Occupy Rogers Park Screening and Discussion of "Workers Repu

[education01]

This event is put on by Occupy Rogers Park, and co-sponsored by Occupy Chicago's Education Committee.

'Workers' Republic' is a 60-minute documentary that chronicles one of the most important labor victories in recent memory. The film won the John MIchaels Human Rights Film Award at the 32nd annual Big Muddy Film Festival in Feb. 2010. Three weeks before Christmas 2008, in the depths of the economic crisis, Chicago company Republic Windows and Doors announced the factory's closure. They informed their work force that they would not be paid for their final week or receive their accrued vacation pay. Insurance benefits were cut immediately, and the workers were denied the 60-day severance guaranteed under the federal WARN Act. What those ordinary people did next reminded the working class it possesses a power long forgotten. In a move that harkened back to the sit-down strikes of the 1930s, they occupied the doomed factory day and night for nearly a week, declaring they would not leave until they were given what their employer owed them. The workers won over the public to their cause and the story made headlines all over the world. 'Workers' Republic' conveys the courage, the creativity, and the solidarity of those window-builders who vowed to stand up for their rights. From the opening moments to the eventual victory, and culminating in the surprise fate of the Chicago factory, the film shows radical action can be a solution to exploitation.

Filmmaker Andrew Friend has assembled the accounts of several of the main fighters in the Republic struggle, including front line workers, the organizers of their small union, and a few of the thousand people that supported them through small acts of solidarity. In our turbulent times of economic strife, 'Workers' Republic' is an anthem of future possibility and opportunity. http://workersrepublic.tv/

Prior to the film showing, Rogers Park Occupy is joining with Food Not Bombs to distribute food at the Morse El Stop at 2 PM (Food Not Bombs' regular food distribution place and time).

Following the film and discussion, beginning at 7 PM, Rogers Park Occupy will host a joint General Assembly of Occupiers and supporters from around the city. Everyone is welcome!!! For those coming by public transit, Living Water Community Church is 4 blocks from the Morse Red Line stop and on the 155 bus route.

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[ghasse]

I approve.

[KMcCoop]

Does anyone know if Living Water Community Church is handicapped accessible?

[hclasalle]

You didn't provide a date for the showing, but the webpage does allow the viewing of the entire film online so I'll do that.

[sheryl]

KMcCoop I hope that you found an answer for your question. I was at the Living Water GA tonight and yes it was accesable. Were you able to make it?

This forum really really needs a moderator, someone who is available to answer questions like this one. In the future, pm me. I will do my best to find an answer for you.

I extend this invite to anyone who is trying to get Occupy Chicago info. I read the forum postings regularly and try to stay informed. I will do my best to help.

I did not see the film today prior to the GA but I have seen it. Too bad I had to miss the discussions. As someone else mentioned, it appears to be available online.