If we are serious about building working-class power, we must be serious about the business of raising money. Jobs With Justice has long believed and demonstrated that having a good time together as we struggle to make our values real in the world is essential to building a lasting movement.
Here are three snapshots of JwJ coalitions organizing money, building and strengthening relationships, and having fun in the process.
Eastern Massachusetts Legal Trivia Night
Who doesn’t love a little competition? A creative spin on the popular pub quiz night, Eastern Massachusetts Jobs with Justice’s annual Legal Trivia Night gives local lawyers and law students a chance to show off their knowledge of labor law. Individuals pay a registration fee of $25 per person (or $5 for students and low-income folks), but law firms can also sponsor the event at a range of levels, from the $100 “Bronze Bar Member” to the $2500 “Golden Gavel.” In addition to raising several thousand dollars, the event provides a fun space for allies in the legal community to meet each other and get to know Jobs with Justice.
Atlanta ‘Get Down with the Cause’ Fundraising Party
Atlanta Jobs with Justice held their annual fundraiser this summer at CWA Local 3204’s union hall. The party featured an amazing DJ who got the people dancing by playing an array of music from hip-hop, R&B, fund, salsa and beyond. There was wonderful Mexican food catered by a local family business, as well as visual artists painting movement-inspired pictures. There was an array of organizers and activist supporters that testified about why they support Atlanta Jobs with Justice, and many pledged to become or increase their monthly donations. In addition to inspiring everyone to continue to be active in helping to build Jobs with Justice, the event was able to raise $3,500 for the cause.
Portland Annual Solidarity Salsa Party Fundraiser
On September 21st, Portland Jobs with Justice hosted their Annual Solidarity Salsa Party fundraiser in partnership with VOZ Workers’ Rights Education Project. Supporters of both organizations purchase tickets to the event, participate in a silent auction, and have an opportunity to become a monthly sustainer for either or both organizations. Highlights from the fundraiser include: a salsa dance lesson, amazing food, a silent auction with donated items including weekend beach rentals on the Oregon coast. The funds generated were split evenly between the hosting organizations.
