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Class Action
July 2007 E-news
1. Founders Challenge raises over $40,000
2. Class and Leisure
3. The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen
4. July Action Against Classism
5. Resources: Class and Leisure
6. Share your experience: Class Action Survey
7. Class Action 3rd Anniversary Potluck!
July 19th, in Northampton, MA
8.Class Action is Moving! SOON!
1. Founders Challenge raises over $40,000!
Over 185 people responded to the Founders' Challenge, raising over $40,000 in response to our first ever challenge grant. As of today, 117 new donors joined 58 existing Class Action donors to contribute $20,100 in new and increased gifts. Combined with the matching funds, this accounts for over $40,000 to raise awareness and inspire action against classism. Thank you to everyone who responded!
2. Class and Leisure
As we struggle with the impact of advertising on creating needs, class "status" symbols, consumption and its' environmental limits, and class cultures, Thorstein Veblen's theories have relevance for us today, even over a hundred years after they were first published.
3. Book of the Month:
The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen, written in 1899
reviewed by Matt Bannish
In an effort to avoid envious comparisons Americans have become consumed with consumption, perpetually readjusting the parameters of luxury and leisure. Read more....
You can read more Book of the Month selections in our book corner.
4. July Action Against Classism
Volunteer at your local YMCA in any capacity
The YMCA hosts a variety of summer programs and activities for local youths all over the country. The YMCA never turns anyone away due to an inability to pay. With locations nationwide there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer and help children participate who otherwise could not.
Become a proactive citizen and practice conscious consumption
Log on to New American Dream and sign up for email action alerts. These emails inform and inspire action to challenge consumerism and irrational economic activity. Actions include letters to the Senate, local and national petitions, and challenges for conscious consumption.
5. Resources: Class and Leisure
Find out how the top 1% vacations- A comment on Excess and Inequality brought to you by Too Much
See leisure as defined by the incredibly wealthy in the Lifestyles of the Rich and Shameless section here. The authors present factual descriptions of over-the-top vacations organized by high-income individuals, complete with price-tags. Veblen’s theories on the leisure class find especially strong resonance in this site.
After you read our book review, read about the legacy of the late economist Thorstein Veblen and discover the remarkable imprint he left on academic thinking. The author of this article sits in on a meeting of progressive economists as they grapple with the question, what would Veblen do and would he shop at Walmart ?
6. Share Your Experience: Class and Leisure
How does your class position effect what kind of vacations you can take?
Let us know at our survey page.
7. Class Action 3rd anniversary potluck!
Come celebrate Class Action's Birthday- our 3rd year as a non-profit!
Join Class Action staff, board members, volunteers and some of the most fun folks in the Valley as we mark and celebrate our work, bring together people who have participated in Class Action's programs, and have fun in the summer! RSVP to Sarah at 413.585.9709 x201 or email her.
LOOK PARK, NORTHAMPTON - JULY 19TH, 5-7 pm
What to bring:
*Potluck food--If your last name begins with...
A-H Entrees
I-P Salads, Fresh fruits/veggies
S-Z Beverages (non-alcoholic), Bread, Desserts, Snacks
*Bathing suit (if you want)
*Games you want to share
*Sports Equipment (balls, frisbees, bocce, etc.)
*Bug repellant
*Your friends, your family, your neighbors, and anyone else who likes to have fun
Class Action will provide plates, cups, utensils, the birthday cake, a ready-to-go grill, and bug repellant candles.
Look Park entry fee is $4 per car, free to walk or ride your bike in!
We have a pavilion so we'll be celebrating rain or shine!
8. Class Action is moving! SOON!
Later this summer we are moving just down the road to bigger and better digs. We would appreciate donations of office furniture (lamps, bookshelves, tables, desks) and painting help (to see a complete wish list click here). If anyone knows or is a generous contractor who could donate their expertise to us in order to replace the carpet, plumb in a sink, and do electrical/ IT work, please let us know! Contact Sarah at 413.585.9709 x201 or email
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