Organizing 2.0 2019

In this session Jonathan Smucker will explore the populist moment, discussing how failures of the current social, economic, and political system set the stage for the ascent of Trump—but how there's simultaneously an unprecedented opportunity for progressive populist organizing. Jonathan will break down an anatomy of Trump's reactionary populism: how it functions through a combination of 'punching up' at social elitism and punching down at racialized scapegoats. Most importantly, he'll examine how an inclusionary populism that centers both race and class can succeed in this moment. Landing these theoretical concepts in their practical application, Jonathan will discuss organizing efforts in Pennsylvania with Lancaster Stands Up, digging into how this organization has been reaching alienated voters, mobilizing new volunteers, and building the kind of long-term political power needed to win.