OUR PROJECTS
Copwatch:
Petaluma Copwatch formed in May of 2006 in response to harassment of immigrants, youth, and political activists. We organize weekly patrols to observe police activity with video cameras, notepads, and informational cards for the public. We host “Know Your Rights” trainings to educate the community about police encounters, their basic civil rights, and how to resist police abuse. We work with friendly lawyers and try to assist victims of police brutality with legal support. As of winter 2009, we have just finished our report based on a community survey we conducted meant to gauge experiences and opinions of law enforcement. We work closely with the October 22 nd Coalition in Santa Rosa to organize protests, support victims of police abuse across the County, and bring awareness to local issues such as Tasers.
Food Not Bombs and Immigrants' Rights solidarity:
Food Not Bombs is a de-centralized organization with hundreds of chapters all over the world. In Petaluma, our chapter serves to immigrant day laborers, and works directly with that community to form relationships, express solidarity, and work towards improving their working conditions. Our long-term goal is to establish a Day Labor program so that finding work may be easier, safer, and beneficial for those who need it. We also work closely with groups such as the Committee for Immigrants' Rights on their campaigns to stop the illegal raids and deportations of immigrant workers, as well their efforts to stop the impounding of immigrant peoples' cars.
Phoenix Theater:
As youth growing up in Petaluma, we all have a very close connection to the Phoenix Theater. Starting in September of 2009, IMPACT! has begun to facilitate grassroots fundraising to support and sustain the many wonderful programs which the Phoenix runs, and which greatly benefit hundreds of young people in our community. As a community center for young people, the Phoenix has always been a place where young activists can conduct outreach, organize events, and educate other young people on important community issues like dealing with the police. Many of our organizer trainings and leadership development programs take place at the Phoenix Theater.
Organizer Trainings:
In IMPACT! we believe in developing the potential and capacity of our young members. Because we strive to construct horizontal leadership, we have begun setting up “Organizer Trainings.” These are intensive sessions where young activists learn the skills of community organizing. This includes campaign strategy, event planning, media relations, anti-oppression work, facilitating meetings, and envisioning alternative institutions, among other topics.
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