ONE DC's Learning Circle is a space for ONE DC members to come together to learn about the legacy of of progressive action that we are carrying forward. By engaging with text, media, and storytelling, we learn from one another and our predecessors about guiding principles and ideals of racial equity, cooperative economics, and community building.
The content for our next meeting will focus on Ella Jo Baker. In many places in which ONE DC articulates our values, we cite Ella Jo Baker as being a guiding influence, such as here. She was a lead organizer in progressive organizing for 50 years, although often her contributions were under-recognized.
For pre-reading (optional, not required):
- "Developing Community Leadership," 3-page essay by Ella Jo Baker
- Excerpt from Chapter 5 of Collective Courage where Ella Jo Baker's work with the Young Negroes Co-operative League is discussed (pages 112-122)
During the Learning Circle on May 1:
- We'll review some biographical information about Ella Jo Baker.
- After, we'll watch and discuss this 30-minute speech she gave at an event in her honor in 1968.
No pre-reading is required to attend - all are welcome! Gatherings of the Learning Circle are the first Wednesday of each month, from 6-8pm at the Black Workers and Wellness Center. Contact Gabrielle Newell ([email protected]) for more information.
