American Friends Service Committee Promotes the Solidarity Economy

Working towards economic justice often feels like a never-ending battle, similar to the story of Sisyphus condemned to roll a rock up a mountain only for it to roll back down. While there are moments of victory, defending past gains, or mitigating harm, the repetitive nature of fighting state and federal budget issues can become exhausting. However, there are alternatives to this constant struggle.

One such alternative is the concept of the solidarity economy, which focuses on building a just and sustainable economy that prioritizes people and the planet over profit and growth. This approach has been practiced throughout history in various forms, including Indigenous survival and sustainability methods, cooperatives, community land trusts, credit unions, peer lending, mutual aid, community-led economic development, barter systems, community-supported agriculture, and fair trade products.

In everyday life, people also come together informally to support each other in times of need. For example, in a close-knit community like a dead-end country road, neighbors band together to help with tasks like removing fallen trees, sharing resources such as firewood, checking on each other during bad weather, and sharing the bounty from gardens or hunting expeditions.

These examples illustrate how solidarity and mutual aid can create a sense of community, support, and resilience in the face of economic challenges. By building positive alternatives and fostering collective efforts, we can work towards a more just and sustainable economy for all.