-up is important. Newspapers receive hundreds of submissions every day, and Web sites probably receive much more. Personal follow-up is important to distinguish yourself and your work from the masses. If you submit to a print publication, follow-up with a phone call rather than an e-mail. The same is true for Web sites if you can find the editor’s phone number on the site. Otherwise, send an e-mail. Follow-up strategies vary. Once you start doing it, you will find what works best for you.

* Track your stories. Publications, especially Web sites, don’t always let you know that they have published your article. It is important to keep checking the papers and sites to see if your story pops up. When it does, report back to us with the name of the publication or Web site, the date it ran your story (if it’s a print publication), and any other relevant information.

* It’s who you know. If you have or make any contacts or connections to editors or writers at progressive media publications, talk to them. Talk to them a lot. Tell them about the USSF Writers’ Network. Ask if they are interested in more articles by our writers. Perhaps they would like to publish one every week. Perhaps more. Finally, tell us about any connections you have made.

====Report your successes====

* As soon as your piece is published, please send it (or a link to it) to writers@ussf2010.org . Tell us the details: who printed your piece, date of publication, and web site address of your article if it appears online. We will keep a record of sources that have featured pieces from our Writers’ Network and when.

* If you find any publications that seem likely to publish other pieces from our Writers’ Network or other media outlets that accept submissions, let us know so we can share the information with the other writers.

==Resources, Background Information, and Important Updates==

See: [http://www.pitchengine.com/unitedstatessocialforumussf2010/us-social-forum-organizing-website-live/43110/ USSF News Room] and
[[USSF Resources Page]]

For the latest news and updates, see: [[USSF Updates]]

Documenting and Evaluating

2014-11-19T15:51:11Z

Jackie Smith:

* Here is a brief intro to [[wiki]]''

[[Media:USSF Evaluation Indicators 2010 DRAFT.pdf |'''Evaluation Research Strategy''']]

This document provides an overview of the research strategies we plan to use to evaluate the US Social Forum and the planning process surrounding and following it. The main research tools we'll use include interviews and observations of organizing work in Detroit and at the National level, observations of workshops and cultural activities at the USSF itself, and surveys of participants in the USSF. We'll build on surveys and tools used by other scholars and activists and will continue to improve these as we reflect on the Detroit USSF.

'''Preliminary Reports on the USSF'''
::Click on the tab that says "Talk page" to provide your reactions, thoughts, ideas based on these reports

'''1) Organizing Process'''

:[[Media:NPC_Overarching_Themes_2009-2010.pdf‎ |Summary of NPC discussions of political questions 2009-2011]]

:[[Media:NPC_Survey_Charts_&_Graphs.xls|NPC Survey Charts & Graphs]] (.xls)

:[[Media:Open_ended_responses_All.pdf‎| NPC Survey Open Ended Responses]] (.pdf)

:[[Media:Ussfstandardized_rpts.pdf‎| Standardized Work Reports for USSF Work Areas]] (87 pages, .pdf)

:[[Media: Smith_Doerr_Summary_of_Findings_on_WSF_USSF.pdf‎ |Summary of research on development of norms and leadership in the US and World Social Forums]]

'''2) At the USSF'''

:[http://irows.ucr.edu/papers/irows64/irows64.htm UC-R* Report on Survey of Participants in USSF 2010]

:[[Media: USSF_Workshop_Summary_Report_NPC.pdf‎ | Report on workshops at the USSF (.pdf)]]

:[[Media: Summary_Transcript_Future_of_the_Forum_2010.pdf‎ | Summary Transcript of USSF Workshop on the "Future of the Forums-Learning from the US Social Forum (.pdf)]]

:[[Media: Juris_et_al_BOSTON_Report_(short_version_final).pdf‎ | Boston Freedom Ride: Report from the Boston Scholar-Activist Research Collaborative]]

''3) Post-USSF Follow-up'''
:[[Media: PMA_Synthesis_Report_Braggs.pdf | "Synthesis report from USSF Detroit PMA process'" (.pdf)]]
:[[Media: People's_Movement_Assembly_Fall_2012_Update.pdf‎ | "Fall 2012 Update of PMA Process and Goals'" (.pdf)]]
:For more information, see:[http://peoplesmovementassembly.org/ People's Movement Assembly Process]

:[[Media: Left_Forum_2012_Panel_SUMMARY.pdf‎ | '''Left Forum 2012-Report on Workshops on Links between Occupy Wall Street and US/WSF Process''' (.pdf)]]

:[[Media: Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf | '''Report on USSF E-newsletter, 2012''' (.pdf)]]

* *''"UC-R" Materials- A research [[team]] of student and scholar volunteers helped collect survey data. Evaluation Committee member Jackie Smith also helped train volunteers who interviewed leaders and participants, and observed a sample of workshops and cultural events at the USSF. This is contributing to our ongoing work to document and evaluate the effectiveness and the accomplishments of the US Social Forum and learn from this experience about how best to organize in today's political climate.''

'''Preparations for Documenting the USSF'''
Students and researchers volunteering to assist in this effort to help document and evaluate the USSF worked in advance of the USSF to familiarize themselves with the US Social Forum and World Social Forum process, as well as with methods of studying social movements. They attended workshops and trainings in Detroit just prior to the USSF. The following links contain Recommended Readings:
:: Resources on Detroit and on the WSF and USSF- [http://wiki.ussf2010.org/wiki/USSF_Resources_Page USSF Detroit Background Readings]

'''Observation study'''

The US Social Forum will be an intense five days of cultural events and workshops as well as informal and spontaneous gatherings of activists, organizers, and others hoping to make another United States possible. To document what is happening over this short period, we have assembled a team of trained students and scholars who will spread out across the wide array of events and spaces of the USSF to document what is happening. We will organize these observations in a way that can be useful for assessing the USSF's impact on social movements attending the gathering.

Our observation protocol is designed to help us collect comparable information across diverse workshops and cultural events. Research team members are encouraged to review this document and provide their feedback on the research instrument. We are working hard to make this tool as easy to use as possible and as comprehensive as possible in capturing all the elements of the workshops that reflect the work that is happening at the USSF. This page will link to the most updated version of our observation tools.

::*Long-form of observation protocol: ''Before the US Social Forum,'' familiarize yourself with this form so you can be ready to record your observations and organize your research notes to help you answer the questions in this form. ''After the US Social Forum,'' use this form to organize your reports on the workshops you observed [http://doc.socialforum.net/ Post your entries here].

::You may complete this form for each of the workshops you observed and send to: research at ussf2010.org

:PDF [[Media:USSF_Observation_Guide_Long_Form.pdf]]

::*Observation protocol- short form: Familiarize yourself with this observation guide and keep a copy of this with you as you attend workshops and take detailed observation notes during the USSF. [[Media:Observation protocol Draft.pdf]]

:* [http://organize.ussf2010.org/workshops Link to list of workshops]
::**Let us know if you would like to focus on a particular issue, theme, or constituency [[Issue-Theme-Constituency Sign Up Form]]

'''Survey of USSF Participants'''

This survey is being led by a research team at the University of California Riverside. This team has conducted surveys at the 2005 World Social Forum in Porto Alegre, the 2007 World Social Forum in Nairobi, and at the 2007 US Social Forum in Atlanta. Reports on their research can be found at:
http://www.irows.ucr.edu/research/tsmstudy.htm

'''Supporting Documentation of the USSF'''

Our team will also be conducting [[interviews]] with participants in the USSF and uploading digital recordings (as appropriate and acceptable to participants) to the Peoples University of the USSF archive.

Volunteers are asked to bring digital audio recorders and/or video equipment to record interviews. The People's Media Center will have facilities for uploading material.

**Please use the [[Talk:Documenting_and_Evaluating|talk page]] to provide suggestions for modifications to these research tools or to comment on the overall design plan for the study. Your input is vital to making sure our work can contribute to improving movement building in the United States and in the World Social Forums.

Documenting and Evaluating

2014-11-19T15:14:51Z

Jackie Smith:

* Here is a brief intro to [[wiki]]''

[[Media:USSF Evaluation Indicators 2010 DRAFT.pdf |'''Evaluation Research Strategy''']]

This document provides an overview of the research strategies we plan to use to evaluate the US Social Forum and the planning process surrounding and following it. The main research tools we'll use include interviews and observations of organizing work in Detroit and at the National level, observations of workshops and cultural activities at the USSF itself, and surveys of participants in the USSF. We'll build on surveys and tools used by other scholars and activists and will continue to improve these as we reflect on the Detroit USSF.

'''Preliminary Reports on the USSF'''
::Click on the tab that says "Talk page" to provide your reactions, thoughts, ideas based on these reports

'''1) Organizing Process'''

:[[Media:NPC_Overarching_Themes_2009-2010.pdf‎ |Summary of NPC discussions of political questions 2009-2011]]

:[[Media:NPC_Survey_Charts_&_Graphs.xls|NPC Survey Charts & Graphs]] (.xls)

:[[Media:Open_ended_responses_All.pdf‎| NPC Survey Open Ended Responses]] (.pdf)

:[[Media:Ussfstandardized_rpts.pdf‎| Standardized Work Reports for USSF Work Areas]] (87 pages, .pdf)

:[[Media: Smith_Doerr_Summary_of_Findings_on_WSF_USSF.pdf‎ |Summary of research on development of norms and leadership in the US and World Social Forums]]

'''2) At the USSF'''

:[http://irows.ucr.edu/papers/irows64/irows64.htm UC-R* Report on Survey of Participants in USSF 2010]

:[[Media: USSF_Workshop_Summary_Report_NPC.pdf‎ | Report on workshops at the USSF (.pdf)]]

:[[Media: Summary_Transcript_Future_of_the_Forum_2010.pdf‎ | Summary Transcript of USSF Workshop on the "Future of the Forums-Learning from the US Social Forum (.pdf)]]

:[[Media: Juris_et_al_BOSTON_Report_(short_version_final).pdf‎ | Boston Freedom Ride: Report from the Boston Scholar-Activist Research Collaborative]]

''3) Post-USSF Follow-up'''
:[[Media: PMA_Synthesis_Report_Braggs.pdf | "Synthesis report from USSF Detroit PMA process'" (.pdf)]]
:[[Media: People's_Movement_Assembly_Fall_2012_Update.pdf‎ | "Fall 2012 Update of PMA Process and Goals'" (.pdf)]]
:For more information, see:[http://peoplesmovementassembly.org/ People's Movement Assembly Process]

:[[Media: Left_Forum_2012_Panel_SUMMARY.pdf‎ | '''Left Forum 2012-Report on Workshops on Links between Occupy Wall Street and US/WSF Process''' (.pdf)]]

:[[Media: Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf | '''Report on USSF E-newsletter, 2012''' (.pdf)]]

* *''"UC-R" Materials- A research [[team]] of student and scholar volunteers helped collect survey data. Evaluation Committee member Jackie Smith also helped train volunteers who interviewed leaders and participants, and observed a sample of workshops and cultural events at the USSF. This is contributing to our ongoing work to document and evaluate the effectiveness and the accomplishments of the US Social Forum and learn from this experience about how best to organize in today's political climate.''

