Baltimore After the Uprising: Three Trends Building a Fairer, Safer, Stronger Economy

[eridani]

http://www.nationofchange.org/2015/11/12/baltimore-after-the-uprising-three-trends-building-a-fairer-safer-stronger-economy/


1. Structural Racism: Naming it, centering it, and engaging in public dialogue about its history and present

Structural racism, as the term implies, is not about individuals, but the structure of American society. It is how many societal institutions work as they were designed to work, and together these institutions create different outcomes based on race.

2. Safety and Security: Developing a fuller meaning, understanding what it takes for all communities to have it, and making it a reality

The Baltimore Uprising focused attention once again on state violence—the blunt and lethal force of police practices. Policing continues to raise important questions about whose safety and security is protected by the state. In addition, Baltimore communities and a range of activists are elevating the reality that safety and security also require understanding the many ways that Black lives and Black communities are threatened every day.

3. Equitable Economies: Building and growing good jobs and opportunities for meaningful economic self-determination

At the heart of physical and economic security is the ability to care for and protect one’s self and community. Community-based organizations, technical assistance providers, democratic economic institutions, and a range of residents are having conversations, building coalitions, and thinking together about a better Baltimore with physical and economic security for all.