If you can’t lick ‘em, join ‘em.

As most of you know, I have been concerned in recent years with the rise of corporate power and its ability to destroy our democracy. I would like to toss out an idea on how we the people could reverse this process.

Since the major tool that large vested interests have over our national life and elected officials is money, I am suggesting that a fund be established which would constitute, for lack of a better name, a “People’s Fund.” Contributions from large numbers of citizens ranging from an easily affordable $1 to $10.00 would form the bulk of “The People’s Fund.”

With hundreds of thousands of people contributing, this fund could conceivably consist of billions of dollars. No one or group would be allowed to contribute more than $10. This would prevent control by a few donors. The fund would be non-profit and run by a rotating Board of Directors with two year terms. This Board would distribute the funds.

Such a fund could do the following:

Fund start-up businesses that are environmentally friendly and serve the needs of the people. An example might be a business that develops alternative forms of energy. This could also provide a return to the Fund.

As long as soft money and PAC money is legal, it is a legalized form of bribery. This fund could “Bribe” elected officials to do right by the common person.

Purchase large blocks of shares of corporate stock to force corporations to do the right things.

Develop an alternative to the corporately owned media which screens out most material unfavorable to large institutions.

Develop web sites to inform and enlighten the populace.


There are many other projects that could also be funded. At this point, my purpose is merely to start a dialogue, not actually to start such a fund. Any comments or ideas would be appreciated.

Mel Hathorn