Everyone is an Activist

Dear Friends,

In this fragile economy discussion of a new, re-envisioned, economics is a common topic, bridging political affiliations. People are eager to join in practical action that addresses a system in crisis, driving an activism in which every citizen is a participant.

For twenty-nine years, the E. F. Schumacher Society, joined by a circle of partners and allies, has imagined, implemented, and shared information about citizen-initiated projects for shaping sustainable local economies.

Headed by Alisa Gravitz, Green America (http://www.greenamericatoday.org)- formerly Coop America – has long been a dynamic leader in this constellation, promoting an economics where people and planet matter. Its work involves a deep commitment to whole-story economics, asking not only how and where a product is made but also by whom and under what conditions. From advancing Fair Trade supply chains and reducing sweatshop labor worldwide to promoting socially and ecologically responsible business and investment at home, Green America empowers citizens to make informed and responsible choices when they enter into economic exchange.

Heeding E. F. Schumacher's tenet that education must clarify our central convictions, Green America boldly advocates for a world where all people have enough, where all communities are healthy and safe, and where the bounty of the Earth is preserved for the generations to come. Green America provides resources and tools for individuals and institutions as they make economic decisions.

For more than twenty-five years Alisa Gravitz has led Green America in developing marketplace solutions to social and environmental problems, with emphasis on climate change, community investment, corporate responsibility, green business, and fair trade. Ms. Gravitz is also a nationally recognized leader in the social investment industry. She co-authored Green Amerca's “Guide to Social Investing” and is a recipient of the prestigious Socially Responsible Investing Service Award.

Ms. Gravitz promotes a green economy as the solution to both the environmental needs of our planet and the current financial crisis, inspiring myriad grassroots actions to “reduce consumption and waste of the world’s resources and totally reshape the global economy in the direction of sustainability.” (alternet.org) Her innovative work to create a more socially just and environmentally sustainable society generates as much concrete action as it does enthusiasm and hope for the future.

Please join us on Saturday, October 17th in welcoming Alisa Gravitz at the 29th Annual E. F. Schumacher Lectures. She will be joined by speakers Bill McKibben and Benjamin Barber. The location is the First Congregational Church of Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Tickets are 25 BerkShares/Dollars (15 for members of the E. F. Schumacher Society, seniors, and students). We recommend registering in advance.

For more information on the event or to pre-register please visit: http://www.smallisbeautiful.org

Email: efssociety@smallisbeautiful.org

Or call (413) 528-1737.

Best Wishes,
Susan Witt, Sarah Hearn, Stefan Apse, Kate Poole, and Jasmine Stine

Staff of the E. F. Schumacher Society
140 Jug End Road
Great Barrington, MA 01230
www.smallisbeautiful.org