How can we change things in society in an age in which governments are focused on the bottom line and no-one has time for demonstrations?
Many people in the labor movement see coalitions as an important tool for social change and union revitalisation. What makes them successful? What causes them to fail? Community organizer Amanda Tattersall examines successful coalitions between unions and community organisations in three countries: the public education coalition in Sydney, the Ontario Health Coalition in Toronto fighting to save universal health care, and the living wage campaign run by the Grassroots Collaborative in Chicago. Through this she creates a new framework for understanding when and how coalition unionism is a successful strategy for social change, organisational development and union renewal. She finds that a 'less is more' approach is essential: it is easier to build stronger coalitions with fewer organisations making decisions and sharing resources. She also discovers that individuals matter a great deal, with coalition success depending on leaders' ability to broker relationships between organisations, as well as plan campaign strategy. Goals that match public interest and awareness of electoral and legislative politics were also crucial.
Power In Coalition is essential reading for unionists, community activists, and anyone passionate about social change.
