Rural communities are integral to our nation’s economy, culture, history – and future. One in five Americans lives in a rural place. While many rural places are dynamic and thriving, others are struggling, with economies in stress and declining livelihoods and health outcomes. This is especially true in low-income communities and communities of color. We must do better – and we can.
Hosted by Aspen CSG in partnership with Welcoming America, this session will explore how we get there. Learn how communities are taking action to create belonging, connection and to build power, especially among those often on the margins with a moderated discussion of the question: What will it take for each person in the community to be welcomed, feel connected, and to be able to exercise and influence power in decision-making?
Event Recording
Panelists:
- Katherine Ferguson (Moderator), Associate Director of the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group;
- Molly Hilligoss (Moderator), Midwest Regional Manager for Welcoming America;
- Fatima Fine, Executive Director of Project FINE;
- Alejandra Hernandez, Executive Director of Unity Alliance of Southern Idaho;
- Cecilia Cornejo Sotelo, documentary filmmaker, artist, and teacher;
- Bassem Gayed, Multicultural Services Coordinator the Otis Library in Norwich, CT.
About Thrive Rural: Thrive Rural is a new effort of the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group in partnership with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation – focuses on creating shared vision and understanding about what it will take to create dynamic, sustainable rural communities where all people can realize their full potential and live healthy lives.
