PREAMBLE
FOR A COMMUNITY FUNDED & OPERATED
ATHLETIC UNION IN THE
“CITY THAT WORKS”
CHICAGO
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The People of Chicago deserve an accessible option outside of Major League Soccer (or its monopolized corporations) to support on the weekends and to have their voices heard in the process. Keeping the culture of the People’s game in the hands of the working class and NOT in the portfolios of the billionaire class, is JUST AS IMPORTANT as growing the youth talent in this city and its neighborhoods.
Over the last few decades, the world has seen phoenix clubs rise from the ashes of failed organizations, supporter take-overs of their beloved club, and passion-led protest clubs. Rather it is Clapton FC in East London, FC United of Manchester, MFC 1871 in the historic neighborhood of Paris, PAC Omonia in Cyprus, or DeKalb United right here in Illinois. Supporters everywhere are beginning to want a say in their club’s day-to-day operation.
The working name for this group is Haymarket United. The word Haymarket has such a storied connection with Chicago’s prolonged labor history, we feel like it deserves the honor to keep telling the story of the souls that fought for a better living.
The main focus of this athletic union will be fielding both Men's & Women's competitive association football 11 vs 11 teams. Non-Binary teams/leagues/pick up games will be an option as well. There are dozens of clubs in Chicagoland playing in about three different leagues, so there are plenty of options.
During the winter months, 7 vs 7 turf and futsal teams will be a focus as well. Youth soccer, Rugby, Roller Derby, Hockey, Basketball, Bowling, and any other athletic and/or social activities are all options!
Anything is possible with community organization and proper fundraising.
With all of this in mind, this athletic union is built on the following
KEY PRINCIPLES:
With the rise of racist and fascist ideology throughout the world, this union is unapologetically:
Anti-Racist / Anti-Fascist
Anti-Sexist / Anti-Homophobic
Anti-Imperialistic
Other pillars supporting this organization are
pro-union/worker rights, and fighting for immigrant & refugees' right to peace.
Commercial sponsors and charity partners (and its products) should be in accord with the social and political responsibility of the club. The sale of goods and services are driven to be responsible and sustainable, both economically and environmentally. Merchandise and print will be ideally Union Made and of high quality.
Overt capitalism should not be the main focus of any football club. Any merchandise sold will be responsibly priced to cover costs, pay for labor, and help fund the growth of the club.The athletic union will be structured and democratically operated as a 501 Non-Profit Organization. Membership to join will be accessible for everyone, but no matter how much you pay or donate, one member equals one vote. Beginning on a shoe-string budget, volunteers are essential to making this work.
Committees to include, but not limited to:
General Organizing Board - Chair, Secretary and Treasurer
League and Match Day Liaison
Women’s First Team Development
Men’s First Team Development
Youth Training and Development
Community Outreach, Charity Liaison, and Other Club/Supporter Relationships
Communications / Social Media, Newsletters, Websites, etc…
Video and Photography
Merchandising and Artwork
Membership Liaison, Fundraising & Finances
Other Sporting Team Development & Concert/Event Planning
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