'''Preparations for Documenting the USSF'''
Students and researchers volunteering to assist in this effort to help document and evaluate the USSF worked in advance of the USSF to familiarize themselves with the US Social Forum and World Social Forum process, as well as with methods of studying social movements. They attended workshops and trainings in Detroit just prior to the USSF. The following links contain Recommended Readings:
:: Resources on Detroit and on the WSF and USSF- [http://wiki.ussf2010.org/wiki/USSF_Resources_Page USSF Detroit Background Readings]

'''Observation study'''

The US Social Forum will be an intense five days of cultural events and workshops as well as informal and spontaneous gatherings of activists, organizers, and others hoping to make another United States possible. To document what is happening over this short period, we have assembled a team of trained students and scholars who will spread out across the wide array of events and spaces of the USSF to document what is happening. We will organize these observations in a way that can be useful for assessing the USSF's impact on social movements attending the gathering.

Our observation protocol is designed to help us collect comparable information across diverse workshops and cultural events. Research team members are encouraged to review this document and provide their feedback on the research instrument. We are working hard to make this tool as easy to use as possible and as comprehensive as possible in capturing all the elements of the workshops that reflect the work that is happening at the USSF. This page will link to the most updated version of our observation tools.

::*Long-form of observation protocol: ''Before the US Social Forum,'' familiarize yourself with this form so you can be ready to record your observations and organize your research notes to help you answer the questions in this form. ''After the US Social Forum,'' use this form to organize your reports on the workshops you observed [http://doc.socialforum.net/ Post your entries here].

::You may complete this form for each of the workshops you observed and send to: research at ussf2010.org

:PDF [[Media:USSF_Observation_Guide_Long_Form.pdf]]

::*Observation protocol- short form: Familiarize yourself with this observation guide and keep a copy of this with you as you attend workshops and take detailed observation notes during the USSF. [[Media:Observation protocol Draft.pdf]]

:* [http://organize.ussf2010.org/workshops Link to list of workshops]
::**Let us know if you would like to focus on a particular issue, theme, or constituency [[Issue-Theme-Constituency Sign Up Form]]

'''Survey of USSF Participants'''

This survey is being led by a research team at the University of California Riverside. This team has conducted surveys at the 2005 World Social Forum in Porto Alegre, the 2007 World Social Forum in Nairobi, and at the 2007 US Social Forum in Atlanta. Reports on their research can be found at:
http://www.irows.ucr.edu/research/tsmstudy.htm

Here is the draft of the questionnaire we plan to use to find out who is participating in the US Social Forum in Detroit:
* [[Media:USSF_2010_Survey_English_FINAL_submit2.pdf]]
* [[Media:USSF_2010_Spanish_FINAL_submit.pdf]]
* [[Media:Draft survey of USSF participants.pdf]]

'''Supporting Documentation of the USSF'''

Our team will also be conducting [[interviews]] with participants in the USSF and uploading digital recordings (as appropriate and acceptable to participants) to the Peoples University of the USSF archive.

Volunteers are asked to bring digital audio recorders and/or video equipment to record interviews. The People's Media Center will have facilities for uploading material.

**Please use the [[Talk:Documenting_and_Evaluating|talk page]] to provide suggestions for modifications to these research tools or to comment on the overall design plan for the study. Your input is vital to making sure our work can contribute to improving movement building in the United States and in the World Social Forums.

File:Solidarity economy Juan Gerardo.pdf

2014-09-14T16:32:29Z

Jackie Smith: Jackie Smith uploaded a new version of "File:Solidarity economy Juan Gerardo.pdf"

File:Solidarity economy Juan Gerardo.pdf

2014-09-14T15:46:35Z

Jackie Smith: Jackie Smith uploaded a new version of "File:Solidarity economy Juan Gerardo.pdf"

File:Solidarity economy Juan Gerardo.pdf

2014-09-14T15:45:05Z

Jackie Smith:

Orientation: History of Social Forums

2014-08-25T17:01:40Z

Jackie Smith:

This page is meant to provide people new to the Social Forum process with some relatively short background material that can help provide some of the key pieces of the forum's history and an orientation to the major political debates in the forum. It also provides those working in the forum with documents that can be helpful to ongoing discussions.

*This [[Guide to USSF Communications]] provides tips on how to find information about USSF working groups, meetings, and background.

== '''The Road to a Third US Social Forum''' ==
*The 2nd US Social Forum in Detroit generated a [http://ggjalliance.org/system/files/PMA%20ActionPlanSummary-FINAL.pdf National Social Movement Agenda] that helped synthesize discussions at the 2nd USSF, identify concrete actions following the USSF, and that should guide the USSF work going forward. In particular, the preamble states:

::“Each one of us must dig deeper to understand each other's culture and history and to build respectful relationships across difference...We can realize our dreams to treat each other as equals and to build alliances and relationships across our commonalities and difference.”

:This statement is important as we work to build a more cohesive movement with real power to affect large-scale social transformation. We believe this is particularly urgent task for us at this moment of political, economic, and ecological crisis.

*The US Social Forum National Planning Committee and other leaders of grassroots organizations and networks [http://www.ussocialforum.net/node/477 met in Philadelphia] to discuss the road to the next US Social Forum. Participants in the meeting made the following recommendations to the USSF National Planning Committee:

:'''Recognizing that''' we are moving towards building a national convergence of a US Social Forum of a new type, and that this might take the form of a large-scale convergence in a single city or a decentralized forum held simultaneously in multiple cities, these consensus recommendations will be brought to the NPC for a formal decision.

::• PMAs or other local assemblies will be used to build towards and follow-up national USSF convergence.
::• We will organize some sort of national USSF event/activity/convergence in 2014.
::• Date of a national USSF convergence will be no later than 2015

To help build towards the next US Social Forum, we invite those in solidarity with the World Social Forum to join this work. [[Media: NPC_Membership_Criteria_and_Roles_and_Responsibilities.pdf | Click here]] to see how you can get involved.

== Background on the US and World Social Forums--History and Evolution of Thinking about Transformative Global Movement Building ==

*[http://www.ussocialforum.net/taxonomy/term/5 US Social Forum Updates]: The regular e-newsletter of the US Social Forum provides useful background and analyses of the political unity, debates, and strategic thinking about the US and World Social Forum process. In addition, readers can learn how different groups have engaged with the USSF process and developed projects that follow from social forum convergences.

*[[media: USSF_Perspectives_of_a_Movement_Book.pdf |''The United States Social Forum: Perspectives of a Movement'']] Book written by co-organizers of the first U.S. Social Forum. Edited by Marina Karides, Walda Katz-Fishman, Rose Brewer, Jerome Scott & Alice Lovelace.

*Guerrero, Michael Leon. 2012. "US Social Forum: What did we accomplish?" Pp. 364-387 in World Social Forum: Critical Explorations, vol. 3, edited by J. Sen and P. Waterman. New Delhi: Open World Publishers.
::This article provides an excellent overview of the history of the U.S. Social Forum process, written by Michael Leon Guerrero, who played an instrumental role in leading the first two USSFs. His article reports on the lessons from the first USSF in Atlanta and the challenges we continue to face following the 2nd USSF in Detroit. The achievements and lessons of the forums, political conditions in the United States, and relationships with international allies are summarized and analyzed.

*[http://www.alainet.org/active/63440 Sen, Jai. 2013. "The WSF over Thirteen Years: Learning by Doing?"] ALAI, América Latina en Movimiento
::This article is written by a member of the local organizing committee of the 2004 World Social Forum in Mumbai, India. It assesses some of the achievements and challenges of the World Social Forums, and what will be most interesting for U.S. readers is the particular importance Sen attributes to the USSF process. The USSF has, according to Sen, “turned the rules of the WSF upside down” to overcome a pattern whereby historically disadvantaged groups have remained marginalized in the WSF process.

*[http://www.organizingupgrade.com/index.php/blogs/maria-poblet-todo-el-pueblo-al-sueno/item/971-womens-rights-in-the-age-of-empire-poblet Reflections on Internationalist Solidarity], in Preparation for the 2013 World Social Forum in Tunisia by Maria Poblet

*[[Media: Cartography_of_the_future_2013.pdf | World Social Forum Cartography of the Future Thematic Discussion:]]--This report emerges from ongoing conversations in the WSF that seek to build upon the lessons from the WSF and other social movement convergences over the past decade. It considers the current political moment of crisis and how the WSF process can contribute to building the planetary citizenship needed for transforming the global economic and political order. As the document states, "We are in a planetary dispute for hegemony and our initiative has to be the contribution to create irreversible citizenship movements, with projects and ideas endowed with a mobilizing strength."

*[http://www.forumdesalternatives.org/en/is-the-world-social-forum-of-use-for-popular-struggles-are-the-social-forum-formulas-adequate-to-that-effect Is the World Social Forum of use for popular struggles? Are the social forum formulas adequate to that effect?] by Samir Amin

*[http://www.interfacejournal.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Interface-4-1-Della-Porta.pdf "Mobilizing against the crisis, mobilizing for “another democracy”: comparing two global waves of protest"] Donatella della Porta, ''Interface'' Journal (2012).

*[http://www.interfacejournal.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Interface-4-2-Smith.pdf "Connecting social movements and political moments: bringing movement building tools from global justice to Occupy Wall Street activism"] Jackie Smith, ''Interface'' Journal (2012).

*[http://frantzfanonfoundation-fondationfrantzfanon.com/article2092.html Report of the World Social Forum Future of the WSF Working Group:] and [http://pittcoalitionsworkshop.wikispaces.com/file/view/working+group+on+future+WSF+Monastir+Report+2012.pdf Working group on Future of WSF 2012] These documents reflects the current state of discussion and dialogue about how to address ongoing tensions in the WSF process over representation, leadership, and building a radically democratic and responsive movement for global transformation.

*[[Media: Smith_Doerr_Summary_Nov_2012_update.pdf‎ | Lessons from the US and World Social Forum Process:]] This short summary compares the practices of the US and European Social Forums to identify lessons about building radically democratic and inclusive spaces of movement-building.
::[[Media: 18_Smith_and_Doerr_with_References.pdf |Democratic Innovation in the U.S. and European Social Forums]], a more detailed analysis that is basis of above summary, from ''Handbook of World Social Forum Activism''.

*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/e/e1/WSF_as_Peacebuilding_Chapter_Smith_Burns_and_Miller.pdf The World Social Forum as Peacebuilding] in ''Globalization, Social Movements and Peacebuilding'' Edited by J. Smith and E. Verdeja, Syracuse University Press, 2013.

