Take Back America

The Take Back America Conference

The 2007 Take Back America Conference was hosted by Campaign for America's Future and held from March 18 - 20 at Hilton Washington Hotel, 1919 Connecticut Avenue, Washington D.C.^[1]

About

Speakers

The following is a list of the 237 people who spoke at the Conference:^[2]

Davey D, DJ, Hip Hop Journalist
J. Period, DJ
Cherryl Aldave, Moderator
Billy Wimsatt, League of Independent Voters
Grime, Hip Hop Artist
D Labrie, Hip Hop Congress
Rep. Roberta Abdul Salaam
Karl Agne
Jason Alexander
Gar Alperovitz
Dan Ancona
Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr.
Phil Angelides
Diane Archer
John Arensmeyer
Nan Aron
Bama Athreya
Biko Baker
Stacy Bannerman
Ellynne Bannon
Katie Barge
Melody Barnes
Tony Barr
Rand Beers
Medea Benjamin
Julie Bergman Sender
Duncan Black
Ron Blackwell
Jeff Blodgett
Progressive Bloggers
Robert Borosage
Chris Bowers
Sen. Barbara Boxer
Keith Boykin
Robert Brandon
Ellen Bravo
Donna Brazile
David Brock
Senator Sherrod Brown
Anna Burger
Angela Canterbury
Tim Carpenter
Majora Carter
Sally Castleman
John Cavanagh
Julie Christensen
Michelle Ciccarelli
Sen. Hillary Clinton
Steve Cobble
Matthew Cohen
Chuck Collins
Joe Conason
Representative John Conyers
Rep. Joe Courtney
Craig Crawford
Anita Dancs
Anthony Daniels
Rep. Rosa DeLauro
Jim Dean
Howard Dean
Allegra Dengler
Robert Dodge
David Donnelly
Tamara Draut
Jane Dugdale
Del. Adam Ebbin
Peter Edelman
Senator John Edwards
Donna Edwards
Ross Eisenbrey
Jon Elliot
Representative Keith Ellison
Jodie Evans
Rep. Jessica Farrar
Jeffrey Feldman
Jenifer Fernandez Ancona
Bob Fertik
Laura Flanders
Glen Ford
Bill Foster
Dan Froomkin
Page Gardner
Irasema Garza
Alex Gibney
Ralph E. Gomory
Mel Goodman
E. J. Graff
Sen. Mike Gravel
Mark Green
Adam Green
Stan Greenberg
Robert Greenwald
Senator Nan Grogan Orrock
Vanessa Gueringer
Jane Hamsher
Lauren Harkrader
Thom Hartmann
Ana Henderson
Wade Henderson, Esq.
Roger Hickey
Jon Hoadley
Arlene Holt
Chung-Wha Hong
Lane Hudson
Jon Hunt
Maude Hurd
Michael Huttner
Lee Iacocca
Jesse Jackson
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee
Carol Jenkins
Alan Jenkins
Vickie Johnson
Dave Johnson
Rob Johnson
Van Jones
Conor Kenny
Michael Kieschnick
Adam Klaus
Senator Amy Klobuchar
Lawrence Korb
Robert Kraig
Corbett Kroehler
Representative Dennis Kucinich
Celinda Lake
Ned Lamont
Lynn Landes
Thea Lee
Representative Barbara Lee
Anna Lefer
John Logue
Jeff Madrick
Dr. Julianne Malveaux
Jon Mandell
Rep. Jim Marzilli
Tom Matzzie
Rep. Joe McDermott
Jane McDonald-Pines
Tim McFeeley
Kathleen McGinty
Kellye McIntosh
William McNary
Harold Meyerson
Ellen Miller
Larry Mishel
Michael Moore
Eddy Morales
Rep. Patrick Murphy
Nathan Newman
Sara Nichols
Laura Nichols
Shamako Nobel
Ali Noorani
Shawn O'Donnell
Sen. Barack Obama
Juan Pacheco
Jennifer Pae
Eli Pariser
Arn Pearson
Speaker Nancy Pelosi
Gabe Pendas
Rick Perlstein
Duane Peterson
Michael Phillips
John Podesta
Isaiah Poole
Carl Pope
Chris Rabb
Jamin Raskin
Connie Rice
Cecile Richards
Gov. Bill Richardson
Jerome Ringo
Will Robinson
Joel Rogers
Simon Rosenberg
Matt Rothschild
Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner
Jason Rozenblat
James Rucker
Alicia Russell
Angelica Salas
James Salt
Senator Bernie Sanders
Guy Saperstein
Representative Jan Schakowsky
Andrea Batista Schlesinger
Rinku Sen
Susan Shaer
Anita Sharma
Rep. Carol Shea-Porter
Beth Shulman
David Shuster
Josh Silver
Dr. Jonathan Simon JD
Jonathan Simon
Harold Simon
Madhuri Singh
David Sirota
Nicholas Skala
Holly Sklar
Jefferson Smith
Bev Smith
Lori Sokol
Representative Hilda Solis
Jon Soltz
Greg Squires
Joan Stallard
Rev. Ron Stief
Matt Stoller
David Swanson
Aimee Tavares
Adam Taylor
Senator Jon Tester
State Rep. Alisha Thomas Morgan
Jessy Tolkan
Gustavo Torres
Gloria Totten
Marisa Trevino
Rich Trumka
Cenk Uyger
Tracy Van Slyke
Mara Vanderslice
Michael Waldman
Rep. Maxine Waters
Drew Westen
Marcy Wheeler
Judy Wicks
Kristina Wilfore
Roger Wilkins
Elandria Williams
Oliver Willis
Richard Wolffe
Jay Woodson, NHHPC
Rep. Lynn Woolsey
Quentin Young
Katrina vanden Heuvel

Sponsors and Partners

The following organizations were sponsors or partners of the conference:^[3]

Conference Sponsors

Conference Partners

Progressive Majority
Apollo Alliance
Tom Paine Common Sense
SEIU
US Action
ACORN
AFL-CIO
United Steel Workers
Move On
1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East
American Federation Employees State County Municipal (AFL-CIO)
Center for Policy Alternatives
Yearly Kos Convention
Ballot Initiative Strategy Center
True Majority
Alliance for Justice
National Priorities Project
New Organizing Institute
United American Nurses, AFL-CIO
Democracy for America

Delegates

The following were delegates at the conference and were interviewed by Bill Scher:

The following were delegates to the conference:

Ian Mishalove^[4]

Sessions

The following is a list of the sessions and events which were held at the conference:^[1]

Our Time Has Come

On June 18, 2007, Robert Borosage, Representative Keith Ellison, Eli Pariser, Representative Jan Schakowsky and Andrea Batista Schlesinger spoke in the opening session entitled "Our Time Has Come".

Lunch Plenary, Apollo: New Energy and New Jobs

On June 18, 2007, Phil Angelides, Kathleen McGinty, Carl Pope and Jerome Ringo spoke in a session entitled "Lunch Plenary, Apollo: New Energy and New Jobs".

Global Warming And Voter Apathy - Inextricable Linkage

On June 18, 2007, Corbett Kroehler spoke in a session entitled "Global Warming And Voter Apathy - Inextricable Linkage". The description for the session was:

"It's true. America's political inaction on the climate crisis shares an institutional cause with the growing ranks of apathetic voters. Indeed, our countrymen are more and more likely every day to vote in an American Idol competition that an election.

The good news is that these two problems have a common, people-powered, progressive solution. Come hear all about it and scrutinize its underlying premises."

How to use the TBA 2007 website to follow all the action at the event

On June 18, 2007, Jon Mandell and Jason Rozenblat spoke in a session entitled "How to use the TBA 2007 website to follow all the action at the event". The description for the session was:

"This year, Take Back America has partnered with Confabb.com to bring you a new, fully interactive conference experience. Join us to learn how to use all of the the social media, networking, blogging, ratings/reviews and chat features available through Confabb.com. As a Take Back America attendee, you already have a free account set up in our system, so we encourage you to make the most of it."

The War of Ideas: A Real Security Agenda for America

On June 18, 2007, Robert Borosage, John Cavanagh, Mel Goodman, Anita Sharma and Rep. Lynn Woolsey spoke in a session entitled "The War of Ideas: A Real Security Agenda for America".

