Oral Histories

Steve Dooley

   February 28, 2025

   

Field Organizer and Lead Organizer, DC ACORN, August 2002-July 2004; Head Organizer, Dallas/Ft. Worth ACORN, July 2004-June 2006

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1. February 28, 0025 Interviewed by Lindsay Zafir
2. February 28, 0025 Interviewed by Lindsay Zafir

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Steve Dooley describes entering ACORN in 2002, influenced by a politically active upbringing, travel, and post-9/11 organizing experiences. He explains his initial assignment with DC ACORN and outlines the daily structure of organizing work, including door-to-door outreach, member meetings, and campaign development. Dooley later became lead organizer in Washington, DC, before relocating to Texas in 2004 to direct the Dallas–Fort Worth ACORN chapters. His reflections emphasize how ACORN’s organizational model shaped his understanding of political engagement and campaign strategy. The interview concludes with his transition to work at the Center for Popular Democracy.