*[http://www.choike.org/2009/eng/informes/1557.html ''The World Social Forum: Challenging Empires''] Edited by Jai Sen, Anita Anand, Arturo Escobar, Peter Waterman

== '''Key Documents of the USSF process''' ==

*[[USSF Political Statements| USSF Political Unity]]

*[http://wiki.ussf2010.org/wiki/Documenting_and_Evaluating Additional Documentation and Evaluation of USSF 2010]

'''Ideas for Discussion'''

[[Supporting convergence around shared goals]]

Orientation: History of Social Forums

2014-08-25T17:00:11Z

Jackie Smith: /* Background on the US and World Social Forums--History and Evolution of Thinking about Transformative Global Movement Building */

This page is meant to provide people new to the Social Forum process with some relatively short background material that can help provide some of the key pieces of the forum's history and an orientation to the major political debates in the forum. It also provides those working in the forum with documents that can be helpful to ongoing discussions.

*This [[Guide to USSF Communications]] provides tips on how to find information about USSF working groups, meetings, and background.

== '''The Road to a Third US Social Forum''' ==
*The 2nd US Social Forum in Detroit generated a [http://ggjalliance.org/system/files/PMA%20ActionPlanSummary-FINAL.pdf National Social Movement Agenda] that helped synthesize discussions at the 2nd USSF, identify concrete actions following the USSF, and that should guide the USSF work going forward. In particular, the preamble states:

::“Each one of us must dig deeper to understand each other's culture and history and to build respectful relationships across difference...We can realize our dreams to treat each other as equals and to build alliances and relationships across our commonalities and difference.”

:This statement is important as we work to build a more cohesive movement with real power to affect large-scale social transformation. We believe this is particularly urgent task for us at this moment of political, economic, and ecological crisis.

*The US Social Forum National Planning Committee and other leaders of grassroots organizations and networks [http://www.ussocialforum.net/node/477 met in Philadelphia] to discuss the road to the next US Social Forum. Participants in the meeting made the following recommendations to the USSF National Planning Committee:

:'''Recognizing that''' we are moving towards building a national convergence of a US Social Forum of a new type, and that this might take the form of a large-scale convergence in a single city or a decentralized forum held simultaneously in multiple cities, these consensus recommendations will be brought to the NPC for a formal decision.

::• PMAs or other local assemblies will be used to build towards and follow-up national USSF convergence.
::• We will organize some sort of national USSF event/activity/convergence in 2014.
::• Date of a national USSF convergence will be no later than 2015

To help build towards the next US Social Forum, we invite those in solidarity with the World Social Forum to join this work. [[Media: NPC_Membership_Criteria_and_Roles_and_Responsibilities.pdf | Click here]] to see how you can get involved.

== Background on the US and World Social Forums--History and Evolution of Thinking about Transformative Global Movement Building ==

*[http://www.ussocialforum.net/taxonomy/term/5 US Social Forum Updates]: The regular e-newsletter of the US Social Forum provides useful background and analyses of the political unity, debates, and strategic thinking about the US and World Social Forum process. In addition, readers can learn how different groups have engaged with the USSF process and developed projects that follow from social forum convergences.

*[[media: USSF_Perspectives_of_a_Movement_Book.pdf |''The United States Social Forum: Perspectives of a Movement'']] Book written by co-organizers of the first U.S. Social Forum. Edited by Marina Karides, Walda Katz-Fishman, Rose Brewer, Jerome Scott & Alice Lovelace.

*Guerrero, Michael Leon. 2012. "US Social Forum: What did we accomplish?" Pp. 364-387 in World Social Forum: Critical Explorations, vol. 3, edited by J. Sen and P. Waterman. New Delhi: Open World Publishers.
::This article provides an excellent overview of the history of the U.S. Social Forum process, written by Michael Leon Guerrero, who played an instrumental role in leading the first two USSFs. His article reports on the lessons from the first USSF in Atlanta and the challenges we continue to face following the 2nd USSF in Detroit. The achievements and lessons of the forums, political conditions in the United States, and relationships with international allies are summarized and analyzed.

*[http://www.alainet.org/active/63440 Sen, Jai. 2013. "The WSF over Thirteen Years: Learning by Doing?"] ALAI, América Latina en Movimiento
::This article is written by a member of the local organizing committee of the 2004 World Social Forum in Mumbai, India. It assesses some of the achievements and challenges of the World Social Forums, and what will be most interesting for U.S. readers is the particular importance Sen attributes to the USSF process. The USSF has, according to Sen, “turned the rules of the WSF upside down” to overcome a pattern whereby historically disadvantaged groups have remained marginalized in the WSF process.

*[http://www.organizingupgrade.com/index.php/blogs/maria-poblet-todo-el-pueblo-al-sueno/item/971-womens-rights-in-the-age-of-empire-poblet Reflections on Internationalist Solidarity], in Preparation for the 2013 World Social Forum in Tunisia by Maria Poblet

*[[Media: Cartography_of_the_future_2013.pdf | World Social Forum Cartography of the Future Thematic Discussion:]]--This report emerges from ongoing conversations in the WSF that seek to build upon the lessons from the WSF and other social movement convergences over the past decade. It considers the current political moment of crisis and how the WSF process can contribute to building the planetary citizenship needed for transforming the global economic and political order. As the document states, "We are in a planetary dispute for hegemony and our initiative has to be the contribution to create irreversible citizenship movements, with projects and ideas endowed with a mobilizing strength."

*[http://www.forumdesalternatives.org/en/is-the-world-social-forum-of-use-for-popular-struggles-are-the-social-forum-formulas-adequate-to-that-effect Is the World Social Forum of use for popular struggles? Are the social forum formulas adequate to that effect?] by Samir Amin

*[http://www.interfacejournal.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Interface-4-1-Della-Porta.pdf "Mobilizing against the crisis, mobilizing for “another democracy”: comparing two global waves of protest"] Donatella della Porta, ''Interface'' Journal (2012).

*[http://www.interfacejournal.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Interface-4-2-Smith.pdf "Connecting social movements and political moments: bringing movement building tools from global justice to Occupy Wall Street activism"] Jackie Smith, ''Interface'' Journal (2012).

*[http://frantzfanonfoundation-fondationfrantzfanon.com/article2092.html Report of the World Social Forum Future of the WSF Working Group:] and [http://pittcoalitionsworkshop.wikispaces.com/file/view/working+group+on+future+WSF+Monastir+Report+2012.pdf Working group on Future of WSF 2012] These documents reflects the current state of discussion and dialogue about how to address ongoing tensions in the WSF process over representation, leadership, and building a radically democratic and responsive movement for global transformation.

*[[Media: Smith_Doerr_Summary_Nov_2012_update.pdf‎ | Lessons from the US and World Social Forum Process:]] This short summary compares the practices of the US and European Social Forums to identify lessons about building radically democratic and inclusive spaces of movement-building.
::[[Media: 18_Smith_and_Doerr_with_References.pdf |Democratic Innovation in the U.S. and European Social Forums, from ''Handbook of World Social Forum Activism'']].

*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/e/e1/WSF_as_Peacebuilding_Chapter_Smith_Burns_and_Miller.pdf The World Social Forum as Peacebuilding] in ''Globalization, Social Movements and Peacebuilding'' Edited by J. Smith and E. Verdeja, Syracuse University Press, 2013.

*[http://www.choike.org/2009/eng/informes/1557.html ''The World Social Forum: Challenging Empires''] Edited by Jai Sen, Anita Anand, Arturo Escobar, Peter Waterman

== '''Key Documents of the USSF process''' ==

*[[USSF Political Statements| USSF Political Unity]]

*[http://wiki.ussf2010.org/wiki/Documenting_and_Evaluating Additional Documentation and Evaluation of USSF 2010]

'''Ideas for Discussion'''

[[Supporting convergence around shared goals]]

Orientation: History of Social Forums

2014-08-25T16:54:56Z

Jackie Smith: /* Background on the US and World Social Forums--History and Evolution of Thinking about Transformative Global Movement Building */

This page is meant to provide people new to the Social Forum process with some relatively short background material that can help provide some of the key pieces of the forum's history and an orientation to the major political debates in the forum. It also provides those working in the forum with documents that can be helpful to ongoing discussions.

*This [[Guide to USSF Communications]] provides tips on how to find information about USSF working groups, meetings, and background.

== '''The Road to a Third US Social Forum''' ==
*The 2nd US Social Forum in Detroit generated a [http://ggjalliance.org/system/files/PMA%20ActionPlanSummary-FINAL.pdf National Social Movement Agenda] that helped synthesize discussions at the 2nd USSF, identify concrete actions following the USSF, and that should guide the USSF work going forward. In particular, the preamble states:

::“Each one of us must dig deeper to understand each other's culture and history and to build respectful relationships across difference...We can realize our dreams to treat each other as equals and to build alliances and relationships across our commonalities and difference.”

:This statement is important as we work to build a more cohesive movement with real power to affect large-scale social transformation. We believe this is particularly urgent task for us at this moment of political, economic, and ecological crisis.

*The US Social Forum National Planning Committee and other leaders of grassroots organizations and networks [http://www.ussocialforum.net/node/477 met in Philadelphia] to discuss the road to the next US Social Forum. Participants in the meeting made the following recommendations to the USSF National Planning Committee:

:'''Recognizing that''' we are moving towards building a national convergence of a US Social Forum of a new type, and that this might take the form of a large-scale convergence in a single city or a decentralized forum held simultaneously in multiple cities, these consensus recommendations will be brought to the NPC for a formal decision.

::• PMAs or other local assemblies will be used to build towards and follow-up national USSF convergence.
::• We will organize some sort of national USSF event/activity/convergence in 2014.
::• Date of a national USSF convergence will be no later than 2015

To help build towards the next US Social Forum, we invite those in solidarity with the World Social Forum to join this work. [[Media: NPC_Membership_Criteria_and_Roles_and_Responsibilities.pdf | Click here]] to see how you can get involved.

== Background on the US and World Social Forums--History and Evolution of Thinking about Transformative Global Movement Building ==

*[http://www.ussocialforum.net/taxonomy/term/5 US Social Forum Updates]: The regular e-newsletter of the US Social Forum provides useful background and analyses of the political unity, debates, and strategic thinking about the US and World Social Forum process. In addition, readers can learn how different groups have engaged with the USSF process and developed projects that follow from social forum convergences.

*[[media: USSF_Perspectives_of_a_Movement_Book.pdf |''The United States Social Forum: Perspectives of a Movement'']] Book written by co-organizers of the first U.S. Social Forum. Edited by Marina Karides, Walda Katz-Fishman, Rose Brewer, Jerome Scott & Alice Lovelace.

*Guerrero, Michael Leon. 2012. "US Social Forum: What did we accomplish?" Pp. 364-387 in World Social Forum: Critical Explorations, vol. 3, edited by J. Sen and P. Waterman. New Delhi: Open World Publishers.
::This article provides an excellent overview of the history of the U.S. Social Forum process, written by Michael Leon Guerrero, who played an instrumental role in leading the first two USSFs. His article reports on the lessons from the first USSF in Atlanta and the challenges we continue to face following the 2nd USSF in Detroit. The achievements and lessons of the forums, political conditions in the United States, and relationships with international allies are summarized and analyzed.