The War of Ideas: How Conservatism Has Failed

On June 18, 2007, Melody Barnes, Harold Meyerson, Rick Perlstein, Connie Rice and Cecile Richards spoke in a session entitled "The War of Ideas: How Conservatism Has Failed". The session featured "CPAC: The Unauthorized Documentary" by Max Blumenthal, The Nation.

The War of Ideas: New Economics

On June 18, 2007, Roger Hickey, Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Larry Mishel and Rich Trumka spoke in a session entitled "The War of Ideas: New Economics".

The Impeachment Process

On June 18, 2007, [[Jane Dugdale, Bob Fertik, Glen Ford and David Swanson spoke in a session entitled "The Impeachment Process". The description for the session was:

"This session will provide information about the impeachment process and provide a forum to discuss the possibility of impeaching current officials."

Clean & Fair Elections Now

On June 18, 2007, Angela Canterbury, Arn Pearson and Aimee Tavares spoke in a session entitled "Clean & Fair Elections Now". The description for the session was:

"You know the problem - campaign cash is the currency of our democracy. Money drowns out the votes and voices of ordinary Americans resulting in policies that benefit the wealthy special interests. If we want clean air and water, affordable and accessible healthcare and education, consumer protection, alternative energy and more, then we need clean and fair elections. Let's level the playing field and give progressive candidates a way to run and win on ideas. We can end the corrupting pay-to-play politics with public funding of elections. Come learn more about the successes in the states and the nationwide movement to pass the Fair Elections Now Act."

Women Rising: The Issues that Count

On June 18, 2007, Ellen Bravo, Irasema Garza, EJ Graff, Cecile Richards and Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner spoke in a session entitled "Women Rising: The Issues that Count".

Out of Iraq: What Comes Next?

On June 18, 2007, Representative Barbara Lee, Tom Matzzie, Rep. Patrick Murphy, Rep. Carol Shea-Porter and Jon Soltz spoke in a session entitled "Out of Iraq: What Comes Next?".

The New Progressive Majority

On June 18, 2007, Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr., Page Gardner, Stan Greenberg and Michael Kieschnick spoke in a session entitled "The New Progressive Majority".

We've Got Issues: Young People in Action

On June 18, 2007, Ellynne Bannon, Jon Hoadley, Eddy Morales, Juan Pacheco, Madhuri Singh, Jessy Tolkan and Elandria Williams spoke in a session entitled "We've Got Issues: Young People in Action".

Conservatives are to Supply-Side Economics as Progressives are to ________?

On June 18, 2007, Dan Ancona and Jenifer Fernandez Ancona spoke in a session entitled "Conservatives are to Supply-Side Economics as Progressives are to ________?". The description for the session was:

"You probably have never heard of Dan Ancona. But you may have never heard of Russell Kirk either, and his writings in the 1950s helped define the principles of conservativism!

Come to this session and see Dan's interesting and provocative PowerPoint on how the Left can define a new economic narrative, which starts with defining the principles that make us progressives."

Reaching the Public

On June 18, 2007, Jeffrey Feldman, Dave Johnson and Conor Kenny spoke in a session entitled "Reaching the Public". The description for the session was:

"Ways to reach the public to promote core progressive values and create DEMAND for progressive ideas and candidates."

Book Signing

On June 18, 2007, Ellen Bravo, Stan Greenberg and Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner participated in a "Book Signing".

Creating a National Popular Vote for President: Organizing Insurrection in "Spectator States"

On June 18, 2007, Jamin Raskin spoke in a session entitled "Creating a National Popular Vote for President: Organizing Insurrection in "Spectator States"". The description for the session was:

"Maryland State Senator Jamin Raskin and Ryan O'Donnell of FairVote will discuss the exciting campaign for a National Popular Vote, which was just passed into law in the state of Maryland and has passed 11 state legislative bodies, including both houses in California, Hawaii and Illinois. The plan is to create an interstate compact of states comprising 270 in the electoral college that will commit to cast their electors in presidential elections for the winner of the national popular election. This plan, which has been endorsed by the New York Times, would prevent nightmarish election scenarios like the 2000 election when the national popular vote loser (George Bush by more than a half-million votes) was able to win based on manipulation of the vote in Florida and partisan intervention by the Supreme Court. It would also reenergize presidential politics in the two-thirds of states which are now safely red or blue and are thus fly-over territory in presidential elections. This grassroots movement and strategy could revitalize democratic politics in America and make every vote count. Come hear more about the National Popular Vote plan from the State Senator (and constitutional law professor) who introduced it in Maryland as well as speakers from FairVote, America's leading electoral reform group. You will find out what is happening in your state and how you can help overthrow the reactionary dynamics of the electoral college, an institution steeped in the history of slavery and political white supremacy."

Election Protection 2008

On June 18, 2007, Allegra Dengler, Ana Henderson, Lynn Landes, Dr. ]]Jonathan Simon]] JD and Jonathan Simon spoke in a session entitled "Election Protection 2008". The description for the session was:

"We'll review the challenges we face with electronic voting machines, caging lists, voter intimidation and so much more in 2008. We'll organize to protect the vote."

Progressive Majority Reception

On June 18, 2007, Donna Brazile spoke at the "Progressive Majority Reception".

The Quiet Revolution: Combating the Right Wing Attack on our Constitutuion

On June 18, 2007, Nan Aron and Kellye McIntosh spoke in a session entitled "The Quiet Revolution: Combating the Right Wing Attack on our Constitutuion". The description for the session was:

"Film-screening and discussion. Hosted by Emmy award-winning actor Bradley Whitford, Quiet Revolution is a short documentary that features congressional leaders like Barack O'bama and leading scholars who describe how an increasingly influential movement on the far right has waged a sustained war on the Constitution as we know it. Ultra-conservative politicians, judges, professors and activists would overturn decades of precedent to shred the fabric of popular laws protecting workers, consumers and public health, expand executive power at the expense of basic civil liberties, and impose a narrow social agenda on the rest of the body politic. Presented by Alliance for Justice, this session will help progressives learn to organize to preserve a fair and independent federal judiciary."

Do You Want a New U.S. Foreign Policy?

On June 18, 2007, John Cavanagh spoke in a session entitled "Do You Want a New U.S. Foreign Policy?". The description for the session was:

"Join Foreign Policy In Focus and the Institute for Policy Studies in a discussion of how to take back American foreign policy. Americans went to the polls last November to elect a new foreign policy. Instead, we got more of the same. The Bush administration has sent more U.S. troops to Iraq, stepped away from reductions in nuclear weapons, ignored the urgency of climate change, and continued to support economic policies that widen the gap between the haves and the have nots. The Democrats have a golden opportunity to present a new U.S. foreign policy in which America is a global partner, not a global cop. Drawing from their bold, new Just Security framework, FPIF and IPS will offer a new way for Democrats to think about America's role in the world. Join report editor John Feffer (FPIF and IPS), along with report contributors Emira Woods (FPIF and IPS), Anita Dancs (National Priorities Project), and Kevin Martin (PeaceAction)."

The New Populist Energy

On June 18, 2007, Senator Sherrod Brown, Roger Hickey, Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Bernie Sanders and Katrina vanden Heuvel spoke in a session entitled "The New Populist Energy".

Film Night: Taxi to the Dark Side

On June 18, 2007, Alex Gibney spoke at a session entitled "Film Night: Taxi to the Dark Side". The description for the session was:

"Alex Gibney examines the Bush administration's policy on torture in his film Taxi to the Dark Side which investigates the death of an Afghani taxi driver who died from injuries inflicted by US soldiers."

Film Night: Lift the Ban

On June 18, 2007, FRED spoke in a session entitled "Film Night: Lift the Ban". The description for the session was:

"Robert Greenwald and Brave New Foundation present the world premier of Lift the Ban, which tells the story of Stephen Benjamin who served in the Navy as a much need Arabic linguist providing support for troops on the frontline until this March-when he was discharged from the military because he is gay."

Party: Next Generation Leaders Late Night

On June 18, 2007, FRED spoke in a party entitled "Party: Next Generation Leaders Late Night". The party was sponsored by Young People For, Living Liberally, and Progress With Friends. The description for the party was:

"Featuring "Greyhound Diaries"-a rolling snapshot in words, images, and song of people struggling to get by in America based on singer-songwriter Doug Levitt's tours through the country by Greyhound bus. This will be followed by DJ ClubTedd spinning his funk and groove."

