Description: Lecture, three hours. Examination of theory and practice of organizing, analysis of role of community organizing as empowerment strategy in disadvantaged and marginalized communities, and relationship of community and worker organizing to broader movements for social change. Analysis of different research methods and strategies in terms of best supporting organizing and movement building, with focus on community-based participatory research (CBPR). Understanding of theories, principles, and strategies of CBPR, appreciation of advantages and limitations of this approach, and skills necessary for participating effectively in CBPR projects. Analysis in depth of one organizing model and participation in ongoing research project that supports one local community or worker organization, exploring links between research and organizing campaign to which it is connected. Particular attention to race, gender, and class dimensions of CBPR and issues of power and decolonizing research. Letter grading.

Units: 4.0