IT'S ABOUT DEMOCRACY
The South Carolina Progressive Network is a broad-based coalition of advocacy groups and individual activists from across the state who have joined forces to promote social and economic change in South Carolina. Created in 1995 as a tool to engage ordinary citizens in their communities and in their government, the Network at its core has been about connecting people to each other and to resources designed to leverage the work of grassroots activists and organizations.
The Network is committed to electoral reform that helps free the political system from the influence of special interests and levels the playing field so all South Carolinians can participate fully in shaping public policy. While the Network does not support particular candidates or parties, it does register, educate and mobilize voters on the issues. The coalition is also committed to leadership development through skills workshops and by coordinating internships and volunteer opportunities.
IT'S ABOUT JUSTICE
Network members represent a range of interests, and have various priorities. But members have found solid common ground upon which to build the organization - based largely on shared values of justice, fairness and common decency.
Last year, the Network sponsored public hearings and town meetings to discuss hard problems such as racial profiling, workplace discrimination and campaign finance reform. Members also organized rallies, pickets and marches to protest injustice and press for legislative action. Based in the capital, the Network keeps tabs on the state legislature and keeps members current on bills of interest or concern.
IT'S ABOUT TIME
The Network helps individuals and groups build new relationships, strengthen old alliances and offers a support system for the grassroots community. While Network members represent a broad range of interests, they face many of the same obstacles and challenges. Members collaborate on various Network projects and forums. They also solicit and receive help for work being done by member groups.
Twice each year, the Network gathers at statewide conferences designed to help build leadership and organizing skills, and give members a chance to meet with other activists from across the state. Members also meet each month in Charleston, Greenville and Columbia to share information, coordinate projects and plan Network events.
Find out what you're missing. Plan to attend a meeting near you. For details, call 803-808-3384.