May 20, 1998
Emily Nghiem
P.O. Box 981101
Houston, TX 77098
[edited from a letter]
Dear Ms. Nghiem:
Does it seem odd to you that according to Supreme Court decisions, giant, global corporations are considered "persons" and have greater constitutional rights and protections than humans . . . that of the world's largest 100 economies, 52 are multi-national corporations? Does it trouble you that . . . corporations are using their wealth to write our laws, elect our governments, and define our culture?
Richard Grossman, co-director of the Program on Corporations, Law, and Democracy (POCLAD) will present two seminars on these and related matters. Mr. Grossman was the founding director of Environmentalists for Full Employment (1976-1985) and Executive Director of Green Peace USA (1986-1988). As one of the foremost national scholars on the history of the development and abuse of corporate power, Mr. Grossman has done a great deal of research and has written several books and articles on this subject.
The first of the two seminars will be held in conjunction with Leisure Learning Unlimited (LLU) from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday evening, June 26, 1998. It will take place in one of LLU's classrooms in the Greenway Plaza area, at 2990 Richmond, near Kirby. This lecture and discussion will focus on the legal and social history of corporations, including:
(1) How early generations of Americans severely limited the scope and authority of corporations;
(2) How the corporate entity ultimately overpowered its creators - the public, or "we the people";
(3) How individuals and organizations can more effectively work to redefine the corporation's role in society.
We have invited members of every other progressive, environmental protection and social justice group active in the Houston area, so attendance at this seminar would be a good opportunity to network with these people. A fee of $19 per person will be charged. You may call LLU at (713)877-1981 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays to register.
We feel very honored to sponsor Mr. Grossman. The seminars will address the essence of the reasons that the Alliance for Democracy exists, and we strongly urge all members to support this effort with their attendance. People who have attended Mr. Grossman's seminars report that he is dynamic and has energized every group to which he has spoken. Hope to see you there!