Speak Out: How do we drive the debate?

On June 19, 2007, Thom Hartmann and Bev Smith spoke in a session entitled "Speak Out: How do we drive the debate?".

Youth Transitions & Workforce Readiness: Averting the Impending Crisis

On June 19, 2007, Matthew Cohen spoke in a session entitled "Youth Transitions & Workforce Readiness: Averting the Impending Crisis". The description for the session was:

"In the globally competitive economy of the 21st century, state economies in large part will thrive or decline based on how well they identify, recruit, cultivate and retain “knowledge workers,” individuals who possess postsecondary educational credentials, technical aptitudes, the ability to learn rapidly, and an entrepreneurial approach to employment. As the downstream “consumers” of tomorrow’s workforce, employers are highly motivated to positively influence events in this arena.

Among other issues, we will explore…

- strategies for successful corporate-academic partnership(s)

- the challenges and opportunities presented by tomorrow's workforce (millennials, Gen Y) and engagement startegies for academics and employers

- how can employers identify and foster critical talent throughout the academic lifecycle

Making an Impact

On June 19, 2007, Shawn O'Donnell spoke in a session entitled "Making an Impact". The description for the session was:

"Come join an early morning group discussion of the many and varied frustrations of grassroots activists and learn how to harness negative energy and turn it into a positive force for good."

Sen. Mike Gravel

On June 19, 2007, Senator for Alaska, Mike Gravel spoke in a 30 minute session.

Gov. Bill Richardson

On June 19, 2007, Gov. Bill Richardson spoke in a 30 minute session.

Book Signing

On June 19, 2007, Thom Hartmann participated in a "Book Signing".

Making College Affordable: The National Imperative

On June 19, 2007, Robert Brandon, Rep. Joe Courtney, Anthony Daniels, Tamara Draut and Jennifer Pae spoke in a session entitled "Making College Affordable: The National Imperative".

It's the Story: How Culture and New Media Can Move Progressive Ideas

On June 19, 2007, Karl Agne, Julie Bergman Sender, Laura Nichols, Will Robinson, Simon Rosenberg and Jon Soltz spoke in a session entitled "It's the Story: How Culture and New Media Can Move Progressive Ideas".

The Great Risk Shift: When Corporations Shred the Social Contract

On June 19, 2007, Ron Blackwell, Ellen Bravo, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Alicia Russell and Greg Squires spoke in a session entitled "The Great Risk Shift: When Corporations Shred the Social Contract".

New Strategies for the Global Economy

On June 19, 2007, Ralph E. Gomory, Rob Johnson, Thea Lee and David Sirota spoke in a session entitled "New Strategies for the Global Economy".

A Progressive Agenda for States

On June 19, 2007, Rep. Roberta Abdul Salaam, Del. Adam Ebbin, Rep. Jessica Farrar, Celinda Lake, Rep. Jim Marzilli, Rep. Joe McDermott, Tim McFeeley, Nathan Newman and Joel Rogers spoke in a session entitled "A Progressive Agenda for States".

The Blogosphere: From Ideas to Action

On June 19, 2007, Chris Bowers, Jim Dean, Jane Hamsher, Isaiah Poole, Matt Stoller and Oliver Willis spoke in a session entitled "The Blogosphere: From Ideas to Action".

Debunking Myths of the Working Mom

On June 19, 2007, Lori Sokol spoke in a session entitled "Debunking Myths of the Working Mom". The description for the session was:

"'More Career Women Are Opting - Out,' 'Career Moms and Stay-At-Home Moms At War,Women Can't Really Have It All.' Label it what you will, the mainstream media has been skewing headlines to bolster working mothers' negative effects on marriage and family.

Come hear the truth, based upon hard facts and statistics, about the real successes of working mothers, and why the press resists reporting on them.

Lori Sokol is Founder & Publisher of Work Life Matters magazine, a national business publication that advocates for the inclusion of work-life benefits and services for our nation's workforce."

Holding the Democratic Majority Accountable

On June 19, 2007, Lane Hudson spoke in a session entitled "Holding the Democratic Majority Accountable". The description for the session was:

"We all worked very hard to win a majority of both houses of Congress in the 2006 Election. It is important to balance holding the Democratic Leadership on issues important to the Progressive Movement, but it is also important to maintain and build on our majority in the 2008 election.

This is a round table discussion about the most appropriate ways to move the Democratic Leadership in a progressive direction while positioning ourselves for victory in 2008. Please come ready to be passionate and pragmatic about our issues. Bring your creative ideas to advance a progressive agenda through means such as grassroots action, the blogosphere, fundraising, traditional media, and any other way you can think of!"

Book Signing

On June 19, 2007, Tamara Draut, Greg Squires participated in a "Book Signing".

Invest in Our Future: Challenging Austerity Economics

On June 19, 2007, Ross Eisenbrey, Jeff Madrick and Beth Shulman spoke in a session entitled "Invest in Our Future: Challenging Austerity Economics".

Foxed Out: Using the New Media to Challenge the Right

On June 19, 2007, Adam Green, Mark Green, Robert Greenwald and James Rucker spoke in a session entitled "Foxed Out: Using the New Media to Challenge the Right".

Terrorism: A Real Security Response

On June 19, 2007, Rand Beers, Robert Borosage, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, Guy Saperstein and Susan Shaer spoke in a session entitled "Terrorism: A Real Security Response".

Poverty and Politics: Katrina's Clarion Call

On June 19, 2007, Peter Edelman, Vanessa Gueringer, Arlene Holt, Maude Hurd, Rinku Sen and Rep. Maxine Waters spoke in a session entitled "Poverty and Politics: Katrina's Clarion Call".

Building Community Wealth: Progressive Ownership Strategies

On June 19, 2007, Gar Alperovitz, Vickie Johnson, John Logue and Harold Simon spoke in a session entitled "Building Community Wealth: Progressive Ownership Strategies".

SweatFree Campaigns to End Sweatshop Procurement

On June 19, 2007, Bama Athreya and Jon Hunt spoke in a session entitled "SweatFree Campaigns to End Sweatshop Procurement". The description for the session was:

"This session will describe exciting new work in several states and cities around the US to win sweatfree procurement legislation for all government procured goods, ending the practice of taxpayer subsidization of sweatshops. It will also provide activists with the tools to launch their own sweatfree campaigns. A sweatfree purchasing campaign is an effective and concrete local action you can take to help humanize the global sweatshop economy. It is also a potent means to foster sustained local activism and create strong local organizations. As a local issue in which elected officials have to take positions, your campaign will offer significant possibilities for public education. Most important, you and other local activists will control the shape and timing of your own efforts, creating the possibility for strong organizational growth."

A New Strategy for Peace

On June 19, 2007, Robert Dodge and Michael Phillips spoke in a session entitled "A New Strategy for Peace". The description for the session was:

"Four years of the Iraq war with no end in sight. Our politicians and old methods have failed. Not Acceptable!Time for a new strategy for peace. This new strategy is easy, bypasses politicians, is inexpensive, will invigorate the anti-war movement and is unstoppable. Find out how "We the people" are not as powerless as you think.

Also Bob Dodge, President of Physicians for Social Responsibility Ventura County, California and a member of the international board of Beyond War, will discuss the obsolescence of war and how an individual can make a difference."

Sen. Barack Obama

On June 19, 2007, Senator for Illinois, Barack Obama spoke in a 30 minute session.

Sen. John Edwards

On June 19, 2007, Senator John Edwards spoke in a 30 minute session.

Rally on Employee Free Choice Act

On June 19, 2007, Roger Hickey and William McNary were listed as coordinating a "Rally on Employee Free Choice Act". The description for the rally was:

"Take Back America goes to Capitol Hill! (corner of Delaware Ave. & C St., NE). Board free buses at Terrace level, T street entrance; Box lunches on buses. Take Back America participants are invited to join thousands of union activists, senators and allies who will rally to demand that the Senate pass the Employee Free Choice Act to restore workers' freedom to form unions and bargain for better lives. Sponsored by Campaign for America's Future, the US labor movement, and our many allied groups. Buses will return everyone to Washingon Hilton before 4 pm."

Betrayed!: How the Failure to Care for the 21st Century Veteran is Endangering Families and Jeopardizing Communities

On June 19, 2007, Stacy Bannerman spoke in a session entitled "Betrayed!: How the Failure to Care for the 21st Century Veteran is Endangering Families and Jeopardizing Communities". The description for the session was:

"The Walter Reed scandal is just the tip of the iceberg in the Bush administration's failure to care for our returning veterans and their families.

