Hi. Been around Daily Kos a long time, but this is my initial entry. First, I love this place. I am more educated and motivated than I ever have been politically and this site is my fuel. Thanks everyone!!
Second, I have an idea and would like the feedback from the good minds that frequent this joint. Namely, I was inspired by two people who planning to tap their professional skills and in some way educate and/or persuade.
The first person is Josh Marshall. You may be aware from reading his recent entries on TPM that he, "plans on covering the New Hampshire primary on location for the ten days leading up to the vote, and that the trip would be funded by reader contributions ear-marked just for this purpose." What a grassroots, novel concept.
The second person is client of mine. In 2004 he plans to take the entire month of October off to do nothing but campaign for Democrats. That is a testament to dissatisfaction, I tell ya.
I own a video production company in Raleigh, North Carolina. My partner and I are very politically motivated, and, like many on Dkos, pissed off about where our country is going and want to make a stand.
Now, here is my idea (inspired by Marshall and my client): taking a month or two off from the daily grind of producing marketing and educational media to work on behalf of like minded people and causes. This would involve offering our firm's people and equipment, at little or no charge, to produce content that will help tell the stories that need to be told. This could be done via longer form internet-based video "programs" or something as mundane as producing TV and radio ads for candidates.
The hitch is I will have to turn away lots of business from paying clientele to do this. However, Josh Marshall's plan inspired me. I wonder whether using one's professional skills/resources to bring change, but getting a small amount of financial help to make it feasible could work.
That's just the start. Please, I would love to hear your ideas.