Tag Archives: rhetoric

Putting activists and authorities on alert and cultivating allies

Posted on June 15, 2020 by David S. Meyer

One round of activism can clear the way for the next one–even by other people–to make larger gains. The wave of protests against racialized police violence has already effectively promoted changes. It started with the arrests and indictments of the … Continue reading →

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Occupy outcomes: community, rhetoric, and law

Posted on December 7, 2012 by David S. Meyer

The influence of successful social movements generally plays out over a longer time than the movements themselves. What happens afterwards is complicated and contingent, and activists aren’t always quick to claim credit for what they’ve done. Nationally, Occupy effected a … Continue reading →

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Presidents, opinion, and activism

Posted on May 16, 2012 by David S. Meyer

Last week President Obama announced that his evolution on gay marriage had culminated in his decision to support it.  This statement was a milestone for the gay and lesbian rights movement and for America, especially as it came when same … Continue reading →

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Occupy and the politics of blame

Posted on October 20, 2011 by David S. Meyer

In wanting to speak for the “99 percent,” Occupy Wall Street–and its allied campaigns around the country–has defined a constituency and a target.  The argument is that the economy and government work for only a small percentage of Americans, and … Continue reading →

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A second cut on circumcision, politics, and rhetoric

Posted on June 10, 2011 by David S. Meyer

Crusaders against circumcision (intactivists) face the same sorts of challenges as activists on a wide range of other causes.  They want parents to choose not to circumcise their sons AND they want the government to prohibit circumcision–and punish adults involved … Continue reading →

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Beck and Piven, II

Posted on January 27, 2011 by David S. Meyer

The ballad of the pundit and the professor continues to add verses as the story of Glenn Beck’s demonization of Frances Fox Piven hit the blogs, professional and activist networks and mass media.  It raises interesting questions about what a … Continue reading →

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Words and Deeds

Posted on January 13, 2011 by David S. Meyer

The spotlight on the grief and mourning following Jared Loughner’s attack in Arizona creates an opportunity for people who want attention.    What they do with the opportunity depends upon who they are and what they want.  And the subsequent reactions … Continue reading →

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