Tens of thousands of veterans have timed out of the two-year window of mental health care guaranteed by the Veterans Administration. Many of America’s veterans, children, and military family members now meet the definition of an “at-risk” population: Being endangered, as from exposure to disease or from a lack of parental or familial guidance and proper health care.

The untreated effects of combat-related trauma last a lifetime, and long-term consequences include: unemployment, severe depression, divorce, domestic violence, chemical dependency, poor physical health, homelessness, “accidental death,” suicide, and even murder. But these are not your father’s veterans. As the wife of a National Guardsman who served a year in Iraq, and a charter Board member of Military Families Speak Out, I have seen first-hand the psychological wounds the Iraq War is inflicting in the troops and their loved ones.

In this session, you will learn:

- who the 21st Century veterans are

- how the failure to care for vets and families impacts them and the community

- about a brand new private/public project for veterans and families

- how progressives can promote better care for veterans and families ... and why they should"

Prevent Unwanted Presidencies (And Congresses): To-Do List For An Honest '08 Election

On June 19, 2007, Sally Castleman and Dr. Jonathan Simon JD spoke in a session entitled "Prevent Unwanted Presidencies (And Congresses): To-Do List For An Honest '08 Election". The description for the session was:

"There will be no Taking Back America without an honest election. To have one it's up to all of us to fully comprehend the threats and ratchet up the level of scrutiny to 10 on a scale of 10. We address burglar alarm systems, the signs of electoral manipulation, and action steps to be taken if another electoral heist appears to be in the works."

Web 2.0 and the Next Generation of Online Voter Registration

On June 19, 2007, Adam Klaus spoke in a session entitled "FRED". The description for the session was:

"Calling all online organizers, cyber politicos, bloggers, techie field types, all-around geeks, and anyone else interested in plotting a massive online voter registration campaign for 2008. Working Assets is preparing to launch our new voter registration tool -- including an API and widget -- that will provide easy options for anyone to embed the registration process virtually anywhere on the web. Partner Rock the Vote will present on their plans to target young voters online. Join us to strategize on how we can mount the largest voter registration drive ever."

Just Business: Progressive Policy and Business Voices

On June 19, 2007, John Arensmeyer, Chuck Collins, Bill Foster, Lee Iacocca, Holly Sklar and Judy Wicks spoke in a session entitled "Just Business: Progressive Policy and Business Voices".

Health Care For All

On June 19, 2007, Diane Archer, Donna Edwards, Roger Hickey and Ned Lamont spoke in a session entitled "Health Care For All".

Democracy Works: Comprehensive Electoral Reform

On June 19, 2007, David Donnelly, Mark Green, Wade Henderson, Ellen Miller and Michael Waldman spoke in a session entitled "Democracy Works: Comprehensive Electoral Reform".

We Voted, Now What? Building a Youth Movement

On June 19, 2007, Biko Baker, Adam Klaus, Anna Lefer, Shamako Nobel, Gabe Pendas, Jefferson Smith and State Rep. Alisha Thomas Morgan spoke in a session entitled "We Voted, Now What? Building a Youth Movement".

Moving Up: New Progressive Infrastructure in the States

On June 19, 2007, Jeff Blodgett, Michael Huttner, Robert Kraig, Gloria Totten ad Kristina Wilfore spoke in a session entitled "Moving Up: New Progressive Infrastructure in the States".

References

↑ ^1.0 ^1.1 Take Back America 2007 - Agenda (accessed on May 13, 2010)
↑ Take Back America 2007 - Speakers (accessed on May 13, 2010)
↑ Take Back America 2007 - Sponsors (accessed on May 13, 2010)
↑ TBA 2007: Session: Our Time Has Come (accessed on May 13, 2010)

The 2008 Take Back America Conference was hosted by Campaign for America's Future and held from March 17 - 19 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, 2500 Calvert Street, Washington D.C.^[1]

About

The Conference was promoted as follows:^[1]

"In this critical year, Take Back America will bring together all of the tribes of the progressive movement—grassroots and netroots activists, elected officials, business owners, policy experts and more. Together, we will generate new power for our movement for change based on a new vision and bold ideas for an America that works for everyone, not just the few."

The five major themes seen to be "at the heart of the progressive agenda" were:^[1]

Economic Strategy for America in the Global Economy
Green Jobs for a Sustainable Energy Future
Quality, Affordable Health Care for All
Out of Iraq to Real Security
The New Social Justice Agenda

Speakers

The following is a list of the 116 people who spoke at the Conference:^[2]

Sponsors and Partners

The following organizations were sponsors or partners of the conference:^[3]

Conference Sponsors

Conference Partners

Exhibitors

Gala Awards Dinner

Dinner Co-Chairs

The following were dinner co-chairs for the gala:^[4]

Host Committee Members

The following were host committee members for the gala:^[4]

Sessions

The following is a list of the sessions and events which were held at the conference:^[5]

The Progressive Plan for Victory

On March 17, 2008, Dianne Archer, Robert Borosage, Donna Edwards and Van Jones spoke in the Opening Plenary entitled "The Progressive Plan for Victory".

Real Security: Emerging Challenges

On March 17, 2008, Tom Andrews, Joseph Cirincione and Johanna Mendelson Forman spoke in a session entitled "Real Security: Emerging Challenges".

Healthcare for All: The Plan to Get There

On March 17, 2008, Jacob Hacker, Roger Hickey and Ezra Klein spoke in a session entitled Healthcare for All: The Plan to Get There.

The Crackup of Conservatism

On March 17, 2008, Rick Perlstein, Cliff Schecter, State Representative Kyrsten Sinema and Mike Zielinski spoke in a session entitled "The Crackup of Conservatism".

Hope Is in the States: Leading the Way on Health Care and Immigration Reform

On March 17, 2008, Joel Barkin, The Honorable Spencer Coggs, Robert Kraig, Stephanie Luongo and Delegate Victor Ramirez spoke in a session entitled "Hope Is in the States: Leading the Way on Health Care and Immigration Reform".

Preparation: What to do to Position Yourself to Run and Win

On March 17, 2008, Mike Foley, Ryan Mello, Dean Nielsen and Erin Vilardi spoke in a session entitled "Preparation: What to do to Position Yourself to Run and Win". The description for the session was:

"This session will provide the A,B,Cs that go into one’s thinking and decision-making on whether to run for office. While each state has its own unique set of rules and laws that govern political campaigns, the basics of campaigning remain the same."

Six Fail Safe Steps to Developing and Delivering your Stump Speech

On March 17, 2008, Jennie Blackton spoke in a session entitled "Six Fail Safe Steps to Developing and Delivering your Stump Speech". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the basic elements of giving speeches, and will be offered at the beginning of the conference so candidates can then work individually with a specialist."

Campaign Planning 101: Developing the Right Campaign Plan to Win

On March 17, 2008, Luis Navarro, Michael Obermueller and Gia Vitali spoke in a session entitled "Campaign Planning 101: Developing the Right Campaign Plan to Win". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the fundamentals of organizing - how to identify progressive voters, communicate with those voters, get them out to vote on election day and create the right budget for your plan."

Angles of Vision: Big Media People's Media

On March 17, 2008, Eric Boehlert, Michael Calderone, Mark Green, Michael Hirsh, Cenk Uygur and Tracy Van Slyke spoke in a session entitled "Angles of Vision: Big Media People's Media".

Cool Cars, Green Grid

On March 17, 2008, Tom Collina spoke in a session entitled "Cool Cars, Green Grid: Plugging Vehicles into Renewable Energy to Reduce Oil Dependence and Climate Change". The description for the session was:

"Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles are coming. Come hear how electricity can replace oil, how renewable energy can replace fossil fuels, and how electric cars can make renewable energy more reliable. Its a win-win-win!"

What are Progressive Values? Tell Your Personal Story

On March 17, 2008, Edwin Rutsch and Joan Kuenz spoke in a session entitled "What are Progressive Values? Tell Your Personal Story". The description for the session was:

"At the core of every movement is a set of values. Filmmakers Edwin Rutsch and Joan Kuenz will lead a discussion on the question, "What are Progressive Values?" We'll go through some brainstorming exercises and discussions that will prepare you for being interviewed on the topic. You can tell your personal story of how those values became important to you."

