Session Resources: Saturday, February 20
Restoring Environmental Stewardship and the Pursuit of Ecojustice
9:00–10:15 a.m.
Learn about the connection between environmental injustice and systemic racism and what this means for communities hardest hit by lack of environmental controls. Of particular interest are unregulated utilities (Muni Co-ops) and their continued reliance on fossil fuels and resistance to clean energy initiatives. How can our younger generations’ interest in environmental stewardship be leveraged for community engagement?
After the Graduated Rate Income Tax Campaign: Now What?
10:30–11:30 a.m.
The pandemic has brought the racial wealth gap and needs of the most vulnerable into sharp focus. Learn about possible solutions to funding education, health care, human services, and social justice initiatives, while simultaneously avoiding junk-bond status on mounting state debt. Take a look at revenue alternatives to balance the state budget.
Housing is Everything: The Role of Housing as a Determinant of Economic Success
11:45–12:45 p.m.
Always a concern, housing instability takes on new urgency among populations hardest hit by the pandemic. Look at the historic role of government funding for housing and its impact on local communities; neighborhood divisions by race and income have been entrenched by historic government policies. Health, education, safety and opportunities for financial stability are largely dependent on where you live. Find out how to promote and support affordable housing in your community.
Session Resources: Saturday, February 27
Recognizing and Doing Something About Systemic Racism and Inequality
9:00–10:15 a.m.
This panel discussion will explore the effects of systemic racism and inequality in areas of healthcare, energy use and delivery, community investment and criminal justice. Hear from those who have direct experience with how inequity manifests itself in communities. What is the impact on general populations and what can we do about it? Panel moderator is Elizabeth “Joy” Guscott-Mueller.
Welcoming City, Sanctuary City
10:30–11:30 a.m.
What does it mean to be officially designated a Welcoming or Sanctuary City? Learn why this designation is important for refugees, immigrants and emerging citizens who are dealing with issues of immigration, integration, protection, well being, community engagement and a pandemic. This session will also take a specific look at the future for women immigrants.
Redistricting in 2021: Community Mapping
11:45–12:45 p.m.
What are “communities of interest” and how can they be used for redistricting? The way district maps are drawn can have a profound effect on community representation in local, state and federal legislative bodies. Learn about an online platform that enables individuals and organizations to construct, submit and share maps of their communities of interest so that they can mobilize for appropriate representation. Public input in map drawing is a way for communities to effectively advocate for themselves in the redistricting process.