On the surface, privatization may not look so bad. But delve deeper into this government's use of it, and it reeks of profiteering and mismanagement. I know it's a conservative way of thinking – smaller government and all that. But I doubt that Barry Goldwater thought it meant out-sourcing war, union-busting, and private armies patrolling the streets of New Orleans.

Here in Washington, the levees are breaking around our public schools, especially East of the River. The privatizers want us to believe that our only choice is between a decaying traditional public school system and unaccountable charter schools.

Join the Social Action & Leadership School for Activists (SALSA) and the Save Our Schools Coalition for a town hall meeting with community members, teachers, students and trade unionists as they share what they've learned about the privatization of our schools, with the SEED Charter Boarding School providing an example. Help take steps to stop the creation of separate and unequal school systems in DC. Your voices, talents and ideas are needed to rebuild our levee and our democracy.

This forum is free and open to the public, but space is limited so please pre-register with SALSA at 202/787-5229 or visit www.hotsalsa.org. Childcare will be provided.

When: Monday, June 12, from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m.
Where: Capitol View Library (5001 Central Ave. SE; Benning Road Metro)