Book Signing

On March 17, 2008, Eric Boehlert, author of Lapdogs: How the Press Rolled Over for Bush, Joe Cirincione, author of Bomb Scare: The History and Future of Nuclear Weapons and Jacob Hacker, author of The Great Risk Shift: The New Economic Insecurity and the Decline of the American Dream took part in a book signing session.

Out of the Hole: An Economy that Works for Working People

On March 17, 2008, Larry Cohen, Roger Hickey, Robert Kuttner and Andrea Batista Schlesinger spoke in a session entitled "Out of the Hole: An Economy that Works for Working People".

Book Signing

On March 17, 2008, Naomi Klein, author of The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism, Robert Kuttner, author of The Squandering of America: How the Failure of Our Politics Undermines Our Prosperity, Jonathan Steele, author of Defeat: Why America and Britain Lost Iraq and Eric Alterman took part in a book signing session.

Election 2008: The Map

On March 17, 2008, Mike Podhorzer, Matt Stoller, Gloria Totten and Kristina Wilfore spoke in a session entitled "Election 2008: The Map".

Global Warming: Meeting a Real and Present Danger

On March 17, 2008, Marjorie Alt, Adrienne Marie Brown, John Podesta, Carl Pope and Jessy Tolkan spoke in a session entitled "Global Warming: Meeting a Real and Present Danger".

A New Social Contract: Preserving the American Dream

On March 17, 2008, Kate Kahan, Karen Kornbluth, Miles Rapoport and Julie Smith spoke in a session entitled "A New Social Contract: Preserving the American Dream".

GRAND THEFT JESUS

On March 17, 2008, Rev. Ray Dubuque and Robert McElvaine spoke in a session entitled "GRAND THEFT JESUS - How the Right Kidnapped Jesus & Progressives Can Win Back Religious Voters". The description for the session was:

"Join Rev. Ray Dubuque and Robert McElvaine for this session to discuss themes common to Bob's new book, Grand Theft Jesus and Ray's web site Liberals Like Christ: how the wolves in sheep's clothing of our day--James Dobson, Pat Robertson, Joel Osteen, Tim LaHaye, Ann Coulter, et. al.--have kidnapped Jesus and how progressives can free him to be again the champion of our causes.

The Jesus Thieves continue to be taken by most of the media as actual spokesmen for Christianity. Yet what they preach is precisely the opposite of what Jesus taught. They sell an "Easy Jesus," which is similar to plans that tell us we can "lose weight without diet or exercise." This one, "ChristianityLite," tells us that we can "be saved without sacrifice or good works." By their current test of authentic Christian faith, i.e. opposition to abortion and gay marriage, Jesus wasn't a genuine "Christian," because he didn't condemn either practice, though both were common in his day. What he did talk about, constantly, was helping the poor and nonviolence.

Former Republican African American Congressman J.C. Watts' father used to say, "A black man voting for a Republican is like a chicken voting for Col. Sander's." The same is true of "Christians." Conservative Republicans are going to rue the day that they turned Christians on to politics, as more and more of the 75% of American voters who identify themselves as "Christians" come to the conclusion that the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. was right when he said that "Jesus Christ was one of the greatest liberal leaders of all time." Progressives need to enlist Jesus Followers in the war for justice and equality and against oppression of the poor and the weak, against immoral government policies at home and immoral wars abroad.

Among the subtopics to be explored in this session is how biblical literalism (which actually takes literally almost nothing Jesus said--what it reduces to the "Suggestions on the Mount") is a legacy of slavery. However, there is in a South a very different form of Christianity, one that inspired slaves, abolitionists, and the Civil Rights Movement. It is those progressive Christians who can be won--and are being won--back to progressive causes."

The Single Payer Health Care Movement and the Plans of the Democratic Presidential Nominee

On March 17, 2008, Representative John Conyers, Courtney Farr and Miles Mogulescu spoke in a session entitled "The Single Payer Health Care Movement and the Plans of the Democratic Presidential Nominee". The description for the session was:

"Many progressives believe that the only solution to America's health care crisis is a single payer/Medicare-For All system like H.R. 676 which has been introduced in Congress by John Conyers with 76 Congressional Co-Sponsors and the endorsement of over 200 union locals. Other progressives, including the Campaign for America's Future and the leading Democratic Presidential candidates support health reform which builds on the current privave insurance system and adds a public alternative that people can buy into. This session will discuss how supporters of single payer can use the fact that the Democrats have put health care reform at the center of the national agenda to build a mass movement for Medicare-For-All that goes beyond the specific proposals of the Democratic candidates."

Fundraising 101: Building your Base

On March 17, 2008, Chrstine Lange and Susan Markham spoke in a session entitled "Fundraising 101: Building your Base". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the fundamentals of creating and implementing a political fundraising plan."

Media Reform and High-Speed Internet for Everyone

On March 17, 2008, Steve Abbott, Julius Genachowski, Debbie Goldman, Susan Ness and Josh Silver spoke in a session entitled "Media Reform and High-Speed Internet for Everyone". The description for the session was:

"A high speed Internet connection will soon deliver nearly all media - television, radio, phone service, and of course, blogs and the Web. Join senior policy directors to Senators Obama and Clinton, along with the Communications Workers of America and Free Press to discuss the senators’ positions on media and how a broad coalition of labor, public interest and industry groups are uniting behind a national policy to bring fast, affordable, open Internet access to every American home."

Voter Contact 101: Connecting with Voters, Part I

On March 17, 2008, Steve Belhumuer, Kristen Crowell and Rudy López spoke in a session entitled "Voter Contact 101: Connecting with Voters, Part I". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the basics of connecting with voters by mail, phone, Internet and in the Field."

Progressive Values 101

On March 17, 2008, Luis Navarro and Gloria Totten spoke in a session entitled "Progressive Values 101: The Politics of Conviction, Part I". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover frameworks, messages and examples of how progressives can harness true political power and build a lasting political majority."

The New American Dream

On March 17, 2008, Benjamin Phelan spoke in a session entitled "The New American Dream". The description for the session was:

"There is now clear expert consensus that the American Dream is spinning us towards environmental and social catastrophe. Leading scientists report that the impact of industrial-consumerist culture is threatening to overwhelm our planet's ability to support life, while core American values of care, community, and international leadership have collapsed. Yet America's history is characterized by an impressive national capacity to re-write the human story for the better.

This session will take an in-depth look at the challenges arising from this dysfunctional model, and the traditional American values of ingenuity, community, individualism, and egalitarian democratic principals which can turn this off-course Titanic in a new direction, towards a technologically innovative, environmentally sustainable and socially just future that can serve as a model for developed and developing nations alike."

A Shared Agenda for The Great Lakes Region

On March 17, 2008, Patrick Clark spoke in a session entitled "A Shared Agenda for The Great Lakes Region". The description for the session was:

"America's post-industrial Midwest is fast becoming the Resurgent Rust Belt through innovative economic development, community organizing and progressive political networks. Many of these states also happen to be key swing states every few years, when the attention of both coasts and the Beltway is suddenly drawn to the heartland. Ever wonder why it seems that in spite of that, so few of the real issues effecting our region's cities and states ever get discussed in the course of the election cycle?

A group of organizers from Iowa to Pennsylvania are working together to start building a shared, progressive policy agenda that can change this. We'd like you to join us with your deep thoughts, 2 cents-worth and general complaints -- and a commitment to being a part of the solution."

Millennials Rising: Young Voters Revitalizing Democracy

On March 17, 2008, Carmen Berkley, Anthony Daniels, Anton Gunn and Heather Smith spoke in a session entitled "Millennials Rising: Young Voters Revitalizing Democracy".

Out of Iraq: The Strategy to End the War

On March 17, 2008, Darcy Burner, Leslie Cagan, John Cavanagh, Nita Chaudhary, Camilo Mejia, Eli Pariser and Tom Swan spoke in a session entitled "Out of Iraq: The Strategy to End the War".

Debt and Debacle: America in the Global Economy

On March 17, 2008, Sarita Gupta, Rob Johnson, Naomi Klein and David Sirota spoke in a session entitled "Debt and Debacle: America in the Global Economy".

Politics the Wellstone Way: Field and Base Vote Organizing

On March 17, 2008, Erik Peterson spoke in a session entitled "Politics the Wellstone Way: Field and Base Vote Organizing".