*[http://www.alainet.org/active/63440 Sen, Jai. 2013. "The WSF over Thirteen Years: Learning by Doing?"] ALAI, América Latina en Movimiento
::This article is written by a member of the local organizing committee of the 2004 World Social Forum in Mumbai, India. It assesses some of the achievements and challenges of the World Social Forums, and what will be most interesting for U.S. readers is the particular importance Sen attributes to the USSF process. The USSF has, according to Sen, “turned the rules of the WSF upside down” to overcome a pattern whereby historically disadvantaged groups have remained marginalized in the WSF process.

*[http://www.organizingupgrade.com/index.php/blogs/maria-poblet-todo-el-pueblo-al-sueno/item/971-womens-rights-in-the-age-of-empire-poblet Reflections on Internationalist Solidarity], in Preparation for the 2013 World Social Forum in Tunisia by Maria Poblet

*[[Media: Cartography_of_the_future_2013.pdf | World Social Forum Cartography of the Future Thematic Discussion:]]--This report emerges from ongoing conversations in the WSF that seek to build upon the lessons from the WSF and other social movement convergences over the past decade. It considers the current political moment of crisis and how the WSF process can contribute to building the planetary citizenship needed for transforming the global economic and political order. As the document states, "We are in a planetary dispute for hegemony and our initiative has to be the contribution to create irreversible citizenship movements, with projects and ideas endowed with a mobilizing strength."

*[http://www.forumdesalternatives.org/en/is-the-world-social-forum-of-use-for-popular-struggles-are-the-social-forum-formulas-adequate-to-that-effect Is the World Social Forum of use for popular struggles? Are the social forum formulas adequate to that effect?] by Samir Amin

*[http://www.interfacejournal.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Interface-4-1-Della-Porta.pdf "Mobilizing against the crisis, mobilizing for “another democracy”: comparing two global waves of protest"] Donatella della Porta, ''Interface'' Journal (2012).

*[http://www.interfacejournal.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Interface-4-2-Smith.pdf "Connecting social movements and political moments: bringing movement building tools from global justice to Occupy Wall Street activism"] Jackie Smith, ''Interface'' Journal (2012).

*[http://frantzfanonfoundation-fondationfrantzfanon.com/article2092.html Report of the World Social Forum Future of the WSF Working Group:] and [http://pittcoalitionsworkshop.wikispaces.com/file/view/working+group+on+future+WSF+Monastir+Report+2012.pdf Working group on Future of WSF 2012] These documents reflects the current state of discussion and dialogue about how to address ongoing tensions in the WSF process over representation, leadership, and building a radically democratic and responsive movement for global transformation.

*[[Media: Smith_Doerr_Summary_Nov_2012_update.pdf‎ | Lessons from the US and World Social Forum Process:]] This analysis compares the practices of the US and European Social Forums to identify lessons about building radically democratic and inclusive spaces of movement-building.

*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/e/e1/WSF_as_Peacebuilding_Chapter_Smith_Burns_and_Miller.pdf The World Social Forum as Peacebuilding] in ''Globalization, Social Movements and Peacebuilding'' Edited by J. Smith and E. Verdeja, Syracuse University Press, 2013.

*[http://www.choike.org/2009/eng/informes/1557.html ''The World Social Forum: Challenging Empires''] Edited by Jai Sen, Anita Anand, Arturo Escobar, Peter Waterman

== '''Key Documents of the USSF process''' ==

*[[USSF Political Statements| USSF Political Unity]]

*[http://wiki.ussf2010.org/wiki/Documenting_and_Evaluating Additional Documentation and Evaluation of USSF 2010]

'''Ideas for Discussion'''

[[Supporting convergence around shared goals]]

Social Media Policies and Resources

2014-08-20T21:22:15Z

Jackie Smith: Created page with "PAGE IN PROGRESS DRAFT *******DRAFT SOCIAL MEDIA POLICIES AT: https://pad.riseup.net/p/USSF_Social_Media_Policies I had a lot of conversation with my two social media expe..."

PAGE IN PROGRESS DRAFT

*******DRAFT SOCIAL MEDIA POLICIES AT: https://pad.riseup.net/p/USSF_Social_Media_Policies

I had a lot of conversation with my two social media experts, Sean Wiggs and Lara Solomon-Schuchat, both of whom work in tech marketing professionally and who have been the driving force behind the success of the Occupy Seattle page. Through their leadership, they have managed to avoid many of the problems associated with group admined pages such as highjacks and offensive content.
In addition to having a very broad reach with the page, they also have a 'Guest Admin' program because they were getting a lot of requests for training. They have trained page admins all over the world, and some USSF folks might want to consider taking advantage of that learning opportunity. Sean has offered to run a video conference EdgeRank & 'how to create viral content' training for us, and both he and Lara have offered to participate in our process to help us get it running smoothly and make better use of the page.
This is the simplified version of guidelines that we came up with. I used a similar (but even more simplified) version for a small group, and found it to be rather easy and effective.
Roles:
Admins: can change page roles, highly trusted not to highjack page, understand edgerank, includes same responsibilities as Editors, should be at least three, must still allow a vote to change any page roles, changes to admin roles require a majority
Editors: most common role, can add & edit content, respond as page, etc, must have good grammar/editorial skills, ability to see & respond to problem threads & commenters, changes to Editor roles require a 25% approval
Creator: participate in content creation on group page but do not have any main page access, generally meant as a trial period to become Editor or for those that want to create content but lack high quality editorial skills or FB know-how, anyone can add a Creator but must allow the add to be blocked (create post in group for three days notifying before making addition)
Moderator/Advertiser: N/A
Analyst: less engaged user who has exceptionally high edgerank understanding but is not interested in participating in content creation or moderation, set and chosen by Admins who vet for social media expertise

Create private FB group page for content creation

Admins & Editors post proposed content into FB group page

15% of admins/editors/creators must LIKE post in order to ok it for posting (i.e. if there are 10 admins, the post must get at least 2 LIKES in addition to original poster in order to go on main page)

Admins can institute Skeleton Crew process during times when there is not enough activity to create content for the next three days (i.e. if there is not enough approved content for at least 12 future posts), Skeleton Crew process can be blocked but should also not last longer than one week, Admin sets Skeleton Crew process (i.e. for the next week only 1Like is necessary to post, etc)

Anyone can block a post but must provide a reason

suggested edits should be placed in the comments--all grammatical edits must be accepted, but others do not have to be unless it would result in a block (i.e. ‘Unless this post is framed in xyz fashion, I would block this post because...’)

Content Creation Processes:
LIKE: post as-is
LIKE w/Editorial Comment: change grammar/minor edits
Block: do not post
Reframe: to avoid Block
Pause: post must be fact-checked by at least 2 people (other than original poster) before posting
'Ninja Posting', posting without going through the approval process, is grounds for immediate dismissal as an admin.
In keeping with the USSF Tech Principles around No Corporate Advertising, no for-profit social media logos or promotion will be allowed on any USSF communications including ussocialforum.net.
It's suggested that a few people are assigned to creating Twitter content from FB posts rather than linking the handle because linking doesn't allow for the strongest possible message to go out on Twitter.

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-08-20T11:36:02Z

Jackie Smith: /* About */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*Comms-tech email: comms-tech@ussocialforum.net
*Newsletter: newsletter@ussocialforum.net

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
*::[[Social Media Policies and Resources]]
*::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Thurs. August 28 4:00-5:30 PM Eastern time
:::Call-in number: Call-in # 641-715-3200 (Access #401123)

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

[[Past meeting notes]]

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-08-20T11:31:52Z

Jackie Smith: /* Meetings & Notes */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
*::[[Social Media Policies and Resources]]
*::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Thurs. August 28 4:00-5:30 PM Eastern time
:::Call-in number: Call-in # 641-715-3200 (Access #401123)

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

[[Past meeting notes]]

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Past meeting notes

2014-08-14T21:07:18Z

Jackie Smith:

* [[media:Editorial_Meeting_August_13_2014.pdf‎| Communications task force August 14 2014]]
* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_30_NOTES.pdf‎| Communications task force July 30 2014]]
* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_16_2014.pdf‎| Communications task force July 16 2014]]
* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_9_2014.pdf| Communications Task Force July 9 2014]]
* [[March 20, 2014 Meeting Notes]]

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

* [[March 6, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:Feb_24_2014.pdf |February 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:September_comms_tech_meeting_notes.pdf |September 2013 Meeting Notes]]
:[[Thurs. July 18 2013]]

*Note: During this time frame, working group co-chairs Joseph, Roberto, and Jackie worked to sustain ongoing communications work (newsletter) and assess how best to organize our work at the USSF-3 takes shape. We did not hold general work group meetings

:[[Wed. March 5 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 27 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 20 2013]]
:'''Wed. Feb.13, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb132013
:'''Tues. Feb. 4, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb052013
:'''Tuesday Jan. 29''': Updates on USSF planning, newsletter, website, expanded proposal Notes at: http://piratepad.netcommtechjan292013

:'''Tuesday Jan.22''': Updates on task forces, Volunteers needed for newsletter editorial collective, website, planning USSF "expanded," and to help with mobilizing resources to do the important communications and technology work of the US Social Forum. Contact Jackie or Joseph if you can help! [[Notes details here]]

:'''Monday January 7:
::'''MEETING SUMMARY:''' The main goal of this meeting was to summarize some of the past work and experience of the Communications and Technology working group/s of the US Social Forum and summarize the three main task forces that are now active. This working group is a result of the merging of what used to be two separate working groups, and our work is to mesh the social and technical work of communications for movement building. Our current work is supporting the US Social Forum strategy meeting taking place March 8-10 in New Orleans. There will also be a satellite meeting in Philadelphia that combines a Northeast Regional Peoples Movement Assembly with sessions that will bring together participants in Philadelphia and New Orleans. We will also livestream segments of these meetings. The three main task forces are the Newsletter, Website, and "March meeting Expanded" task force. Details and task force contacts are listed in these [http://piratepad.net/commtechjan72013 notes].

