PICO Training
Action

Context:

A local organizing effort has moved through 1-1 visits and research, and is not getting ready for a major public action. 

Learning Objectives:

1.      Understand the value and purpose of action.

2.      Understand the components to a successful action.

3.      Understand steps necessary to prepare for action.

Key Principles:

The action is in the reaction.

Rewards go to those who do the work.

Push a problem, get to an issue.  Push an issue, get to values.

Potential Faith Reflections:

Outline of Model Training
Action

1.  James
    ~Faith without action is dead!

Q.  Why would James write this?
    ~Easy to say you believe...are committed to values...

Q.  Where is the proof??  "deeds not words"

2.  Action is the proof of the congregations claim to care!

~Purpose for which the church organization exists to prominate the
vlaues of the congregation...
~Values cannot be established without "action"
~Action is the life blood of the organization

3.  Action often involves challenge, confrontation, and controversy

~confrontare means to stand before
Q.  Do you challenge in your personal life??  children, family,
friends??
Q.  Why not in public life?
Q.  "nothing more controversial than a man on a cross!" ~quote from
leading clergyman when advised that organizing would involve controversy

4.  Action is the 3rd phase in organizing:

     1-1~Research Action~Action~Reflection~1-1

     ~ involves bringing our pain and passion before public or private
      officials in a way in which they are compelled to address our critical
      issues/concerns.

Q.  What is the most important aspect of action from our point of view?
Turnout?  Why?

~Also important:  strong research, strong proposals, thorough planning,
attendance of officials, media, testimony, on your turf and on your
terms

Q.  What are the steps leading to action?

-  1-1s to turnout people
-  final research action to prep target
-  action planning meeting to authorize agenda, establish leadership team, and form committees.
-  media campaign
-  dress rehearsal (everyone must attend)
-  Mobilizing congregaton - Sunday preaching and sign ups to attend action

5.  Action Agenda

     7:00     Welcome

-          Prayer

-          Credential

-          Purpose and Introductions

-          Approval of the Agenda

-          (Roll Call)

7:10     Research Report

7:20     Testimony from the community (1 minute each)

7:30     Opening Remarks from Guest

7:35     Clarifying Questions from Leadership Team

7:50     Summary and Next Steps

8:00     Closing Prayer

            Evaluation (all are invited to attend)