Breaking the Cycle of Economic Inequality: The Power of the Solidarity Economy

The fight for economic justice can often feel like a never-ending battle, much like the myth of Sisyphus rolling a boulder up a mountain only to have it roll back down again. While victories can be won and damage minimized, the constant battles can become tiresome, especially when dealing with issues such as state and federal budget problems. However, instead of solely fighting unjust systems, there is another option – building positive alternatives.

One approach to creating a fairer and more sustainable economy is through the concept of the “solidarity economy.” This movement prioritizes people and planet over endless profits and growth. Examples of solidarity economy practices can be found in indigenous survival and sustainability methods, cooperatives, community land trusts, credit unions, peer-to-peer lending, mutual aid, community-led economic development, bartering, community-supported agriculture, and fair trade products. Additionally, informal ways in which family, friends and neighbors come together to support each other are also part of the solidarity economy.

For example, in my community on a country road, neighbors come together to help each other in times of need. When a tree falls across the road