October 2021

360 Degrees of Justice 

Allison Jones, Vice President of Brand and Storytelling

It's no secret that our economic system is extractive and inequitable. However, the principles and values that uphold this system aren't limited to the technical machinations of our economy. They find their way into how we work together, how we set priorities, even the stories we tell. Building an equitable and inclusive economy requires a shift in all aspects of our work.

In this issue of the newsletter, you'll see how we weave justice into our approach to storytelling, into our decision to adopt a four-day work week, and into how we think about funding at the intersection of art and community wealth building.

We hope you'll share how you, too, are bringing justice into all you do.

—Allison

We hope you’ll take this time to reflect with us and share what we’re doing to create a more inclusive economy. Like the stories you read? Share them with your network on social and be sure to tag @commonfutureco.
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More from Common Future

The U.S. has long operated without being an inclusive economy. It’s a fact of American life that’s most apparent in data on racial wealth gaps. In 2019, the median net worth of a white family in the U.S. was about $188,200 compared to $24,100 for Black families, according to the Survey of Consumer Finances. Two broad factors help to explain the roots of the American racial wealth: discriminatory laws and compound interest. 

Closing racial gaps among business owners could have massive effects on the economy. A 2020 Brookings Institution report estimated what would happen if Black businesses reached parity with non-Black businesses, finding that it would create 806,218 more Black-owned businesses, increase revenue among Black businesses by $676,356,621,618, and create about 1.6 million jobs. More broadly, narrowing the racial wealth gap could strengthen the middle class and significantly boost the GDP.

A network of entrepreneurs, advocates, and community leaders, including Common Future, MORTAR, and PolicyLink, are part of that effort to close this gap. Click here to watch this new documentary by Skoll and Freethink* and learn how we're taking on this important challenge.
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