Convention Discussion: How a club can make a difference in an election

 

Submitted by the Dwight – Hill Club, New Haven, Connecticut Communist Party USA

Our club, along with other neighborhood clubs in New Haven, is proud to be part of an important grassroots labor-community movement that has elected a super majority of union members and community allies to the city’s governing body, the New Haven Board of Alders (21 of 30).  This Board of Alders adopted their top three priorities based on stated needs from thousands of doors knocked: jobs, youth opportunities and safe streets, along with other issues including immigrant rights.

Based on our practical experience we have found the following methods effective to expand the Communist Party as part of helping to build this movement:

Be in touch with labor, both rank and file and leaders.

Door knocking, phoning are essential tools and skills.

Show that our Party and our teams are the ones most dedicated to the cause of the working people and the community.

Organize youth by working with the YCL.

Be in touch with pro-working class elected officials, develop close relationships with those having an advanced understanding.

When campaigning for a piece of legislation outside a coalition, distribute People’s World and other Party literature, this makes people think of larger issues.

Starting with an issue of broad appeal, and using this to advance people’s consciousness, is a very effective tool.                                                        

When campaigning in a coalition, take note of people with an advanced understanding and return to them with People’s World or other literature, encourage those with enthusiasm to come to a club meeting and join the Party.

During campaigns our team is “People Before Profits”. Mention this during meetings. This attracts the attention of people with an advanced understanding, approach them, encourage them.

Note people with a working class viewpoint during peace, environmental and equality work. Tie their causes with the working class community, engage them in work in these areas.  

Talk with co-workers and neighbors about our Party and issues of common concern.


The views and opinions expressed in the Convention Discussion are those of the author alone. The Communist Party is publishing these views as a service to encourage discussion and debate. Those views do not necessarily reflect the views of the Communist Party, its leading bodies or staff members. The CPUSA Constitution, Program, and all its existing policies remain in effect during the Convention discussion period and during the Convention.

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To contribute to the discussion, visit the Convention Discussion webpage

CONVENTION DISCUSSION 
30th National Convention, Communist Party USA
Chicago | June 13-15, 2014

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