:[[Monday Dec. 17]]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

'''[[Upcoming Meeting Agenda]]'''

File:Editorial Meeting August 13 2014.pdf

2014-08-14T21:06:14Z

Jackie Smith:

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-08-13T21:04:30Z

Jackie Smith: /* Task Forces */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
*::[[Social Media Policies and Resources]]
*::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. August 12 4:00-5:30 PM Eastern time
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

[[Past meeting notes]]

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-08-13T21:03:12Z

Jackie Smith: /* Task Forces */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Social Media Policies and Resources]]
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. August 12 4:00-5:30 PM Eastern time
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

[[Past meeting notes]]

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Past meeting notes

2014-07-30T22:03:05Z

Jackie Smith:

* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_30_NOTES.pdf‎| Communications task force July 30 2014]]
* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_16_2014.pdf‎| Communications task force July 16 2014]]
* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_9_2014.pdf| Communications Task Force July 9 2014]]
* [[March 20, 2014 Meeting Notes]]

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

* [[March 6, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:Feb_24_2014.pdf |February 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:September_comms_tech_meeting_notes.pdf |September 2013 Meeting Notes]]
:[[Thurs. July 18 2013]]

*Note: During this time frame, working group co-chairs Joseph, Roberto, and Jackie worked to sustain ongoing communications work (newsletter) and assess how best to organize our work at the USSF-3 takes shape. We did not hold general work group meetings

:[[Wed. March 5 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 27 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 20 2013]]
:'''Wed. Feb.13, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb132013
:'''Tues. Feb. 4, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb052013
:'''Tuesday Jan. 29''': Updates on USSF planning, newsletter, website, expanded proposal Notes at: http://piratepad.netcommtechjan292013

:'''Tuesday Jan.22''': Updates on task forces, Volunteers needed for newsletter editorial collective, website, planning USSF "expanded," and to help with mobilizing resources to do the important communications and technology work of the US Social Forum. Contact Jackie or Joseph if you can help! [[Notes details here]]

:'''Monday January 7:
::'''MEETING SUMMARY:''' The main goal of this meeting was to summarize some of the past work and experience of the Communications and Technology working group/s of the US Social Forum and summarize the three main task forces that are now active. This working group is a result of the merging of what used to be two separate working groups, and our work is to mesh the social and technical work of communications for movement building. Our current work is supporting the US Social Forum strategy meeting taking place March 8-10 in New Orleans. There will also be a satellite meeting in Philadelphia that combines a Northeast Regional Peoples Movement Assembly with sessions that will bring together participants in Philadelphia and New Orleans. We will also livestream segments of these meetings. The three main task forces are the Newsletter, Website, and "March meeting Expanded" task force. Details and task force contacts are listed in these [http://piratepad.net/commtechjan72013 notes].

:[[Monday Dec. 17]]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

'''[[Upcoming Meeting Agenda]]'''

File:Editorial meeting July 30 NOTES.pdf

2014-07-30T22:01:36Z

Jackie Smith:

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-30T22:00:46Z

Jackie Smith: /* Meetings & Notes */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. August 12 4:00-5:30 PM Eastern time
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

[[Past meeting notes]]

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Past meeting notes

2014-07-19T14:28:36Z

Jackie Smith:

* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_16_2014.pdf‎| Communications task force July 16 2014]]
* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_9_2014.pdf| Communications Task Force July 9 2014]]
* [[March 20, 2014 Meeting Notes]]

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

* [[March 6, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:Feb_24_2014.pdf |February 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:September_comms_tech_meeting_notes.pdf |September 2013 Meeting Notes]]
:[[Thurs. July 18 2013]]

*Note: During this time frame, working group co-chairs Joseph, Roberto, and Jackie worked to sustain ongoing communications work (newsletter) and assess how best to organize our work at the USSF-3 takes shape. We did not hold general work group meetings

:[[Wed. March 5 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 27 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 20 2013]]
:'''Wed. Feb.13, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb132013
:'''Tues. Feb. 4, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb052013
:'''Tuesday Jan. 29''': Updates on USSF planning, newsletter, website, expanded proposal Notes at: http://piratepad.netcommtechjan292013

:'''Tuesday Jan.22''': Updates on task forces, Volunteers needed for newsletter editorial collective, website, planning USSF "expanded," and to help with mobilizing resources to do the important communications and technology work of the US Social Forum. Contact Jackie or Joseph if you can help! [[Notes details here]]

:'''Monday January 7:
::'''MEETING SUMMARY:''' The main goal of this meeting was to summarize some of the past work and experience of the Communications and Technology working group/s of the US Social Forum and summarize the three main task forces that are now active. This working group is a result of the merging of what used to be two separate working groups, and our work is to mesh the social and technical work of communications for movement building. Our current work is supporting the US Social Forum strategy meeting taking place March 8-10 in New Orleans. There will also be a satellite meeting in Philadelphia that combines a Northeast Regional Peoples Movement Assembly with sessions that will bring together participants in Philadelphia and New Orleans. We will also livestream segments of these meetings. The three main task forces are the Newsletter, Website, and "March meeting Expanded" task force. Details and task force contacts are listed in these [http://piratepad.net/commtechjan72013 notes].

:[[Monday Dec. 17]]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

'''[[Upcoming Meeting Agenda]]'''

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-19T14:28:00Z

Jackie Smith: /* Meetings & Notes */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. July 30 4:00-5:30 PM Eastern time
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

[[Past meeting notes]]

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-17T11:12:56Z

Jackie Smith: /* Meetings & Notes */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. July 30 4:00-5:30 PM Eastern time
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Past meeting notes

2014-07-17T11:02:47Z

Jackie Smith:

* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_16_2014.pdf‎| Communications task force July 16 2014]]
* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_9_2014.pdf| Communications Task Force July 9 2014]]
* [[March 20, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
* [[March 6, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:Feb_24_2014.pdf |February 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:September_comms_tech_meeting_notes.pdf |September 2013 Meeting Notes]]
:[[Thurs. July 18 2013]]

*Note: During this time frame, working group co-chairs Joseph, Roberto, and Jackie worked to sustain ongoing communications work (newsletter) and assess how best to organize our work at the USSF-3 takes shape. We did not hold general work group meetings

:[[Wed. March 5 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 27 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 20 2013]]
:'''Wed. Feb.13, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb132013
:'''Tues. Feb. 4, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb052013
:'''Tuesday Jan. 29''': Updates on USSF planning, newsletter, website, expanded proposal Notes at: http://piratepad.netcommtechjan292013

:'''Tuesday Jan.22''': Updates on task forces, Volunteers needed for newsletter editorial collective, website, planning USSF "expanded," and to help with mobilizing resources to do the important communications and technology work of the US Social Forum. Contact Jackie or Joseph if you can help! [[Notes details here]]

:'''Monday January 7:
::'''MEETING SUMMARY:''' The main goal of this meeting was to summarize some of the past work and experience of the Communications and Technology working group/s of the US Social Forum and summarize the three main task forces that are now active. This working group is a result of the merging of what used to be two separate working groups, and our work is to mesh the social and technical work of communications for movement building. Our current work is supporting the US Social Forum strategy meeting taking place March 8-10 in New Orleans. There will also be a satellite meeting in Philadelphia that combines a Northeast Regional Peoples Movement Assembly with sessions that will bring together participants in Philadelphia and New Orleans. We will also livestream segments of these meetings. The three main task forces are the Newsletter, Website, and "March meeting Expanded" task force. Details and task force contacts are listed in these [http://piratepad.net/commtechjan72013 notes].

:[[Monday Dec. 17]]

'''[[Upcoming Meeting Agenda]]'''

File:Editorial meeting July 16 2014.pdf

2014-07-17T11:02:04Z

Jackie Smith:

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-16T16:36:35Z

Jackie Smith: /* Background Resources & Links */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. July 16 4:00 PM Eastern time 4:00-5:30PM
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[[Media: FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

File:FRAMES.pdf

2014-07-16T16:33:40Z

Jackie Smith: uploaded a new version of "File:FRAMES.pdf"

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-16T16:31:58Z

Jackie Smith: /* Background Resources & Links */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. July 16 4:00 PM Eastern time 4:00-5:30PM
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==

'''Communications resources'''
:[Media:FRAMES.pdf|Strategies for framing effective messages]
:[http://www.storybasedstrategy.org/sites/smartmeme.drupalgardens.com/files/BattleofStoryWorksheet.pdf Battle of the Story Worksheet/ Center for Story Based Strategy]

:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-16T16:29:21Z

Jackie Smith: /* Meetings & Notes */

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. July 16 4:00 PM Eastern time 4:00-5:30PM
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 17 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==
:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

File:FRAMES.pdf

2014-07-16T16:28:31Z

Jackie Smith:

People's Movement Assemblies Points of Unity

2014-07-09T22:18:20Z

Jackie Smith: Created page with "The following People's Movement Assemblies have generated points of unity that we hope will contribute to a national and global conversation about our various struggles and chall…"

The following People's Movement Assemblies have generated points of unity that we hope will contribute to a national and global conversation about our various struggles and challenges and our visions for advancing movements for social and political transformation. To add to this list, please contact __________________.

== PMA on Surveillance, Technology and Communities of Color ==

:Detroit, Michigan (at Allied Media Conference)
:June 19, 2014
:'''Points of Unity:'''
::*The roots of surveillance are in systems of power and oppression, including white supremacy, capitalism, colonialism, sexism, ableism and homophobia.
::*Surveillance by government and corporations is a human rights violation.
::*Communities can collect, maintain and analyze their own data for their own protections.
::*Privacy is a human right and transparency is a government responsibility.

People’s Movement Assembly Working Group

2014-07-09T22:10:36Z

Jackie Smith:

== People’s Movement Assembly Working Group ==
This working group helps support and coordinate people's movement assemblies as we build towards the next US Social Forum and beyond. The aim of PMAs is to advance the USSF goal of building popular movements in this country and advancing our collective power.

'''Contacts'''
Working Group co-chairs: Jerome Scott (jerome @ ssbuilt.com), Project South (TBA)

[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/List_of_People%27s_Movement_Assemblies List of People's Movement Assemblies]

:[[People's Movement Assemblies Points of Unity]]

'''Meetings'''

'''Past Meeting Notes'''
<p>[[October 21, 2013]]</p>
<p>[[November 18, 2013]]</p>
<p>[[January 20, 2014]]</p>

'''Resources'''

PMA template with 3-pager handout:[[Media:Ussf3_pma_template_&_3-pager_handout_11.9.13.pdf‎]]

'''Links'''
[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/People%27s_Movement_Assembly_Guide A Guide to People's Movement Assemblies]

[http://www.peoplesmovementassembly.org/ People's Movement Assembly Website]: Provides a history of the PMA process, resources and reports from PMAs leading up to and following the 2nd USSF in Detroit.

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-09T22:04:53Z

Jackie Smith:

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''
::*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/2/24/Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf Overview of USSF Communications Tools]

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. July 9 4:00 PM Eastern time 4:00-5:30PM
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 10 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==
:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Past meeting notes

2014-07-09T21:49:12Z

Jackie Smith:

* [[media:Editorial_meeting_July_9_2014.pdf| Communications Task Force July 9 2014]]
* [[March 20, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
* [[March 6, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:Feb_24_2014.pdf |February 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[[media:September_comms_tech_meeting_notes.pdf |September 2013 Meeting Notes]]
:[[Thurs. July 18 2013]]

*Note: During this time frame, working group co-chairs Joseph, Roberto, and Jackie worked to sustain ongoing communications work (newsletter) and assess how best to organize our work at the USSF-3 takes shape. We did not hold general work group meetings

:[[Wed. March 5 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 27 2013]]
:[[Wed. Feb. 20 2013]]
:'''Wed. Feb.13, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb132013
:'''Tues. Feb. 4, 2013'''; Notes at: http://piratepad.net/commtechfeb052013
:'''Tuesday Jan. 29''': Updates on USSF planning, newsletter, website, expanded proposal Notes at: http://piratepad.netcommtechjan292013

:'''Tuesday Jan.22''': Updates on task forces, Volunteers needed for newsletter editorial collective, website, planning USSF "expanded," and to help with mobilizing resources to do the important communications and technology work of the US Social Forum. Contact Jackie or Joseph if you can help! [[Notes details here]]

:'''Monday January 7:
::'''MEETING SUMMARY:''' The main goal of this meeting was to summarize some of the past work and experience of the Communications and Technology working group/s of the US Social Forum and summarize the three main task forces that are now active. This working group is a result of the merging of what used to be two separate working groups, and our work is to mesh the social and technical work of communications for movement building. Our current work is supporting the US Social Forum strategy meeting taking place March 8-10 in New Orleans. There will also be a satellite meeting in Philadelphia that combines a Northeast Regional Peoples Movement Assembly with sessions that will bring together participants in Philadelphia and New Orleans. We will also livestream segments of these meetings. The three main task forces are the Newsletter, Website, and "March meeting Expanded" task force. Details and task force contacts are listed in these [http://piratepad.net/commtechjan72013 notes].

