Work, Dignity and Social Change
Interactive Video Workshop
In December 2001, faced with a collapsing economy and a government that failed to respond to the people’s needs, Argentina exploded into massive protests. What we saw were 4 successive presidents thrown out of power, dramatic roadblocks called piquetes, and the masked protesters who organized them. But behind some of the piquetes lay an intricate network of neighborhood organizations that had as their ultimate goal autonomy and self-sufficiency for their community.
This video is a compilation of interviews and visits with four Unemployed Workers’ Movements of Argentina. Come hear about their projects: everything from bakeries and soup kitchens, to organic farms and gardens, even their own schools and neighborhood health centers. And listen to the organizers discuss their operating principles—autonomy, horizontal decision-making and direct democracy—and the day-to-day challenges they face.
The video is divided into short sections, is designed to be used as a tool for workshops with your organization and friends. Let these amazing social movements inspire you, and help spark discussion about the work that’s being done, or needs to be done, in your neighborhood.
A facilitator’s guide to using the video workshop is also available, and includes historical information, resources for further study, and sample discussion questions.
