sodapopiowacaucuses

Frequently asked questions:

When and where is SODaPOP: the Iowa Caucuses?

This campaign will begin January 1, 2008, and end mid-day January 4, 2008, following the January 3 Iowa Caucuses. The campaign will take place in Des Moines, Iowa, the state capitol.

What will happen at SODaPOP: the Iowa Caucuses?

This three-day campaign will include a series of demonstrations and actions telling the nation that our national priorities must change and senseless wars must end. These actions will include visiting and/or occupying presidential campaign headquarters asking these candidates to make clear pledges to clear change. The week will also include meetings, discussion groups, and public lectures. Renowned activists will be among the speakers at these events. (Not to mention there will be a lot of fun social time with a lot of really wonderful and interesting people.) A tentative schedule can be read by clicking here.

Do I have to get arrested if I come?

Absolutely not. In fact, it is not the goal of SODaPOP for anyone to be arrested. Our goal is to persuade candidates and current elected officials to make a specific pledge for change. Some may choose to risk arrest toward achieving this goal. Others will not. Your presence and support is critical and important regardless. Those who do choose to risk arrest will be required to take our civil-disobedience training class which will be given a number of times that week.

What is SODaPOP asking candidates to do?

SODaPOP has presented each candidate with a specific list of agreements and has asked each candidate to sign a pledge to these agreements. You can read this list by clicking here.

Where can I stay?

There are many hotels in the area, but make your reservation early since thousands who are covering or connected to the Iowa caucuses will also be here. Some free housing is also available. If you need free housing, please let us know on Registration Form.

Can I come if I haven't registered?

Of course. If you decide to come at the last minute, that's great. But, we may not be able to find free housing for you. Check in at the Des Moines Catholic Worker, 1310 7th Street in Des Moines or call (515) 282-4781.

Do I have to come for the whole week?

No. You may join any or all of the week's actions.

What should I bring?

Warm clothing, hats, gloves, long underwear, heavy coats, boots, etc. and lots of them. Iowa can be bitterly cold and snowy in January, and we will be outside on occasion. Also, bring your unique talents and spirit as well as your commitment to and hope for peace and social justice.

What's not allowed?

Violence or hatred in any form in word or deed or message (including signage or literature). All participants are expected to agree to a specific pledge of non-violence throughout the campaign. In addition, we expect participants to not violate any local, state, or federal laws that are not an inherent part of an action of civil disobedience (e.g. illegal drugs, underage drinking, etc.) during the week. Participants are also expected to treat each other and those with whom we engage with courtesy and respect.

Is there an age requirement?

No, but we expect those younger than 18 to have parental or guardian support to participate.

I have more questions. Where can I get answers?

You may email any of the following people:

Jeff Leys, Voices for Creative Nonviolence, jeffleys@vcnv.org

Brian Terrell, Catholic Peace Ministries, Terrellcpm@yahoo.com

Frank Cordaro, Des Moines Catholic Worker Community, frank.cordaro@gmail.com

Mona Shaw, Des Moines Catholic Worker Community, sodapopiowa@yahoo.com

I'm coming! How do I let you know?

Email any of the folks above or complete the Registration Form by clicking here.

On January 3, 2008, the eyes of the nation and the world will be on Iowa, when Iowa becomes the first state in the nation to choose who will be the next president of the United States. Never before in history have the Iowa caucuses experienced--nor in this presidential campaign will one area of the nation likely receive--such intense international press and attention.

Seasons of Discontent: a Presidential Occupation Project (SODaPOP) wants to make sure the national spotlight is also on the hearts and minds of the American people as well as these candidates. SODaPOP will take this opportunity to remind our current and prospective leaders that the American people want an end to the war in Iraq and that we do not want to engage in future irresponsible and wasteful wars.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for your voice to be heard in a powerful way. This is our chance to not only dream of Democracy but to practice Democracy. It is a time for involved citizens to remind these candidates, our elected officials, and all of America, that it is, we, the people, who determine the future and the policies of our nation and not a few wealthy self-interests.

Please join us, and, for at least a few days, let's really make our nation what we want her to be.

is organized

by Voices for

Creative

Nonviolence, the Iowa Occupation Project, Des Moines Catholic Peace Ministries, and the Des Moines Catholic Worker Community. For more information about the project and/or its organizers, click here.