The Citizen Solution

Nationally known community organizer and activist Harry C. Boyte incites readers to join today's "citizen movement," offering practical tools for how we can change the face of America by focusing on issues close to home. Targeting useful techniques for individuals to raise public consciousness and effectively motivate community-based groups, Boyte grounds his arguments in the country's tradition of "populism," demonstrating how mobilized citizens can be far more powerful than our frequently paralyzed politicians. He then offers practical tips on identifying potential citizen leaders and working through cultural differences without sacrificing identities. Each point is illustrated by inspiring real-life examples of Minnesotans who have promoted change: A cluster of suburban neighborhoods that came together to take back Sundays from overzealous youth-sports organizations. An immigrant community that created a cultural wellness center. An organization of multiracial, multifaith congregations that is tackling tough social problems. For readers doubting their ability to make a significant difference in our world, this how-to book will show the way. Harry C. Boyte is an activist, the author of several books, and a senior fellow at the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs. He cofounded the institute's nonpartisan Center for Democracy and Citizenship. Don Shelby, WCCO-TV, has won the nation's top journalism honors, and two Peabody awards.