Those following the race for the Democratic presidential nomination closely enough to understand the main tenets of each candidate's economic agenda can surely appreciate the importance of green-collar workforce development as a vital economic development and community development opportunity. The buzz around sustainability seems to have reached a crescendo these days, and a legion of local eco-activists has much cause to feel much vindication as a result. The word is really getting out! To borrow from Gestalt philosophy, raising awareness is the critical first step necessary to move any system to the point of meaningful action. It would really behoove our communities to prepare intelligently for this inevitable time with sound research and due diligence. This is the time to look to the most charismatic, capable, and cogent leaders and follow their example.
In the realm of green workforce development [1] and its potential for integrative impact in terms of economy, environment, and social justice Van Jones shines as just such a leader.
My first intimate exposure to Van and his work came two years ago, as part of the planning team for the first Cleveland Bioneers conference last fall. He was perhaps one of the most anticipated speakers of the conference, and for good reason. His ground breaking work with projects in Oakland and the South Bronx in facilitating green collar job training opportunities for the underprivileged has built the foundation for widespread impact. His stories justify and punctuate the importance of purpose, passion, and perserverance in making positive social change. These communities have been able to shine as first movers due to the successful creative and collective collaborations that coalesced under his leadership.
I've followed the recent progress with these integrated environmental and social justice efforts with much interest on the Green for All [2] site. In a week's time a historic conference will convene in Memphis on the 40th anniversary of the assasination of Martin Luther King, Jr to further propel the green-collar movement and opportunities for the underprivileged. It should be an incredibly inspirational experience.
Jones and his organization, Green for All.org , have compiled a particularly illuminating document detailing best practices from their experiences and these fundamentals, I feel, would be invaluable to frame the work we envision in communities like East Cleveland. Lead abatement is a high priority for these bioneers and well understood as a crippling reality in many underprivileged communities. The suggestions regarding key players to include in the collaborative conversations and coalitions needed for success apply perfectly well for our region and the opportunities to empower all interested NEO residents to fill the many anticipated openings. Please take a look at this document [3] and contribute to the discussion on applying these uplifting development strategies here regionally.
I sincerely hope our local leaders do the same.
Attachment | Size |
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gcjobsamericascities.pdf [4] | 1.46 MB |
Links:
[1] http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2008/1/24/145628/140
[2] http://www.greenforall.org/
[3] http://li326-157.members.linode.com/system/files?file=gcjobsamericascities.pdf
[4] http://li326-157.members.linode.com/system/files/gcjobsamericascities.pdf