We must all play an active role to ensure a road to recovery that does not return us to the pre-pandemic status quo. The murder of George Floyd has mobilized communities across the country and world to finally uproot the racism and injustice that has for far too long ruled our institutions and culture. Now is the time to reimagine a new, more equitable, prosperous, and just society— and we see it happening.
Below we’re passing on reasons for celebration— national judicial victories, local Juneteenth celebrations and opportunities for learning, as well as recent grantee news highlighting the incredible work being done in our communities. We are particularly excited to invite you to a special FUND conversation centering efforts to address inequities in our economy both locally and throughout the state.
“A Call to Justice: A Discussion of Community-Based Initiatives to End Racism and Build a Just, Prosperous, Sustainable Economy”
Tuesday, July 7th
3:00 – 4:15 PM
INFO+RSVP
Join our discussion with four extraordinary leaders working to forge strategies at the state and local levels to rebound the economy while advancing economic, environmental, and racial equity. Our panelists will highlight the role of the Schools & Communities First statewide tax reform initiative, the FUND-led Regional Equity Study, and other efforts to leverage this moment to build a more just and inclusive economy.
Manuel Pastor is a Distinguished Professor at USC and Director of the USC Program for Environmental and Regional Equity, where his research has focused on issues facing low-income urban communities and social movements. His most recent book is State of Resistance: What California’s Dizzying Descent and Remarkable Resurgence Means for America’s Future.
Maricela Morales is the Executive Director of the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE). A former Mayor of the City of Port Hueneme, she is an appointed alternate member of the California Coastal Commission.
David N. Pellow is a Distinguished Professor of Environmental Studies and Chair of the UCSB Environmental Studies Program and Director of the Global Environmental Justice Project.
Alice O’Connor, our moderator and a FUND Board Member, is a Professor of History & Public Policy at UCSB where she also directs the UCSB Blum Center for Global Alleviation and Sustainable Development. She teaches and writes about wealth and poverty, social and urban policy, the politics of knowledge, and the history of organized philanthropy in the United States.
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