Public space is the cornerstone of democracy, and its health is the key to enlivened political discourse. It is our belief that all issues are encircled by the rights set forth in the First Amendment, and that unless the freedoms it guarantees are defended we will not be able to achieve other goals. Our parks, sidewalks, streets and the networks of the internet are threatened today by any individual or groups of individuals that misconstrues political expression in those places as a hindrance to their private interests. Those encroaching may be agents of nearby establishments or government bodies who preemptively curtail such discourse. An overly restrictive permitting process may threaten the space temporarily, or by a full-scale privatization scheme that turns a public space into a private one. As well it is important to note the regularity with which we, as citizens, censor ourselves and cede the rights of the first amendment to a more passive relationship with those controlling bodies.
Initiatives
Defending Free Speech and Public Space
Supporting Independent Businesses
Our ability to consume wisely and participate in civic life is severely impacted by monocultural, non-local economies. We call for the preservation and retention of independent businesses and work with other groups and agencies to regulate and resist chain stores and big boxes while we defend, encourage and incentivize local independent businesses.
Sustainable Consumption
Climate change is the impetus for the most basic aspect of our work: that shopping can no longer be a way of life. The physical systems of the earth cannot support a consumer based, distribution economy for all its inhabitants; we as individuals cannot wait for big government solutions or technological advances. We must practice sustainable consumption in our everyday lives and dedicate ourselves to spreading the skills and resources to others for as long as it takes.
