Kaufmann article discussion

Our action campaign is focusing on closing down Guantanamo Bay. We realize this is a very complicated process that we found somewhat similar to the social movement of abolishing slavery discussed in the Kaufmann & Pape article.  In order for Guantanamo Bay to be closed down permanently a very special set of circumstances will have to occur such as support of the citizens, a majority vote in Congress and an opportunity/location to transfer prisoners (just to name a few!) We found that achieving this combination of events would be somewhat similar to the seemingly accidental circumstances that allowed Britain to abolish slavery.

The events that allowed the abolition of slavery in Britain were summarized on page 644-45 as:
1) happening within Britain 2)cultural imperialism: not taking into account other nation's views 3)fixing corruption in English society and 4)a favorable environment to form coalitions in support of the movement. Although closing Guantanamo will require different circumstances there is some overlap such as fixing corruption, and an environment for support. This again illustrates the point that every social movement must be brought about by unique strategies.