First arrivals expected today, conference opens Friday
Jump to full article: (Madison, WI) Capital Times, 2002-06-13
Author: Judith Davidoff
Intro: Activists representing a variety of causes also are planning to use the meeting as a springboard for public forums and demonstrations on such issues as economic justice and corporate influence on public policy.
Cities for People!, a coalition of local groups, has scheduled a day of workshops on Saturday at the Madison Labor Temple featuring Santa Monica Mayor Mike Feinstein and Wisconsin Democratic activist Ed Garvey. . .
Organizers are still working to meet the $1 million private fund-raising goal Bauman set to cover entertainment costs for the mayors meeting. Major sponsors include Philip Morris, Madison Gas and Electric, American Family Insurance and Alliant Energy, among others. . .
With a $10,000 annual fee, such corporations as the Coca-Cola Co., Philip Morris, DuPont and Waste Management Inc. gain entrance to meetings of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and are provided periodic policy briefings during the year, among other perks.
Local activists are incensed that businesses can buy access to the mayors meeting while the general public is shut out. . .
"All these reform initiatives have not been in the best interest of the people," Miranda said. "They have been in the best interest of corporations that have taken advantage of the fact that our elected officials have surrendered the people's control of our resources." . .
"I think there's an awful lot of lack of understanding and an incredible readiness to claim that the mayors have sold out," she said. "Believe me, we haven't."
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