Power in Regional Connectivity
There is a common misconception that coastal liberal cities are the center of Green New Deal (GND) activity. In reality, some of the most exciting efforts and policies being enacted around the country take a holistic, regional approach. Green New Deals are an incredible opportunity to build regional resilience and connectivity. Whether it be around agriculture, transportation, the economy, infrastructure, or other policy priorities, engaging surrounding towns and states when forming plans is ideal for holistic, healthy, green communities. The following resources will highlight some of the exciting work that is happening outside of cities and discuss how to broaden your movement to encompass regional concerns for prosperity beyond the city.
Climate injustices do not respect municipal borders. Urban-rural partnerships are crucial for creating green regions and achieving justice in all communities, rather than just leading to urban pockets of innovation that can occur when the focus is solely on the city. These partnerships can include cooperation on a number of policy areas including agriculture, transportation, economic opportunity, industrial policy, energy, and infrastructure to create economic, health, and environmental benefits across geographic regions.
Center for Rural Strategies
The Center for Rural Strategies seeks to improve economic and social conditions for communities in the countryside and around the world through the creative and innovative use of media and communications. They strive to create better opportunities for small towns and rural communities by building coalitions, developing partnerships, leading public information campaigns, and advancing strategies that strengthen connections between rural and urban places.
Land Reform and the Green New Deal
This article discusses land reform in terms of a GND Few Green and argues for New Deal proposals to include explicit attention to rural people and places to challenge the ascendance of right-wing populism.
