We are living in times where the political landscape has become visibly challenging for the institutions of democracy, social rights, minorities and natural resources. A united solidarity economy movement can give real alternatives that prioritize people and the planet over profit, offering sustainable and inclusive solutions to the dominant economic systems.
In both Europe and America, despite their differences, we are witnessing the rise of nationalist, exclusionary, and intolerant policies that threaten marginalized communities and the principles of equity and inclusion.
That is why it is now more important than ever, for Europe and the USA to create common understanding, to communicate and organize common activities with similar orientation, to emphasize local empowerment within a global framework.
Ripess Europe, in its effort to strengthen dialogue with the Solidarity Economy Νetwork USSEN, invited Kali Akuno for an introductory interview between the two networks. This interview stems from a shared desire to deepen the understanding of SSE’s roots and concepts across diverse continents and communities.
About the Speaker
Kali Akuno is Co-Founder and Co-Director of Cooperation Jackson, a network of worker cooperatives and community-led programs that sustain and grow a democratic, just and sustainable economy in Jackson, MS. Among these programs is the Fannie Lou Hamer Community Land Trust, which allows community members to collectively steward the land and creates opportunities for affordable property ownership.
About the SSE Association of Attika “Syntonismos” The Association of the Social Solidarity Economy of Attica – Coordination – is active in the Region of Attica. Its purpose is the collective representation of the actors and the dissemination of economic democracy, sustainability and self-management. For more information, visit their website at https://syn-kalo.org/
The US Solidarity Economy Network (USSEN) is a network for transformative economic change, championing a vision of a just and sustainable future for all. It unites diverse social movements working towards cooperative and postcapitalist economies through educational resources, and community-building efforts. As an umbrella organization, USSEN provides a supportive platform where individuals and organizations within the network can advance SE projects with guidance and assistance from our board and fellow members. For more information, visit their website at Home.