:[[Monday Dec. 17]]

'''[[Upcoming Meeting Agenda]]'''

File:Editorial meeting July 9 2014.pdf

2014-07-09T21:48:25Z

Jackie Smith:

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-07-05T12:30:09Z

Jackie Smith:

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''':
::'''Editorial Task Force''': Wed. July 9 4:00 PM Eastern time 4:00-5:30PM
:::Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 2000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/2000

::'''Web-Tech Task Force''':thursday, July 10 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm New York time
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jackie@mayfirst.org
'''''

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==
:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

List of People's Movement Assemblies

2014-06-27T10:45:04Z

Jackie Smith:

Many PMAs around the country are already in process.

'''2014 PMAs'''
*"Envisioning a New Constitution", Philly (August 9, 2014)
*[http://southtosouth.org/southern-movement-assembly-2012/ Southern Movement Assembly], lead organization [http://www.projectsouth.org Project South] (August 22-23, 2014)
*Environmental and Climate Justice People’s Movement Assembly, [http://freedom50.org/ Freedom Summer 50th Anniversary] Tougaloo College—Jackson, MS Thursday, June 26th, 3:15pm-6:30pm
*People's Social Forum, Ottawa, ON (August 23, 2014)
*Pacific Northwest Social Forum and Regional PMA, lead organization [https://foodjustice.org/ Community to Community], Portland, OR (Sept 27-29, 2014)
*"Envisioning a New Constitution", San Jose, CA (October 25, 2014)
*"Envisioning a New Constitution", Salt Lake City, UT (date to be determined)
*Appalachia PMA, lead organization [http://www.wvdawg.org/ Direct Action Welfare Group]
*Gentrification PMA, New York City (date to be determined)
*Louisville, KY Local PMAP
*Poverty Working Group PMAs/World Courts of Women Against Poverty, Midwest region and Southern region (follow-up from Western and Northeast region)
*May First Brooklyn PMA on technology, lead organization [https://mayfirst.org/ May First/ People Link]
*"Austerity, Precarity and the Changing Landscape of Higher Education" PMA Co-organized by [http://inosa.mayfirst.org/ International Network of Scholar Activists] and George Mason University Public Sociology Student Association. Friday October 17, 2014 4:00-8:00 PM Arlington, VA (Washington DC area).

'''Past PMAs'''
*[http://www.commondreams.org/view/2014/06/26-5 National Gathering and PMA on Surveillance, Technology and Communities of Color], (May First, Center for Media Justice, and Free Press) at [http://amc.alliedmedia.org/ Allied Media Conference], Detroit Michigan (June 19-22, 2014)
*[http://www.leftforum.org/ Left Forum], New York City (June 2014)
*[http://jacksonrising.wordpress.com/ Jackson Rising Conference], Jackson, MS (May 2014)
*SOA Watch Thematic PMA, Washington DC, lead organization [http://www.soaw.org/ SOA Watch] (April 2014)
*White Privilege Conference, Madison, WI (March 2014)
*[http://karani.wordpress.com/2014/06/14/farm-worker-assembly-builds-community-power-in-whatcom-county/ Farmworker PMA], Bellingham, WA (March 22, 2014)
*Global Climate Convergence, Chicago, IL (January 2014)
*Pacific NorthWest Social Forum (PNWSF), Bellingham, WA (January 2014)
*US Human Rights Network, Atlanta, GA (December 2013)
*SOA Watch, Ft. Benning, GA (November 2013)
*[http://afgj.org/tear-down-the-walls Tear Down the Walls], Tucson, AZ (November 2013)
*[http://southtosouth.org/southern-movement-assembly-2012/ Southern Movement Assembly III], Dothan, AL (August 30-31, 2013)
*[http://southtosouth.org/southern-movement-assembly-2012/ Southern Movement Assembly II], Jacksonville, FL (April 26-28, 2013)
*[http://southtosouth.org/southern-movement-assembly-2012/ Southern Movement Assembly], Lowndes County, AL (2012)

Read more about the [http://peoplesmovementassembly.org/ Peoples Movement Assembly History and Resources]

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-06-26T20:09:38Z

Jackie Smith:

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''

::*[[Media:Ideas_on_Polycentric_Social_Forum_November_2013.pdf|Communications and Technology Working Group Proposal for Polycentric USSF Structure]]

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''': '''TBA/ Task forces will meet separately'''.
::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jsmith1037@gmail.com
'''''
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==
:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

People's Movement Assembly Guide

2014-06-26T11:31:45Z

Jackie Smith:

== People's Movement Assemblies ==

People's Movement Assemblies (PMAs) begin from the observations that we can build a better world. Working together, we can create a world that respects the human rights of all human, nurtures creativity and health, promotes unity, solidarity and peace, and uses resources in a way that protects the earth and affirms life.

:'''*Click here for a [[list of People's Movement Assemblies]] and contact information.
'''

*[http://peoplesmovementassembly.org/sites/default/files/ASAMBLEA_DE_MOVIMIENTOS_SOCIALES_FINAL.pdf '''''Equipo Para la Organizacion''''']

At this historical moment, there is a growing sense of overwhelming crisis. We recognize that the money and other resources that have been swallowed up by militarization must be redirected to solve human needs – to protect the basic human needs of food, shelter, freedom of movement, freedom of speech, freedom from harm, and protection of Mother Earth, which nurtures and sustains all life.

We believe that we can create a new economic system. We can build an economic system that is not based in individual, corporate, or private ownership and does not exploit people, the planet, natural resources, or living beings but instead is based on principles of collectivity and sustains our communities. We must move aside old systems that have failed and create new ones that serve and are accountable to all people and all living beings.

PMAs are tools to help social movements govern themselves. They provide popular education tools to help groups:
*1) Develop analyses of problems affecting their communities and the root causes of those problems,
*2) Articulate visions of alternatives to the prevailing social and economic order
*3) Develop strategies and commitments to help realize these visions

The U.S. Social Forum builds upon what we refer to as the "PMA ''process''" which aims to integrate and develop syntheses of the political analyses, visions, and commitments that emerge from PMAs around the country (for more details see http://www.peoplesmovementassembly.org/). The USSF supports and facilitates local PMAs with the idea of helping convene a nation-wide conversation about what changes are needed in this country and how social movements might come together in more effective ways to realize alternative visions.

For more details see [http://peoplesmovementassembly.org/sites/default/files/PEOPLES_MOVEMENT_ASSEMBLY_ORGANIZING_KIT_FINAL.pdf People's Movement Assembly Organizing Kit]
*To get involved in the USSF PMA organizing work,
::[[Directory of PMAs |Find a local or regional PMA organizing team near you!]]
::[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/People%E2%80%99s_Movement_Assembly_Working_Group join the PMA working group].

== Peoples Movement Assembly Political & Popular Education Tool ==

'''Why a Peoples Movement Assembly?'''
• To begin and deepen our political discussion
• To help us understand better the long haul struggle we are involved in
• To help us better plan our political work as integrally connected to day-to-day activity and struggles we are already part of
• To answer the question: “How does this political analysis fit into the work we are doing on the ground?”

'''Consciousness, Vision & Strategy Activity'''

:Small groups (3-8 people depending on size of large group and time)
• Groups will do the following “card” activities and report backs.
• After each activity groups will answer the “framing” questions for that section and report back.
• Time needed – 3 hours (can adjust times if needed, do as 2-3 separate mini-workshops)
:2 sets of cards per group and blanks, butcher block & tape (see below for cards)
• Cards represent key elements in society
• Cards can be tailored to particular organizations’ needs
• Blanks for groups to add anything they think is missing
• Organize the cards in terms of priorities indicated below on butcher block paper and post for report backs.

'''Facilitation''': The following [[Guidelines for working together]] are helpful to keep in mind when working with diverse groups. Preparing facilitation team for your PMA is helpful to ensuring effective and productive conversations.

:Part 1: Consciousness: Analysis of the way things are today at the root cause of our problems
:Discuss (in small groups if applicable)
::*Identify basic [[elements of society]] and print on cards that are arranged by groups to show current priorities in your communities and workplaces (30 minutes)
::*The 'way things are' --list on post-it notes. Place notes on one wall and have groups report back. Compare similarities and differences, etc. (5 min.)

::*Answer questions on root causes of problems and report back (20 minutes discuss/ 5 minutes report back)
1. Who holds power?
2. How did they get that power?
3. What are the most profound impacts of their power on your communities and workplaces, in your campaigns and day-to-day work?
4. Why are the rich getting richer, the poor getting poorer, and the middle getting squeezed?
5. What role has white supremacy played in reinforcing the power and inequalities seen in our society [DATA]

Recommended- if the group has time, some sort of [ritual activity] to allow group to grieve, articulate and confront anger and hurt, purge...

:'''Part 2 – Vision: What we want. We’ve won – what does society look like now?'''

• Organize these elements of society (cards) in the priority we want them in when we have won. (30 minutes)
• Post all the “what we want” sheets on one wall and have groups report back. Compare similarities and differences, etc. (5 minutes per group)

:Answer questions and report back. (20 minutes and 5 minute report backs)
1. Who is making decisions about questions that affect your communities and workplaces, in your campaigns and day-to-day work?
2. With these people making the decisions, how are things different?
3. What does economic and social equality look like (in your communities & workplaces, throughout the U.S., globally)?

:'''Part 3 – Strategy: How will we get from the way things are today to what we want?
'''
:Answer questions and report back. (30 minutes and 5 minute report backs)
1. What is your action agenda to make your vision a reality? Short term, medium term, long term?
2. What strategies do you use to build toward your group’s vision?
3. What relation of forces is powerful enough to change who is in power and how our economy and society are organized?
4. What prevents us from forming these kinds of relations in our day-to-day work and in our movement?
5. How do we overcome these obstacles to build a transformative movement within our day-to-day work? How does our day-to-day work connect to a national movement for transformation?

'''Cross-cutting themes'''

How do race, nationality, gender, sexuality, age, and other differences impact all of these questions?

