Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now

Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now was a community organization founded by Wade Rathke in 1970, with the goal of advocating for social justice and economic reform in the United States. The organization was known for its grassroots approach, working with local communities to address issues such as poverty, housing, and voter registration. ACORN had a significant presence in New Orleans, Los Angeles, and New York City, and worked with organizations such as the National Council of La Raza and the Service Employees International Union. The organization's efforts were often supported by liberal politicians, including Barack Obama and John Kerry.

● History

The history of ACORN dates back to 1970, when Wade Rathke founded the organization in Little Rock, Arkansas. Initially, the organization focused on issues such as welfare rights and labor rights, working with labor unions like the United Farm Workers and the AFL-CIO. In the 1980s, ACORN expanded its reach, opening offices in Chicago, Detroit, and Philadelphia. The organization played a key role in the Voting Rights Act of 1982 and worked with civil rights leaders such as Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton. ACORN also collaborated with community organizations like the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the League of United Latin American Citizens.

● Organization and Structure

The organization was structured as a non-profit organization, with a board of directors and a national office in New York City. ACORN had a strong presence in local communities, with offices in over 100 cities across the United States. The organization was led by Wade Rathke until 2008, when he was succeeded by Bertha Lewis. ACORN worked with a range of community organizations, including the National Coalition for the Homeless and the American Civil Liberties Union. The organization also received funding from foundations such as the Ford Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation.

● Activities and Controversies

ACORN was involved in a range of activities, including voter registration drives, protests, and lobbying efforts. The organization was a strong supporter of progressive causes, including health care reform and immigration reform. However, ACORN was also embroiled in several controversies, including allegations of voter fraud and embezzlement. The organization was criticized by conservative politicians, including Sarah Palin and Mitt Romney, and was the subject of several investigations by government agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service. ACORN also faced opposition from special interest groups like the National Rifle Association and the Chamber of Commerce.

● Notable Campaigns

ACORN was involved in several notable campaigns, including the Living Wage Campaign and the Foreclosure Prevention Campaign. The organization worked with labor unions such as the Service Employees International Union and the United Auto Workers to advocate for workers' rights. ACORN also played a key role in the 2008 presidential election, working with Barack Obama and the Democratic National Committee to register voters and get out the vote. The organization collaborated with community organizations like the National Organization for Women and the Human Rights Campaign to promote social justice and equality.

● Criticism and Legacy

Despite its achievements, ACORN faced significant criticism and controversy throughout its history. The organization was accused of financial mismanagement and corruption, and was the subject of several investigations by government agencies. In 2010, ACORN announced that it would be dissolving due to financial difficulties and negative publicity. The organization's legacy is complex, with some viewing it as a champion of social justice and others seeing it as a corrupt and ineffective organization. ACORN's work continues to be felt through organizations such as the New York Communities for Change and the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment, which were founded by former ACORN members and continue to advocate for progressive causes. The organization's impact can also be seen in the work of politicians like Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, who have continued to fight for social justice and economic reform. Category:Community organizations