Six Fail Safe Steps to Developing and Delivering your Stump Speech

On March 17, 2008, Jennie Blackton spoke in a session entitled "Six Fail Safe Steps to Developing and Delivering your Stump Speech". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the basic elements of giving speeches, and will be offered at the beginning of the conference so candidates can then work individually with a specialist."

Fundraising 101: Building your Base

On March 17, 2008, Anna Ekindjian and Cynthia Leigh spoke in a session entitled "Fundraising 101: Building your Base". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the fundamentals of creating and implementing a political fundraising plan."

Does Your Vote Count? Fixing A Flawed Election System

On March 17, 2008, Judith Brown, Regina Eaton, Deborah Goldberg, Ashindi Maxton and State Senator Jamie Raskin spoke in a session entitled "Does Your Vote Count? Fixing A Flawed Election System". The description for the session was:

"The right to vote is a foundational principle of our democracy, however, millions of voters in this country are disenfranchised every election cycle. A strong democracy, and a participatory democracy, is essential for realizing the goal of a more inclusive America. Data clearly shows that voters are losing faith in our election system - more than 1 in 5 Americans question whether their vote in the last presidential election was counted fairly. Widespread systemic problems persist, disproportionately affecting certain groups of voters, and contributing to reduced public confidence in the integrity of our elections. This panel will discuss the work that is being done to eliminate barriers to voter participation and to ensure that every vote is counted by implementing proactive reforms at the local, state, and national level."

Brainstorming for Effective Activitism

On March 17, 2008, Beth Brenneman spoke in a session entitled "Brainstorming for Effective Activitism". The description for the session was:

"Panel and Audience will brainstorm on the most effective activism techniques for awakening our fellow citizens and influencing our "less-than-reponsive" government."

Tapping the Power of Stories to Strengthen Your Stump Speech or Organizational Message

On March 17, 2008, Rob Kall spoke in a session entitled "Tapping the Power of Stories to Strengthen Your Stump Speech or Organizational Message". The description for the session was:

"Any talk that has stories included in them will hold attention and touch the listener far more powerfully than a talk that is just about facts and issues. This presentation will show you how to find the stories in your life or organization and then work them into your presentations."

Meet the Authors Coffee Break

On March 17, 2008, Campaign for America's Future authors: Rick Perlstein, authors of Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus, David Sirota, author of Hostile Takeover: How Big Money and Corruption Conquered Our Government--And How We Take It Back and Bill Scher, author of Wait! Don't Move to Canada: A Stay-and-Fight Strategy to Win Back America participated in a "Meet the Authors Coffee Break".

Pizza & Pasta Dinner

On March 17, 2008, Senator James Webb hosted a "Pizza & Pasta Dinner".

Film Night

On March 17, 2008, Lara Bergthold and Phil Donahue introduced a "Film Night" featuring Pete Seeger: The Power of Song and Body of War.

NEXT GENERATION'S PROGRESSIVE ST. PAT'S PARTY

On March 17, 2008, FRED spoke in a session entitled "NEXT GENERATION'S PROGRESSIVE ST. PAT'S PARTY". The party was hosted by Young People For, Living Liberally, Center for Progressive Leadership's New Leader's Program, Rock the Vote, The Roosevelt Institution, Campus Progress, Young Democrats of America, CREDO Action and Generational Alliance members Generation Change, The League of Young Voters Education Fund, United States Student Association, Campus Camp Wellstone, the Ruckus Society and WireTap. The description for the party was:

"Join young progressive leaders for an evening of networking, comedy, drinks and more."

How Valuable Are Your Sexuality and Your Sexual Free Speech?

On March 18, 2008, Crystal Haidl spoke in a session entitled "How Valuable Are Your Sexuality and Your Sexual Free Speech?". The description for the session was:

"You must be 18 or over to attend this session.

Enjoy a little spicy intercourse (conversation) with your breakfast croissant at this early morning session.

Along with a provocative on- the- spot survey to start us off, we'll explore the current influence of media, the Internet, government, corporate and even mom- and- pop America on your sexual speech and behavior. How important is sex to you and society ? Be surprised and expect to add controversy.

other panelists and multi-media ideas are welcome-- (this description willl be more fully expanded as the session more fully develops)"

Volunteers Gone Wild! House Party Activism and Member-Driven Events

On March 18, 2008, David Salie spoke in a session entitled "Volunteers Gone Wild! House Party Activism and Member-Driven Events". The description for the session was:

"Discuss best practices in developing and deploying a house party strategy for fundraising, listbuilding, member engagement, and media cultivation."

Progressive Movement in a Democratic Era

On March 18, 2008, [[Taylor Branch Reverend Jesse Jackson]] and Roger Wilkins spoke in a session entitled "Progressive Movement in a Democratic Era: The Lessons of King and the Civil Rights Movement".

Building Political Power from the Ground Up

On March 18, 2008, Doug Kelly, Greg Speed and Gloria Totten spoke in a session entitled "Building Political Power from the Ground Up".

The Emerging New Progressive Majority

On March 18, 2008, Page Gardner, Anna Greenberg, Eric Lotke, Cecilia Munoz and Karen Nussbaum spoke in a session entitled "The Emerging New Progressive Majority".

The Republic against the Rogue Presidency

On March 18, 2008, David Cole, Representative John Conyers and Christy Hardin Smith spoke in a session entitled "The Republic against the Rogue Presidency".

Blog Power: 2008 and Beyond

On March 18, 2008, Chris Bowers, Digby Digby, Terrance Heath, Ari Melber, Tracy Russo and Pam Spaulding spoke in a session entitled "Blog Power: 2008 and Beyond".

Immigrants and the Soul of America

On March 18, 2008, Cristina Lopez, Adam Luna, Ali Noorani, Frank Sharry and Jamila Woods-Jones spoke in a session entitled "Immigrants and the Soul of America".

Relationship Building: Getting Endorsements and Support from Progressive Organizations and Constituency Groups

On March 18, 2008, Crisanta Duran, Edie Gilliss, Peter Goldin and Anne Bomstad Miller spoke in a session entitled "Relationship Building: Getting Endorsements and Support from Progressive Organizations and Constituency Groups". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover strategies for reaching out to progressive communities (e.g. labor, reproductive choice, environmental, GLBT, etc.), garnering key endorsements and maximizing ways to utilize those endorsements."

Moving and Managing your Message: Enhancing Media Opportunities

On March 18, 2008, Adam Green and Ann Liston spoke in a session entitled "Moving and Managing your Message: Enhancing Media Opportunities". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the basics elements of a strategic media communications plan, including message development and management and understanding media tools (from newspaper to radio to TV to the internet and blogs)."

Advanced Progressive Values 201: Voicing Your Values to Persuade Voters

On March 18, 2008, Bernie Horn, Tim McFeeley spoke in a session entitled "Advanced Progressive Values 201: Voicing Your Values to Persuade Voters". The description for the session was:

"The purpose of this workshop is to explain how to use progressive values to persuade voters that you share their values and that you are on their side."

Speaking American About Our Issues

On March 18, 2008, Susan C. Strong spoke in a session entitled "Speaking American About Our Issues". The description for the session was:

"Communicating successfully with mainstream Americans about progressive issues is our biggest challenge. We need to use language that can evoke the ideal American values we too share. In this session, we'll start with a brief overview of what The Metaphor Project provides free of charge online, to help progressives do this. Then we'll move on to best ways to use the MP's tested steps and tools (see http://www.metaphorproject.org) via a sample issue. We'll finish up by talking about what "speaking American" could do for your issue. (The Metaphor Project has been building progressive capacity to reach mainstream audiences since 1997.)"

Change the Conversation

On March 18, 2008, Anasa Troutman spoke in a session entitled "Change the Conversation". The description for the session was:

"It's not about the candidate it's about us!"

Book Signing

On March 18, 2008, David Cole, author of Less Safe, Less Free: Why America Is Losing the War on Terror and Bracken Hendricks, author of Apollo's Fire: Igniting America's Clean Energy Economy participated in a "Book Signing".

The New Green Deal

On March 18, 2008, Phil Angelides, Majora Carter and Joel Rogers spoke at a luncheon entitled "The New Green Deal".