=====================
[[Media: Sample_PMA_on_Poverty.pdf | Sample PMA on Poverty]]
[[Media: PMA_Eval_Form.pdf |PMA Evaluation Form]]

'''[[Resources for PMAs]]'''

[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/a/a8/PMA_Synthesis_Report_Braggs.pdf 2010 Synthesis of results]--The PMA ''process'' aims to both create spaces where local and regional gatherings can come together to analyze the political context and vision paths towards change and to integrate the conversations held in different PMAs across the country into a larger national discussion. In this sense PMAs are not one-off meetings but rather part of larger, ongoing conversation that leads towards and helps inform a national convening of the United States Social Forum.

USSF Resources Page

2014-06-25T15:03:04Z

Jackie Smith:

; Help us develop this resource page. Please send your suggestions of material to writers@ussf2010.org

; About Detroit: Meet our Hosts & our Host City

Detroit-based organizers are working hard to welcome activists from around the country and the world to their city, which is the scene of much hardship and struggle but also of beauty, hope, and resistance. An important goal of the USSF is to help participants better understand the struggles of Detroiters while we learn about and get inspired by their work to make another Detroit happen. USSF organizers want participants to help others learn about Detroit and its people, and their connections to the wider economic and political structures we're all working to change.

Here are some resources on the great city that will make history in June 2010:

* [[Tom Stephens]], "[[Ghost Dancing in Detroit]]" --Where We're Coming From
* [[Steve Babson]], ''[http://books.google.com/books?id=_2J3YzdEgOAC&dq=babson+working+detroit&printsec=frontcover&source=bl&ots=ziLffyrbtF&sig=dvwlKDovL2UxyJRZq66iNarj4N8&hl=en&ei=cY55SoyaCZGoMN-osKMO&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1#v=onepage&q=&f=false Working Detroit: The Making of a Union Town]'' (1986, Wayne State University Press)
* [[Michael Chanan and George Steinmetz]], ''[http://www.detroitruinofacity.com/detroit%20home.html "Detroit: Ruin of a City"]'' (DVD)
* [http://www.southendpress.org/2004/items/''Detroit: I Do Mind Dying'']
* [http://icarusfilms.com/new2003/fin.html ''Finally Got the News'' (DVD)]
* [[Media:Reading_Rivera_Wylie_Kellerman_2010.pdf | "Reading Rivera: Resurrection and Remembering in Post-Industrial Detroit" by Bill Wylie-Kellerman]]

* [http://www.ussf2010.org/node/17 '''Detroit Local Organizing Committee''']
The Detroit Local Organizing Committee (DLOC) is made up of dozens of grassroots social movement organizations and activists from across southeast Michigan. In conjunction with the five anchors organizations--Michigan Welfare Rights Organization (MWRO), East Michigan Environmental Action Council (EMEAC), Centro Obrero de Detroit, Southeast Michigan Jobs with Justice, and Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice (DWEJ)--they are responsible for logistical organizing for USSF II Detroit in June 2010.

; The United States Social Forum

* [http://stores.lulu.com/changemaker ''The United States Social Forum: Perspectives of a Movement''] Edited by the USSF Book Committee:Marina Karides, Walda Katz-Fishman, Rose M. Brewer, Jerome Scott, and Alice Lovelace

* [http://books.google.com/books?id=bCqFhWCrgJ4C&pg=PA88&lpg=PA88&dq=blau+karides+us+social+forum&source=bl&ots=Qb8JfVc1WS&sig=vQts9CGyVJZq_EhQkC9triGJ8V8&hl=en&ei=2o72S4z1NYSyNs-P9IMI&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CAoQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=blau%20karides%20us%20social%20forum&f=false ''The World and US Social Forums: A Better World Is Possible and Necessary''] Edited by Judity Blau and Marina Karides

* [http://www.nd.edu/~jsmith40/JurisIntentionality.pdf "Spaces of Intentionality: Race, Class and Horizontality in the U.S. Social Forum"] Jeffrey Juris, ''Mobilization'' 13(4) 2008:353-372.

* [[Media:Smith_et_al_USSF_In_Context_Moby_2008.pdf‎ | "We are the Ones We've been Waiting For: The US Social Forum in Context"]] ''Mobilization'' 13(4) 2008:373-394.
: This article analyzes observations by a team of more than 20 observers (students and more senior researchers) attending the US Social Forum in 2007.

; The World Social Forum

* [http://www.paradigmpublishers.com/Books/BookDetail.aspx?productID=167980 ''Global Democracy and the World Social Forums'']
: This primer on the World Social Forums provides an accessible overview of the first 8 World Social Forums and the accompanying regional, national, and local social forums. '''Note:''' All royalties from sales of this book go to support the work of [http://www.ggjalliance.org/ Grassroots Global Justice] and the [http://ussf2010.org US Social Forum].

* [http://www.nd.edu/~jsmith40/Velitchkova.pdf "Windows on the Ninth World Social Forum in Belem"] Ana Velitchkova, Austin Choi-Fitzpatrick, and Jackie Smith ''Societies without Borders'' 4 (2009)193-208.
: This essay provides three observers perspectives on the 2009 World Social Forum, examining relations between social movements, political parties, and governments, the role of the Social Movement Assembly in helping build a global "movement of movements," and the efforts to strengthen connections between local settings and the World Social Forums through "Belem expanded," which used Skype and other technologies to connect people around the world to the happenings in Belem, Brazil.

* Observation research at the [[Media:ESF_Observation_Summary_FIN.pdf | European Social Forum]] in 2004.
: This report analyzes evidence collected by a team of observers attending the European Social Forum in London in 2004. The team helped pioneer a strategy for doing "collaborative ethnography" at the Social Forums as a way to overcome the limitations of individual researchers to analyze and assess the many activities taking place simultaneously in the Social Forum spaces.

File:Reading Rivera Wylie Kellerman 2010.pdf

2014-06-25T14:59:41Z

Jackie Smith:

E-mail privacy and security

2014-06-16T15:11:49Z

Jackie Smith:

All Gmail users have one thing in common: '''''The NSA can read your email'''''.

:Email is among the most important activist communications tools and Google's Gmail program is the most popular email program among us.
It's free, easy to use and reliable. It's also one of the NSA's most important data collection devices. It turns over your email

:Google routinely turns over user data from email to the NSA either after court orders or through NSA capture devices and strategies in other countries. This information is then filtered by the NSA to extract "investigation-relevant" information and the government won't tell us what is "relevant".

This means that, because you are an activist, some of your email is being captured and analyzed by the NSA when you use gmail.

It filters and analyzes your data for marketing: While it may not be happy the NSA is taking data from its servers, Google is happy to take your data for its marketing. Since your email is on Gmail servers, Google can analyze it, filter it, use it for marketing and design your email display pages to plug certain products based on that research. That's not why you use email and it shouldn't be what an email provider does.

It limits your privacy options and protections: Gmail makes using encryption almost impossible and, with its webmail system, it actually keeps your email on its own servers. You have no control over your own email.

There are options. Your email doesn't have to be a spying device. You can enhance the protection for your email using a few easy steps:

*1 -- Use a privacy-supporting provider and, when security is needed, full encryption. Make sure your provider supports encryption before you open an account with them. Avoid corporate free services; they will give up your information without resistance. The two movement providers of these services are [https://help.riseup.net/ Rise-Up], the free (or donation-based) email provider and us at [https://mayfirst.org/ May First/People Link], the Internet's left-wing membership organization.

*2 -- On sensitive email, avoid using "quoted content" in your response. You're protected but your correspondent might not be and, if that person is using Gmail (for example), and they quote your email when answering you, the government has now defeated your attempts to secure your communications.

*3 -- Ask the people you work and communicate with to not use Gmail.
Using Gmail is foolhardy but using Gmail to communicate with a person who has left it for privacy reasons is downright irresponsible.

*4 -- Avoid using cellphones as your primary email client. Most cell phone companies use Google as their email partner and, no matter who your provider is, they will probably filter the email through Google...which is the same thing as using Gmail.

*5 -- Get an email client and do not rely on webmail. Email clients, like [http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/thunderbird/ Thunderbird], give you options about where to store email and how to use it. Webmail stores your email on a server and limits those options.

- --
Alfredo López

Coordinator, Outreach and Communications Work Group May First/People Link https://mayfirst.org

E-mail privacy and security

2014-06-16T15:10:35Z

Jackie Smith: Created page with "All Gmail users have one thing in common! :The NSA can read your email. :Email is among the most important activist communications tools and Google's Gmail program is the most …"

All Gmail users have one thing in common!

:The NSA can read your email.

:Email is among the most important activist communications tools and Google's Gmail program is the most popular email program among us.
It's free, easy to use and reliable. It's also one of the NSA's most important data collection devices. It turns over your email

:Google routinely turns over user data from email to the NSA either after court orders or through NSA capture devices and strategies in other countries. This information is then filtered by the NSA to extract "investigation-relevant" information and the government won't tell us what is "relevant".

This means that, because you are an activist, some of your email is being captured and analyzed by the NSA when you use gmail.

It filters and analyzes your data for marketing: While it may not be happy the NSA is taking data from its servers, Google is happy to take your data for its marketing. Since your email is on Gmail servers, Google can analyze it, filter it, use it for marketing and design your email display pages to plug certain products based on that research. That's not why you use email and it shouldn't be what an email provider does.

It limits your privacy options and protections: Gmail makes using encryption almost impossible and, with its webmail system, it actually keeps your email on its own servers. You have no control over your own email.

There are options. Your email doesn't have to be a spying device. You can enhance the protection for your email using a few easy steps:

*1 -- Use a privacy-supporting provider and, when security is needed, full encryption. Make sure your provider supports encryption before you open an account with them. Avoid corporate free services; they will give up your information without resistance. The two movement providers of these services are https://help.riseup.net/ Rise-Up], the free (or donation-based) email provider and us at [https://mayfirst.org/ May First/People Link], the Internet's left-wing membership organization.

*2 -- On sensitive email, avoid using "quoted content" in your response. You're protected but your correspondent might not be and, if that person is using Gmail (for example), and they quote your email when answering you, the government has now defeated your attempts to secure your communications.

*3 -- Ask the people you work and communicate with to not use Gmail.
Using Gmail is foolhardy but using Gmail to communicate with a person who has left it for privacy reasons is downright irresponsible.

*4 -- Avoid using cellphones as your primary email client. Most cell phone companies use Google as their email partner and, no matter who your provider is, they will probably filter the email through Google...which is the same thing as using Gmail.

*5 -- Get an email client and do not rely on webmail. Email clients, like [http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/thunderbird/ Thunderbird], give you options about where to store email and how to use it. Webmail stores your email on a server and limits those options.

