Word: cca
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...plurality rather than PR election, the CCA maintains, the Irish minority of 30% could control the two governing bodies. On occasions, another large ethnic group, the Italians, might gain some representation. But the numerous other subgroups within the city, particularly the greater-Harvard, greater-Brattle St. area of wealthy and upper middle classes, would have no say in City government. With PR, however, the CCA can organize support for a slate of candidates and elect some of them...
...CCA membership includes many types of people: solid citizen businessman, who does not want his financial interests subverted by politicians who might try to squeeze more taxes for their own profit; the young, liberal Democrat, favoring a clean city government, free of the bad qualities of bossism; and natural minorities like Jews and Negroes who see the CCA as a road by which they can express and protect their interests...
...city politics, the University carefully refrains from taking official stands. Any Harvard support for a particular candidate or issue immediately arouses deep antagonisms, especially among less privileged, less informed voters. Nonetheless, the University is by nature obligated to protect its own interests, which generally correspond to those of the CCA...
Hence, while the University administration officially remains neutral, tacit support goes to the CCA as a whole; individuals within Harvard provide overt support. Major public support must thus come from the individuals, lest it seems the institution is trying to control City Hall. If the Cambridge electorate feels Harvard is trying to control it, the University will never build a good working relationship...
...CCA, representing the progressive, intellectual elements within the city, has played this linking role of political savvy with moral concern so important to the University. Because of its influence, no threats to turn the Yard into a parking lot or to run the proposed belt highway by Thayer Hall have carried much weight...