I want to write this with my opinion clear, but open to listen to other views, and perhaps not find like-mindedness at dkos, in which case, I would appreciate your constructive pointing in the right direction of where I might find it.
We have attempted to play the "inside," "grownup," "within the system" political game for over two decades now, with losses piling up upon losses for the political left. I believe the left needs to consider lawful, peaceful, non-violent protest and assembly as a serious method to bring the values of the majority of this nation's people into our government.
We have twice now lawfully elected a democrat to the presidency (2000 & 2004) only to see our votes discarded.
I do not deny an important role for the inside political operatives, working elections, lobbying, etc.
But what it seems to me we clearly are missing is people marching and rallying non-violently and loudly in the streets demanding a better country and better world.
The civil rights movement was a huge success which employed many non-violent, civil-disobedient tactics, and there is every reason to think it could help move our values farther ahead.
I see all the politicking, but those of us protesting and rallying are few and infrequent.
Isn't it maybe time to consider visible and loud tactics?