Breaking New Ground: Social Movement Theory and the Cincinnati Union Co-ops

This article provides a case study, based on original author research, about the start of the union co-op movement in Cincinnati a decade ago. The author views the formation of initial union co-ops through the lens of social movement theory. Doing so identifies mechanisms critical to the success of a local union co-op movement, including the following: emulation – where a group of people model their work on that of others; social appropriation – where a group of people involved in an organization with one purpose utilize the organization for a new purpose; diffusion of information – sharing knowledge to wide networks; brokerage – relying on known individuals and organizations to connect with other potential allies and supporters; and resources, such as amassing pooled cash, recruiting government support, and locating meeting space. Additionally, those involved in a successful union co-op movement must be adaptable, draw on a wide variety of experts, aggregate information, and engage in long-term planning. Leadership and a substantial commitment of time to the movement by the leaders was repeatedly recognized by the interviewees as crucial to success.