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On Thursday, Sept. 5th, during our first fall 2013 General Assembly, an open-ended discussion was held about the possibility of Occupy Portland adopting “Accreditation ID” Cards for all Occupy-affiliated organizers and activists. Originally labeled “Membership ID’s” but changed to be more inclusive, this was an extension of the already-initiated Vigil Membership ID Cards for homeless protesters and their allies, as many card-bearers suggested and approved of the idea of having identification broadened as a whole. The intent was to promote structure, balance group cohesion, boost morale, and be a token of appreciation and incentive. The card would be similar to that of the IWW and many community coalitions and campaigns.
Strict guidelines would be conceived with the card. Cards would be given to contributors regardless of race, class, gender or sexual orientation. The card would be given based simply on participation – attending meetings, marches, liaison work, or a combination of all three. Additions such as color, pictures, graphics or anything to symbolize accreditation “level” would be prohibited. Under no circumstances would the card be used for events, such as parties and gatherings, where only card-bearers would be allowed to attend.
Many questions were raised concerning the creation, regulation, and concept of the card. Who or what committee would administer? Who or what group would set the accreditation standards? Would you issue unsolicited cards? Would people apply for it? What about newcomers? If this is just a way to recognize people who contribute – would a gift or certificate be more appropriate? If a card-bearer were to commit autonomous acts of crime or sabotage, what would be the responsive and preventative protocol?
By the end of the discussion, it was clear that the proposed “Accreditation ID” card would hold more organizational weight than anybody expected. It was also clear that the current situation at the Vigil DOES NOT REFLECT the current situation and progress at the rest of Occupy Portland or its affinity groups. The consensus was to first establish the Vigil Membership ID Cards and conduct it like a test and find its effectiveness, then carry on further discussion and collaboration if it needs to be emulated.