Book Signing

On March 18, 2008, Larry Korb, author of Reshaping America's Military: Four Alternatives, Jared Bernstein, author of Crunch: If the Economy's Doing So Well, Why Do I Feel So Squeezed?, Robert Pollin, author of A Measure of Fairness: The Economics of Living Wages and Minimum Wages in the United States and Eric Alterman, author of Why We're Liberals: A Political Handbook for Post Bush America participated in a "Book Signing".

Race Matters: Progressive Transformation in the 21st Century

On March 18, 2008, Katherine Abisa, Dennis Parker and Maya Wiley spoke in a session entitled "Race Matters: Progressive Transformation in the 21st Century".

Challenging the Second Gilded Age

On March 18, 2008, Chuck Collins, Barbara Ehrenreich and Bill Gates Sr. spoke in a session entitled "Challenging the Second Gilded Age".

Healthcare: Building a Coalition to Win

On March 18, 2008, John Arensmeyer, Barbara Coufal, Roger Hickey, Richard Kirsch, Khalid Pitts and Marvin Randolph spoke in a session entitled "Healthcare: Building a Coalition to Win".

Empowering Workers: Progressive Imperative

On March 18, 2008, Stewart Acuff, Mary Beth Maxwell, Hilary Shelton and Greg Tarpinian spoke in a session entitled "Empowering Workers: Progressive Imperative".

Arguing our Case: Pros and Cons

On March 18, 2008, Martin Collier, John Halpin, Celinda Lake and Dr. Drew Westen spoke in a session entitled "Arguing our Case: Pros and Cons".

Voter Contact 101: Connecting with Voters, Part I

On March 18, 2008, Ari Appel, Sharon Lettman, Ed Sanders and Marcos Vilar spoke in a session entitled "Voter Contact 101: Connecting with Voters, Part I". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the basics of connecting with voters by mail, phone, Internet and in the Field"

Finding Support, Seizing Opportunities and Addressing Challenges in Underserved Communities

On March 18, 2008, Kweli Kitwana, Cherese Williams, Ramona Fonseca and Tressa Feher spoke in a session entitled "Finding Support, Seizing Opportunities and Addressing Challenges in Underserved Communities". The description for the session was:

"This session will provide a forum for candidates and elected officials to share information, insights and stories about their experiences and perspectives as candidates or officials from underserved communities."

Advanced Fundraising 201: Practice your Pitches, Plans and More

On March 18, 2008, Ann Liston and Megan Van Ens spoke in a session entitled "Advanced Fundraising 201: Practice your Pitches, Plans and More". The description for the session was:

"This session is a follow-up to Voter Contact 101, and will provide an opportunity for participants to take the skills they learned to role-play and create their own mail, phone, Internet and canvassing scripts and plans."

Mobile Activism

On March 18, 2008, Becky Bond spoke in a session entitled "Mobile Activism". The description for the session was:

"Join CREDO Mobile and a group of successful practitioners for a discussion of the new frontier in progressive activism: the mobile phone. Find out how a variety of organizations and campaigns have literally put the power into their activists’ hands through innovative text messaging and mobile content campaigns. Learn what approaches lead to more successful advocacy and organizing and what is not appropriate to do on the phone."

Election Protection 2008

On March 18, 2008, Allegra Dengler spoke in a session entitled "Election Protection 2008". The description for the session was:

"Experts on election fraud will discuss practical ways to insure that every voter that comes to the polls in November gets to vote, and that their votes are properly counted. In 2004, the voters' choice was blocked by caging lists, vote-flipping on electronic voting machines. purging of voter rolls, voter intimidation, long lines due to machine breakdowns or lack of sufficient working machines, and a whole long list of dirty tricks, Let'/s not let that happen this November."

Book Signing

On March 18, 2008, Drew Westen, author of The Political Brain: The Role of Emotion in Deciding the Fate of the Nation, Bernie Horn, author of Framing the Future: How Progressive Values Can Win Elections and Influence People and Bob Creamer, author of Listen to Your Mother: Stand Up Straight: How Progressives Can Win participated in a "Book Signing".

Consensus and Organizing Tent City Protests - Summer 2008

On March 18, 2008, C.T. Butler spoke in a session entitled "Consensus and Organizing Tent City Protests - Summer 2008". The description for the session was:

"Food Not Bombs co-founder and developer of Formal Consensus, C.T. Butler, will host a workshop on the use of Formal Consensus in organizing this summer's tent city protests against militarism and unbridled destruction of freedom and democracy by local chapters of Food Not Bombs, Code Pink, Veteran's for Peace, Iraqi Moratorium, Voices for Creative Nonviolence, worldwide. www.consensus.net/tent_city_protest.html"

Turning A Red State Blue

On March 18, 2008, Shawn O'Donnell spoke in a session entitled "Turning A Red State Blue". The description for the session was:

"From core values to being part of the 50 state strategy ... participants will learn what it takes to turn a red state blue ... and leave with tools to make it happen"

Imperial Sorrows: The Domestic Costs of Policing the Globe

On March 18, 2008, Jared Bernstein, Lawrence Korb, Robert Pollin and Susan Shaer spoke in a session entitled "Imperial Sorrows: The Domestic Costs of Policing the Globe".

New Media, New Motion: New Avenues for Activism

On March 18, 2008, Dr. Alan Bean, Adam Green, Robert Greenwald, Jane Hamsher and Michael Kieschnick spoke in a session entitled "New Media, New Motion: New Avenues for Activism".

The Courts: Your Constitutional Rights in Jeopardy

On March 18, 2008, Emily Bazelon, Simon Heller, Kathryn Kolbert, Bill Lurye and Nancy Zirkin spoke in a session entitled "The Courts: Your Constitutional Rights in Jeopardy".

The Housing Bust: Causes, Cures, and Impact on the Whole Economy

On March 18, 2008, Dean Baker, Theresa DiMartino, Al Meyerhoff and Lisa Ransom spoke in a session entitled "The Housing Bust: Causes, Cures, and Impact on the Whole Economy".

Advanced Campaign Planning 201: Practice, Plan and Learn

On March 18, 2008, Nicholl Caruso, Kweli Kitwana and Mark Lotwis spoke in a session entitled "Advanced Campaign Planning 201: Practice, Plan and Learn". The description for the session was:

"This session will offer more detailed information about budgeting and targeting, and will provide an opportunity for participants to apply what they’ve learned through mock budgeting, targeting and campaign planning."

Managing Conflicts: Understanding How Healthy Conflict-Resolution Methods Can Advance Your Campaign

On March 18, 2008, Bernie Horn and Tim McFeeley spoke in a session entitled "Managing Conflicts: Understanding How Healthy Conflict-Resolution Methods Can Advance Your Campaign". The description for the session was:

"The goal of this workshop is to understand how people resolve conflicts in different ways and using that knowledge to build a strong campaign team."

Online Communications: Using the Internet to Recruit and Communicate with Voters, Donors and the Press

On March 18, 2008, Darcy Burner, Jen Caltrider, Jeff Coryell and Jeff Lucas spoke in a session entitled "Online Communications: Using the Internet to Recruit and Communicate with Voters, Donors and the Press". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover the basics of using the Internet (including blogs) as a campaign tool to communicate, educate, raise funds, organize, mobilize voters and network with new audiences."

A Review of Latino and African American Politics and the Impact in the 2008 Election

On March 18, 2008, Cesar Moreno Perez spoke in a session entitled "A Review of Latino and African American Politics and the Impact in the 2008 Election". The description for the session was:

"The session will review the political landscape of both communities in terms of minority-majority cities and state and federal districts, and analyze the prospects for electoral coalition building and the impact of the minority vote in the 2008 presidential primaries and general elections."

Buiding a Youth Coalition

On March 18, 2008, Nate Loewentheil spoke in a session entitled "Buiding a Youth Coalition". The description for the session was:

"2008 is the first year in which the Millennial generation has asserted its powerful voice. The youth vote, of those aged 18 to 30, has already played a huge role in the 2008 elections. Young people have helped fuel certain candidates and derail others, forcing all campaigns to revise their strategies and their messages. As the political power of our generation grows and is recognized, increasing numbers of individuals and organizations will step forward and claim to speak on our behalf.

What issues are of the most importance to young people? Can we speak of a coherent youth voice? What are the divides between students and non-students, white communities and communities of color, and lines of geography and class? This panel will feature organizations representing grassroots memberships, and discuss what issues unite young people. The right constellation of issues will be able to build on the energy generated by the elections and continue the fight for the progressive causes. Those that are important to young people, at least."

