Some journalists are stubbornly pursuing the truth despite growing media monopolies, government secrecy, ideology, and public relations spin doctors—but it’s getting tougher
The Hopi people of the Black Mesa region know how to farm and thrive in the desert Southwest. But a giant coal company is draining the aquifer that feeds their sacred springs and makes their livelihood possible.
Mono Lake activists fought a 16-year David-versus-Goliath battle against the city's Department of Water and Power (DWP) to stop water diversions to Los Angeles. Yet the rural community and the city have emerged from the fray as watershed partners.
In the early days of the campaign, I often
wondered whether the oppressive conditions of Selma were just a
figment of my own analysis because the people here seemed so
uninspired to oust Smitherman. I realized later that people
only needed the spirit of hope combined with inspired “people
power” and the timing of “Greater power” to overcome
their worst fears and make lasting changes a
reality.
Where there's a way, by Michael M’Gonigle.
Global Trade Agreements are just the latest way local
communities are losing control over the surrounding forests and
the watersheds. If there was a way to reclaim the commons,
might there also be a political will?
Great commons of the World, by Kari McGinnis.
Commons are places where people gather and community blossoms.
Examines the qualities that make a good commons and describes
some of the best in the world.
Community gardens, free software, self-help groups,
and other examples of how the gift economy fosters community
and social cohesion as well as economic
innovation.
“A city should be a place of exuberance and exaltation of the human spirit, a place for celebration and public 'happenings', for rich and easy encounter, for relaxation and enjoyment.”
E.R.Wickham