The US Social Forum planning meeting for the Northeast region is taking place on Dec. 9th and the Global Nets WG is sending two delegados. Its my opinion that anarchists, specifically pro-organizational NYMAAish types, need to take part in this for several reasons.
* The World Social Forum, of which the USSF is a segment of, is the largest global gathering of people interested in changing this world for the better. It was formed in response to the World Economic Forum, the neoliberal globalization agenda, and the pro-radical democracy and anti-capitalist response (global justice movement) of which anarchists and anti-authoritarians largely forged from the bottom up.
* Its a worldwide experiment in participatory democracy which resonates with anarchist principles. We should duke it out with those we clash with within it instead of self-righteously criticizing from the outside. The structure of the WSF and its regional counterparts is completely flexible and context-based (like every truly democratic institution)... therefore it can be subverted or refined based on who participates.
* The USSF organizing committee consists of grassroots, most often people of color centered organizations which are very democratic, though certainly not as democratic in structure as, say, a NYMAA. Though not perfect little platonic forms, they are working on the ground to make changes and they can learn alot from anarchists (and vice versa).
* Though not central to my main point, I believe anarchists need to take part in wider neutral/non-sectarian (explicitly at least) lefty coalitions as individuals, groups, caucuses, tendencies, and organizers. Of course we also need to strengthen our own organizations. This is the best kind of propaganda we can dish out.. as opposed to shying away into a subcult/scene. We also have to realize that no organization will be set up perfectly democratic for us to hop into, and especially not without loud-mouthed anarchists keeping organizations honest. Instead we should look at which coalitions are beyond reform and which aren't and engage the latter.
* No political parties are allowed to organize for the USSF.
* USSF is NOT a decision making body so it certainly can not be compared to the old Internationals in respect to vanguardism etc.
I'd like to see NYMAA propose a workshop or assembly for the USSF. In particular, i'd like it to regard a national or international big tent anarchist network which is direct-action centered, that is, a new one or a revival/rejuvenation of DAN/PGA. Another idea that the Global Nets WG has been discussing is connecting adherents to the Other Campaign. Why not do it at USSF?
What do people think? Please comment. Also, check out the USSF '07 website [1].
Jon