Learning and understanding history, as we know, is advantageous. One area of history that always offers important lessons in social change is the history of nonviolent action. From time to time, I've mentioned the importance community organizers play locally and nationally in helping to change policy in Tucson and D.C. No matter how many politicians want to take credit for social change, it usually begins with community organizers. (I'm not talking about the activists who show up at protests. I'm talking about those who develop strategy that includes activists and more.)
As winter trudges forward, what a relief to see the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announce it turned down the permit that would have allowed the Dakota Access Pipeline be built under the Missouri River. But this didn't happen because some good-hearted politicians or corporate types got together to finally do the right thing. No. It happened because the Standing Rock Sioux effectively organized and kept focused as a nonviolent action. It worked.
That being said, don't we deserve a little time to celebrate after watching people get pummeled with rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons in freezing cold temperatures? Damn straight it's time to celebrate. Can't think of anything more appropriate and more Tucson that Lalopalooza on Friday, Dec. 9, at El Casino Ballroom (See Xavier Omar Otero's story in the music section).
Celebrate the father of Chicano music, late Tucson son Lalo Guerrero. And celebrate one of the reasons I get up in the morning besides the kiddo—KXCI. Our local community radio station's Jim Blackwood makes my mornings and Sabor del Barrio makes my Wednesday night. Thanks you, radio lovelies.
— Mari Herreras, mherreras@tucsonweekly.com
