Community organizers explain work, reject GOP criticism

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) Some community organizers are expressing anger at what they believe are cheap shots from speakers at the Republican National Convention.

Former New YOrk Mayor Rudy Giuliani mocked Barack Obama's experience as a community organizer. So did vice presidential nominee sarah palin. The Alaska governor said unlike community organizers, small-town mayors have actual responsibility.

Organizers call the remarks insulting. They say they help the powerless fight for better schools and safer communities.

One community activist says if politicians were doing their jobs, there would be no need for community organizers.

The head of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights says he doesn't like to see the hard work of organizers "being demeaned by cheap politicians."


(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-04-08 1919CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list