- --
Alfredo López

Coordinator, Outreach and Communications Work Group May First/People Link https://mayfirst.org

Technology Principles and Guides

2014-06-16T15:06:46Z

Jackie Smith:

== Guide to Technology use in the U.S. Social Forum ==

[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/1/1f/Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf Social Forum Technology Principles]

[[E-mail privacy and security]] '''''Get off g-mail!'''''
:Working with diverse groups requires careful attention to issues of privacy and security in our communications. This document outlines steps you can take to protect yourself and those with whom you work.

Technology Principles and Guides

2014-06-16T15:06:29Z

Jackie Smith:

== Guide to Technology use in the U.S. Social Forum
==

[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/1/1f/Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf Social Forum Technology Principles]

[[E-mail privacy and security]] '''''Get off g-mail!'''''
Working with diverse groups requires careful attention to issues of privacy and security in our communications. This document outlines steps you can take to protect yourself and those with whom you work.

Technology Principles and Guides

2014-06-16T15:05:54Z

Jackie Smith: Created page with "Guide to Technology use in the U.S. Social Forum [http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/1/1f/Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf Technology Princip…"

Guide to Technology use in the U.S. Social Forum

[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/1/1f/Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf Technology Principles]

[[E-mail privacy and security]] '''''Get off g-mail!'''''
Working with diverse groups requires careful attention to issues of privacy and security in our communications. This document outlines steps you can take to protect yourself and those with whom you work.

Template:USSFwikiNews

2014-06-16T15:03:14Z

Jackie Smith:

<noinclude>; [[USSF Planning Wiki|< back]]</noinclude>
{| cellpadding="5px" cellspacing="0px" width="1135px" background-color:"#AACCAA"; border:"1px" style="padding-top:0px; border:1px solid #35727A;"
|align="center" colspan="3" style="background-color:#eeffdf; padding-top:0px; padding-right:0px; padding-left:0px; padding-bottom:0px;" valign="top"|
{| style="margin:0; width:100%; background:#006600; font-family:sans-serif; font-size:120%; text-align:left; color:#ffffff; padding-left:0.4em; padding-top:0em; padding-bottom:0em;"
|''We are [[:Category:Directory of People|<span style="color:white;">USSF activists & staff</span>]] - [[USSF Working in Public|<span style="color:white;">Working in Public</span>]]''
|}
|-
|align="left" style="background-color:#eeffdf; padding-top:5px; padding-right:10px; padding-left:10px; padding-bottom:10px;" valign="top"|
<div style="float: left; width: 33%;"><big>
'''Background''' <small><span class = plainlinks>([http://wiki.ussf2010.org/index.php?title=Template:USSFwikiNews&action=edit edit])</span></small>

The next Forum will be:
* [[Philadelphia]] and....

* [[Orientation: History of Social Forums]]
* [http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/3/37/NPC_Membership_Criteria_and_Roles_and_Responsibilities.pdf How to Get Involved (pdf)]
* [[USSF Political Statements| USSF Political Unity]]
* [[Technology Principles and Guides]]
* [[Media:Orientation_to_USSF_Communications_Tools.pdf| Map of USSF Communications Tools]]

; Peoples Movement Assemblies
* [[People's Movement Assembly Guide]]
*[[List of People's Movement Assemblies]]

; Working Groups
* [[Working Group Links]]
* [[National Planning Committee 2014| National Planning Committee]]
* [[Guidelines for working together]]

; News
* [http://USSocialForum.net/newsletters USSF Newsletter]
* [[Press and People Stories|Press-People Stories]]

; Resources
* [[People's Movement Assembly Guide]]
* [[USSF Writers Network| Writer's Network]] [[:Category:Writer's_Network|(category)]]
* [[:Category:Graphics|Graphics]]
* [[Outreach materials]]

* [[Calendar]]
* [[:Category:Site Map|Site Map]]
* [[:Category:OpenNotes|Notes]] (Archive)

* [[Please Login]]
</big>
</div>
<div style="float: left; width: 66%; height:680px; overflow:auto;">
[[Image:VerticleLineTest.png|left]]
{{:Press and People Stories}}
</div>
|}

List of People's Movement Assemblies

2014-06-16T14:24:58Z

Jackie Smith:

Many PMAs around the country are already in process.

:PMAs currently being planned include:
*[http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCkQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsouthtosouth.org%2Fsouthern-movement-assembly-2012%2F&ei=nV5mU7SKFIudyATRkYKIAg&usg=AFQjCNGa5_Z0DAU_HMKMdQV_1FMp8VbMrQ&sig2=C2b2-BRUMk05_iSmHife6Q&bvm=bv.65788261,d.aWw Southern Movement Assembly] Lead organization [http://www.projectsouth.org |Project South]
*Pacific Northwest Social Forum and Regional PMA, Lead Organization [https://foodjustice.org/ |Community to Community]
*Appalachia PMA [http://www.wvdawg.org/ Direct Action Welfare Group]
*[https://movetoamend.org/ Move to Amend] PMAs on "A Democratic Constitution"--Oakland, Salt Lake City, Philadelphia
*National Gathering and PMA on Surveillance, Technology and Communities of Color, (May First, Center for Media Justice, and Free Press) at [http://amc.alliedmedia.org/ Allied Media Conference], Detroit Michigan
*SOA Watch Thematic PMA, Washington DC, Lead Organization [http://www.soaw.org/ SOA Watch]
*Louisville, KY Local PMAP
*[http://karani.wordpress.com/2014/06/14/farm-worker-assembly-builds-community-power-in-whatcom-county/ Bellingham, WA, Farmworker PMA]
*Poverty Working Group PMAs/World Courts of Women Against Poverty-- Midwest region and Southern region, follow up from Western and Northeast region
*May First PMA on Internet security-- a convergence of electronic communications leaders [https://mayfirst.org/ May First/ People Link]
*May First Brooklyn PMA on technology [https://mayfirst.org/ May First/ People Link]

Past PMAs
*[http://afgj.org/tear-down-the-walls Tear Down the Walls] (Tucson in November)
*[http://southtosouth.org/southern-movement-assembly-2012/ Southern Movement Assembly] (Dothan in August)

*[http://peoplesmovementassembly.org/ Peoples Movement Assembly History and Resources]

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-06-12T10:34:01Z

Jackie Smith:

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jackie at mayfirst.org)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''': '''TBA/ Task forces will meet separately'''.
::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jsmith1037@gmail.com
'''''
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==
:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

Communications and Technology Working Group

2014-06-12T10:33:27Z

Jackie Smith:

{{RightTOC}}
== About ==
The Communications and technology working group supports and advances the internal and external communication of the USSF and develops and manages technology for advancing USSF work. '''Contacts''': Jamie McClelland (jamie AT mayfirst.org) [Alfredo Lopez(alfredo AT mayfirst.org)] and Jackie Smith (jsmith1037 AT gmail.com)

*[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/comm-tech Join the e-mail list for info. on working group and task force meetings.]

:'''''We need volunteers''''' to help build our movements and tell the stories of the US and World Social Forum process. Please join us to meet cool people, share and maybe learn new skills, and make another world possible! Contacts: Website Joseph at Mayfirst.org; Newsletter/Editorial Collective jackie at mayfirst.org, Language Justice roberto at ussocialforum.net.

::'''*[[Media:Principles_for_Developing_Technology_for_Third_US_Social_Forum.pdf‎| Technology Principles of the U.S. Social Forum]]
'''

== Trainings ==
: Title: USSFwiki.org training hosted by TBA
; DATE TIME TBA
::Format is 30 min. webinar / screen share, then Q&A. Please have access to a computer so you can fully participate.
::: Description: A basic training of how to use the wiki, basic wiki concepts and where to ask for help.

== Task Forces ==
The communications team works as task forces, so contact one of the co-chairs to find out how best to put your skills to work!

:[[Website Design]] [http://www.ussocialforum.net '''US Social Forum Website (ussocialforum.net)'''] This task force builds and maintains the website for the social forum, including support for the polycenters. It also helps build our registration system and databases, all using free and open source software that helps build our communications autonomy.

:[[E-newsletters| Editorial Collective]] -Our regular e-newsletter reports on the US and World Social Forum process & helps build our movement by telling our own history, offering analysis, and encouraging creative discussion about social change work in this political moment. This tool is really important for connecting our work across our polycentric forum. The editorial collective also works on the social media, press releases, and other communications for the social forum and helps support the polycenters and PMAs.
::[[Media:Report_on_USSF_Updates_2012_rev.pdf|USSF Newsletter Report 2012]]
:[[Language Justice]] This task force helps ensure that we are doing all we can to enable people with diverse language needs to be part of the social forums. Translation and interpretation in languages depends upon committed volunteers, who also help educate our movements about the practical steps that language justice requires.
:[[Skills-Share]]- This task force helps network people with skills with organizing sites where people have needs for technology access. In addition to facilitating inter-personal/group connections, the task force organizes trainings and helps train local organizers to 'plug into' USSF webstreams, etc.

== Meetings & Notes==
:'''Next Meeting''': '''TBA/ Task forces will meet separately'''.
::'''To sign up for task force in particular area -- Tech/Website; Communications-Media; Language Justice; Skills-Sharing please email Jackie jsmith1037@gmail.com
'''''
:::Conference Call-in number: 718-303-3204 (press 6 after connecting, then 1000#)
:::Or you can join via the web: https://live.mayfirst.org/mexcla/en/1000

*[[media:May_29_2014_comms_tech_meeting.pdf|May 29, 2014 Meeting Notes]]
*[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/wiki/Communications_and_Technology_Working_Group_Jackson_NPC_Report Comms-Tech report at NPC Face to Face Meeting in Jackson, MS]

[[Current Comms-Tech Work Agenda]]

[[Past meeting notes]]

== Background Resources & Links ==
:[http://wiki.ussocialforum.net/images/5/5f/Comms_Tech_Proposal_July_2013.pdf Comms-Tech proposal for US Social Forum 3]
:[https://mayfirst.org/sites/default/files/organicinternet.1.5.pdf ''The Organic Internet Organizing History's Largest Social Movement'']
::This is a '''must-read''' for activists working to develop movements' communications capacity. Based on many years of experience of May First/People Link organizers.

'''''Solidarity Requires Dialogue'''''
Around the world, people have been identifying the need to expand our use of technology to enhance participation and dialogue in the US and World Social Forum.
:[[Media: Discussion_on_the_future_of_the_WSF_Feb_2013.pdf‎|Debates on how to Expand Participation in the World Social Forum 2013]]
:[[Media: BC_Regional_Expansion_Committee_DiscussionDocument_New_Movement_Technologies.pdf‎|Discussion Document on New Movement Technologies, by Canada-Quebec Indigenous People's Forum]]

:Return to the [[March 2013 Convergence Committee]] Page

Archive:
Communications Team for Detroit USSF [[Communications-Media Working Group]]
:'''MARCH 8-10 [[USSF Expanded]]''' in Philadelphia, PA
::[[Debrief from Friday panel streaming]]
::[[Notes: Comms-Tech agenda moving forward]]

File:May 29 2014 comms tech meeting.pdf

2014-05-31T11:53:47Z

Jackie Smith: uploaded a new version of "File:May 29 2014 comms tech meeting.pdf"