Meet the Authors Coffee Break

On March 17, 2008, Campaign for America's Future authors: Rick Perlstein, author of Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus, David Sirota, author of Hostile Takeover: How Big Money and Corruption Conquered Our Government--And How We Take It Back and Bill Scher, author of Wait! Don't Move to Canada: A Stay-and-Fight Strategy to Win Back America participated in a "Meet the Authors Coffee Break".

Gala Awards Dinner

On March 18, 2008, Representative Jan Schakowsky was presented with an America's Future Progressive Champion Award by William McNary; Majora Carter and Van Jones were presented with the Paul Wellstone Citizen Leadership Award by Jerome Ringo; and Norman Lear was presented with the America's Future Lifetime Leadership Award by Bill Moyers at the Gala Awards Dinner. Kathleen Turner was the Master of Ceremonies for the event.

Come Party with CREDO Mobile and George W. Bush

On March 18, 2008, James Adomian and Michael Kieschnick hosted a party entitled "Come Party with CREDO Mobile and George W. Bush". The description for the party was:

"If we’re going to take back America, we’ll need to take time to laugh along the way. Close out your day with a drink and a few laughs courtesy of George W. Bush—or at least his impersonator the comic James Adomian—and CREDO Mobile. Meet CREDO President Michael Kieschnick and the CREDO political staff. Bring your CREDO Mobile phone and get a special party favor."

Ending America's Longest Domestic War

On March 19, 2008, Deborah Small spoke in a session entitled "Ending America's Longest Domestic War". The description for the session was:

"This session discusses the relationship between the "war on terror" and the "war on drugs". In many ways the developing tactics and policies of the domestic "war on terror" have their roots in the tactics and practices developed to fight the "war on drugs" e.g. covert surveillance, reliance on confidential informants, guilt by association and lengthy terms of confinement. This session examines these issues and explores strategies for reform and activities we can all engage in to end this wasteful and ineffective war on ourselves and our neighbors."

Hold on, we're getting the good stuff: Restore the Constitution, Demand Impeachment

On March 19, 2008, Joan Stallard, Jodie Benjamin, Medea Benjamin, and Gael Murphy spoke in a session entitled "Hold on, we're getting the good stuff: Restore the Constitution, Demand Impeachment". The description for the session was:

"Should we put the "war tail" on the donkey? We'll be discussing ways to end the Iraq occupation, impeachment, and tax resistance. Come prepared to present your ideas as there will be an open mike. CODEPINK co-founders Jodie Benjamin, Medea Benjamin, and Gael Murphy will talk about their plans and solicit your ideas. We'll be taking notes."

Bushed: Conservative Failure and the Danger the Legacy Lives On

On March 19, 2008, Jared Bernstein, Arianna Huffington and Brad Woodhouse spoke in a session entitled "Bushed: Conservative Failure and the Danger the Legacy Lives On".

Reflections on God and Country from the Left

On March 19, 2008, Norman Lear spoke in a session entitled "Reflections on God and Country from the Left". The session was introduced by Iara Peng of Young People For.

Advanced Voter Contact 201: The Practice of Connecting with Voters, Part II

On March 19, 2008, Matt Filner, John Jameson and Belen Mendoza spoke in a session entitled "Advanced Voter Contact 201: The Practice of Connecting with Voters, Part II".

Building Relationships: Diversifying and Expanding your Base

On March 19, 2008, Edna Brown, Christine Chen, Andrew Gillum and Kristina Logsdon spoke in a session entitled "Building Relationships: Diversifying and Expanding your Base". The description for the session was:

"This session will help participants become more effective at working politically with under-represented communities, including communities of color, young people, GLBT communities, etc.)."

Building a Movement: Using Campaigns and Collaboration to Create Long-Term Change

On March 19, 2008, Dante J. James and Peter Murray spoke in a session entitled "Building a Movement: Using Campaigns and Collaboration to Create Long-Term Change". The description for the session was:

"This session will cover strategies and ideas for approaching progressive efforts in 2008 that won’t just help us win this year, but will help build a movement for long-term success."

The Economics of Shared Prosperity

On March 19, 2008, William Darity, Tamara Draut, Larry Mishel and Rich Trumka spoke in a session entitled "The Economics of Shared Prosperity".

Soul Train: New Religious Activism and the Common Good

On March 19, 2008, Katie Barge, Gabe Gonzalez, Rev. Derrick Harkins, Rev. Brian McLaren, Rev. Ron Stief and Amy Sullivan spoke in a session entitled "Soul Train: New Religious Activism and the Common Good".

Health Care: The Politics of Winning

On March 19, 2008, Bob Creamer, Celinda Lake, Maggie Mahar and Louise Novotny spoke in a session entitled "Health Care: The Politics of Winning".

Hold on, we're getting the good stuff: Making Political Parties More Democratic - Progressive Reforms for Party Nominations

On March 19, 2008, Adam Fogel spoke in a session entitled "Hold on, we're getting the good stuff: Making Political Parties More Democratic - Progressive Reforms for Party Nominations". The description for the session was:

"Reforms and actions that political parties can undertake to democratize their primaries. Topics will include defanging superdelegates, youth voting in primaries, reforming the nominations calendar, and instant runoff voting."

Hold on, we're getting the good stuff: Beating right Wing 527s on National Security

On March 19, 2008, Lorelei Kelly spoke in a session entitled "Hold on, we're getting the good stuff: Beating right Wing 527s on National Security".

Book Signing

On March 19, 2008, Tamara Draut, author of Strapped: Why America's 20- and 30-Somethings Can't Get Ahead, Amy Sullivan, author of The Party Faithful: How and Why Democrats Are Closing the God Gap, Brian McLaren, author of Everything Must Change: Jesus, Global Crises, and a Revolution of Hope and Maggie Mahar, author of Money-Driven Medicine: The Real Reason Health Care Costs So Much participated in a "Book Signing".

Luncheon

On March 19, 2008, James Adomian spoke on "Laughing Liberally" which was followed by the Maria Leavey Tribute Award Presentation which was introduced by Robert Borosage. The award was presented by Ari Lipman, a 2007 Maria Leavey Tribute Award Honoree.

Maria Leavey Tribute Award Presentation

On March 19, 2008, Robert Borosage and Robert Greenwald spoke in a session entitled "Maria Leavey Tribute Award Presentation". The description for the session was:

"Our second annual Maria Leavey Tribute Award will be presented at Take Back America 2008. The award honors an unsung hero of the progressive movement whose behind-the-scenes work and selfless service has made a big contribution to social justice.

Taking Back America: Progressive Strategies in a New Era

On March 19, 2008, Deepak Bhargava, The Honorable David Bonior, Anna Burger and Cecile Richards spoke in the closing plenary entitled "Taking Back America: Progressive Strategies in a New Era".

References

↑ ^1.0 ^1.1 ^1.2 Take Back America 2008 - Details (accessed on May 11, 2010)
↑ Take Back America 2008 - Speakers (accessed on May 11, 2010)
↑ Campaign for America's Future website: Take Back America 2008 - Sponsors (accessed on May 12, 2010)
↑ ^4.0 ^4.1 Campaign for America's Future website: Gala Awards Dinner (accessed on May 12, 2010)
↑ Campaign for America's Future website: Take Back America 2008 - Agenda (accessed on May 11, 2010)

References

Template:Conferences

[agenda-1] 1.0 ^1.1 Take Back America 2007 - Agenda (accessed on May 13, 2010)

[2] Take Back America 2007 - Speakers (accessed on May 13, 2010)

[3] Take Back America 2007 - Sponsors (accessed on May 13, 2010)

[4] TBA 2007: Session: Our Time Has Come (accessed on May 13, 2010)

[details-5] 1.0 ^1.1 ^1.2 Take Back America 2008 - Details (accessed on May 11, 2010)

[6] Take Back America 2008 - Speakers (accessed on May 11, 2010)

[7] Campaign for America's Future website: Take Back America 2008 - Sponsors (accessed on May 12, 2010)

[gala-8] 4.0 ^4.1 Campaign for America's Future website: Gala Awards Dinner (accessed on May 12, 2010)

[9] Campaign for America's Future website: Take Back America 2008 - Agenda (accessed on May 11, 2010)

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