I feel your frustration.

I joined a Canadian political party in 1986 in hopes that I would have some influence. I spent hondreds of hours in many meetings in the back rooms.

98% of my effort was given to "winning the next election." Very little time was spent on policy development. We lower-middle-managers had a choice: accept the platform proferred by our leadership and do the mundane political work OR just not do the mundane political work--and never rise higher in the party.

It's very frustrating not be listened to. I served on many boards over the years. It takes me about six meetings before I can figure whether a fellow board is interested in what I am saying--or is just being polite while he/she tries to inflict his/her own version of what needs to be done.

Protesters don't have to deal with this crap. Just show up and carry sign and shout a little bit. Much easier than attending a meeting and listening.

It sounds like you are setting up a PAC of some kind. Even if this PAC gains a little power, it will fall to a similar dysfunction as many other volunteer groups.

It's time for a new way.