Idea: DU Activist Corps Cell-phone Text Message Alert System

[Ian David]

PFAW had something like that set-up a while back.

And anyone can start their own text-message group that's carried across multiple providers.

It could be used for things like "DU Flash-mobs" "Rapid-Response Actions."

[NMDemDist2]

1. wow cool idea kick! n/t

[jokerman93]

2. Flash Mob Activism

An idea whose time has come. When I first heard about Flash Mobs as a kind of guerrilla theater a number of years ago, I realized its potential as a political weapon/strategy.

Let's explore this...

[longship]

3. It would be effective if not overused.

My experience...

Text messaging is great. I use it. It's kind of like IRC message that I can carry around with me. But if overused it can be a hassle.

It would be good to lay down exactly when cell phone messaging will be used and stick to those guidelines.

on edit: Also, messages should be very brief. The main content of the activism should come either from an accompanying e-mail (good) or a Web site (better).

[Ian David]

4. I would say that only one or two moderators should be allowed to post

We don't want 1,000 DU'ers text-messaging one another all day to say, "Hey, I think this will finally get Bush impeached."

We also don't want non-DU'ers thinking it's another "Booty Call" text-message group.

Each message should have a specific call-to-action, and/or be urgent in nature.

For example, "Fred Phelps makes surprise visit to gay bath house in Castro District-- and he's a customer! Join us outside!"

Or perhaps, "Call Senator X to demand investigation into Bush's live baby-eating activities."

[longship]

5. Now I've got to clean my display.

:spray: :rofl:

Never read a DU post with a mouthful of coffee.

[Somawas]

6. I know I'm a dinosaur, but

cell phones make baby Jesus cry.

[mcscajun]

7. Good idea, so long as it's not the only method of spreading info...

...those of us who have cellphones but eschew text messaging shouldn't be left out. :)

[Ian David]

8. We could have a good old fashioned "Calling Tree" for MAJOR crises

It would probably be way too expensive to have an automated calling robot, like the one that periodically calls me and says, "Hi, this is Senator John Kerry..."

And I think, "Oh, wow! Senator Kerry is calling me!"

"... and I blah blah blah... your generous donation..."

Damned Kennedy Grovel-bot...