Skip to content
quotesby

A movement with some lasting organization is a lot less dramatic than a movement with a lot of demonstrations and a lot of marching and so forth. The more dramatic organization does catch attention quicker. Over the long haul, however, it's a lot more difficult to keep together because you're not building solid. ... A lasting organization is one in which people will continue to build, develop and move when you are not there.

Cesar Chavez#33

OrganizingStrategyMovementOrganizationSustainability

About this quote

What does it mean?
Lasting movements need solid organization, not just dramatic protests.
In plain terms
Build strong groups that last, not just quick demonstrations.
What can you take from it?
Sustainable change requires organization over spectacle.

Where it applies

  • community organizing
  • movement building

Putting it to work

  • focusing on infrastructure

Questions to consider

  • What makes a movement last?
  • Is drama useful or distracting?

Another view

It undervalues the role of public awareness campaigns.

More from Cesar Chavez

  1. Just as Dr. King was a disciple of Gandhi and Christ, we must now be Dr. King's disciples. Dr. King challenged us to work for a greater humanity. I only hope t…

    Permalink to quote #32
  2. A symbol is an important thing. That is why we chose an Aztec eagle. It gives pride... When people see it they know it means dignity.

    Permalink to quote #34
  3. My friends, the time for action is upon us. The enemies of justice wants you to think of Dr. King as only a civil rights leader, but he had a much broader agen…

    Permalink to quote #31

Related quotes

  1. Patzer sees a check, gives a check.

    Bobby FischerBobby Fischer quote #4
  2. I think if we call in the experts we can draw up the full scheme, with the rallying points arranged.

    Pietro BadoglioPietro Badoglio quote #4
  3. There is a fundamental difference between the appeal of a mass movement and the appeal of a practical organization. The practical organization offers opportuni…

    Eric HofferEric Hoffer quote #13