The Necessity of Solidarity Economies
What is a Solidarity Economy?
The Nonprofit Quarterly defines solidarity economy as: "Solidarity economy (SE) is a post-capitalist framework that emerged in Latin America and Europe in the 1990s. It rejects state-dominated authoritarian forms of socialism, instead affirming a core commitment to participatory democracy. Furthermore, it is explicitly feminist, anti-racist, and ecological, and advocates for economic transformation that transcends (all forms) of oppression, not just class." [Source]
Solidarity economic practices and perspectives center collective economic power and interdependence, while valuing economic redistribution that prioritizes those most impacted by and the violent systems of white supremacy, settler colonialism, ableism, patriarchy and colonialism. What's transformative about solidarity economies is that they meet urgent needs, address real world concerns in ways that capitalism violently and deliberately ignores. SEs focus on making human needs like food, education, and housing accessible to people regardless of their economic background and place value on prioritizing those most vulnerable and harmed by harsh economic systems that value profit of humanity. [Source]
What does it show us?
This is something we think about often. There are so many frameworks that we aspire to follow. From a Just Transition to a Regenerative Economy to a Solidarity Economy, they all offer ways of being and practices that align with our mission and values. One of our business values is collaboration, which in practice, is rooted in reciprocity. A practice pivotal to bartering.
As a system, bartering -- the act of exchanging goods of equal or comparable value -- predates the creation of money or currency. In Indigenous communities throughout the world, bartering practices were complex systems of trade and exchange rooted in kinship and reciprocity. The trading of textiles, foods and other goods were not merely an economic transaction but a cultural exchange.
We love exploring ways in which an exchange not only meets a need but forms a social bond. It’s why we offer solidarity rates, engage in pro bono work, volunteer, and tailor our services to make them as accessible as possible.
What does this mean for everyday people? For business owners, entrepreneurs and nonprofits?
One thing the current economic and political moment is teaching us over and over again is that we got us. Those of us committed to reviving, holistic and communal-centered systems will do so at the grassroots level.. Cultivating equitable systems like a solidarity economy can include many things:
sliding scale prices for goods
pay what you can for events
tiered pricing systems that take into consideration the economic capacity of those involved
worker cooperatives
cooperative housing
collective management of communal resources
mutual aid
Are there ways you are already engaging in solidarity economy-based values? Are there new ways you can see incorporating a solidarity economy into how you engage with your clients, business partners and community?
As always, we are a resource to you. If you want to discuss or explore how to incorporate solidarity economy practices into your business, reach out to us!
