Stewardship + Equity: Rooting a New Rural Legacy

View this Publication

Rural and Native communities have been stewarding the land for generations. Many are developing new ways of growing nature and the economy together, even as extractive industries and chronic underinvestment have, historically, made stewardship a challenge.

Today, we have a unique opportunity to increase equity and rural innovation at the intersection of health, economic development, and the environment, given the recent influx of climate-related investments.

The brief features recommended actions to address structural disadvantages and advance stewardship together with place, race, and class equity — drawn from our work with a range of rural practitioners.

Additionally, opportunities are highlighted to advance stewardship and equity within climate mitigation, recreation & tourism, and local & regional food systems.

Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group
Latest From Aspen CSG
Blog
Steps Towards Equity: Voices from the USDA Equity Commission

Aspen CSG's analysis of the USDA Equity Commission's final report, plus quotes and insights from rural development leaders appointed to the commission.

Event
Community Foundation Approaches to Housing Impact Investing

Apr. 29th, 2024, 2PM

Come share and learn how community foundations are finding innovative ways to use investment portfolios to partner with local developers & increase housing stock.

Case Study
Communities Need Safe Drinking Water: A Rural Environmental Justice Case Study

This short case study has insights on what will it take for rural communities to drive their own clean water solutions and breaks down the structural challenges that keep rural communities from accessing clean water solutions.

Event
Agricultural fields at sunrise
Funders Shift Thinking to Meet Community Needs

Apr. 11th, 2024, 2PM

Fair treatment and meaningful involvement require agencies and funders to shift gears and meet communities where they are. What does it take to make this shift so that communities are treated fairly and meaningfully involved in the funding process?

Blog
Do New FEMA Rule Changes Align with Equity Principles?

FEMA announced big changes to federal disaster assistance programs. Do these changes create more equitable outcomes for communities after natural disasters?

Blog
Broadband technician working
Broadband Resources

A collection of broadband resources for funding, advocacy, and community program opportunities for rural community leaders.