Gadflying Biweekly Column Brookline TAB Brookline, Massachusetts

New Brookline Peace Group Faces Challenges Dennis Fox April 11, 2002

1. First, at the organizational level, the immediate task is to identify and coordinate town residents who already oppose US policy. Last week's meeting was a significant step in that direction, filling a gap in local organizations and enabling activists to meet one another.

In the long term, offering members support and maintaining morale are crucial. Too many activist groups flounder when a single-minded focus on the ultimate goal leads to burnout and despair. Activism is hard work. But it can also be fun.

2. Second, at the educational level, the group must communicate to other Brookline residents why those of us who see the world from a critical perspective dissent from US policy. Where differences stem from competing factual assumptions -- about the state of the world, or history, or human nature - providing accurate information to counter ideologically propagated falsehoods makes us more effective.

At the same time, though, we should willingly reassess our own assumptions. Can our proposed courses of action resolve the dangerous problems we face? Is war ever justified, or is it only the current war we oppose? Do any restrictions on civil liberties ever make sense? A healthy movement recognizes that internal debate makes it stronger.

3. Third, of course, at the crucial political level, Peaceworks members must work to oppose unjust policies. Some policy makers believe the many widespread misconceptions that have led us to where we are today. They may be persuaded by better data.

But many already know the facts. Indeed, they try to hide those facts from the public in an effort to reinforce American supremacy or corporate profit. Simply providing more information won't influence those whose political and economic interests lead them to seek power rather than justice.

Instead, we must reverse their policies, using not just rational persuasion but many forms of mass pressure. Next weekend's protests are one approach. Others range from lobbying and voting to creating alternative political parties to a variety of more militant direct actions.