1959 Highlander Way · New Market, TN 37820 · phone: (865) 933-3443 · fax: (865) 933-3424
e-mail: hrec@highlandercenter.org

We live and work in Appalachia, a region of the United States with unique and historic connections to the global economy. Our challenge as community-based organizers is to develop innovative strategies that build global justice rooted in local action. As a reader of this guide, you are among the many groups and individuals searching for ways to contribute to healthy and sustainable alternatives to corporate-driven globalization. The purpose of this document is to share knowledge and strategies to help you work toward positive changes that utilize the strength of your diverse communities and cultures. Appalachia is well known for valuing humanity, community and nature, as well as for its long history of organized nonviolent resistance. With this spirit we can implement local strategies that contribute to a healthy and sustainable world.

There are many ways to view the world. Because of the corporate domination of media and political messages in the U.S., we are encouraged to think that the economics of “free trade” will improve our lives and the lives of our neighbors and friends around the world. As we voice concerns about our interests not being protected, we are told to wait patiently for corporate-driven globalization to yield democracy and prosperity for all. We are learning, however, that such economic policies can be harmful, resulting in losses of work, wages, natural resources, community, culture, health, safety, and especially democracy. We want to understand what these policies are and where they are headed as we create alternatives that not only support our local communities, but also are mindful and supportive of communities around the globe.

People all over the world are creating local solutions to global problems. Community groups are maintaining farmers’ markets, markets which enable farmers to sell their products directly to local consumers instead of working for large-scale agribusinesses which often promote farming practices that are harmful to workers, the economy and our food supply. Citizen’s groups are winning living wage campaigns, raising wages to levels that keep workers and their families out of poverty. Organizations are pressuring to improve local education systems that help young people as well as displaced workers make needed transitions in the global economy.

People across the U.S. and around the world have launched campaigns to improve tax structures and government services, and to fight international trade policies that would negatively impact working communities. While some campaigns focus on pressuring a particular corporation to change its practices around the globe, others work to develop alternative policies or ways of living that contribute to a brighter future.

Many people feel that corporate-driven globalization is an inevitable force, a force too large for a single person or even a whole community to influence. This project is an effort to share ways that, day to day, people all over the world are working together to build positive global solutions from their own backyards.

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