Among the items Degrowth team members discussed at their last meeting:
Mutual Aid: There are many people working on mutual aid in our communities; we can work alongside them, and see where we can help fill the gaps. Mutual aid is more than charity; it’s a two way communication of ideas, support (material, emotional, etc) that requires relationship building; helping to build the actual community so there are resources for all, rather than a charity one-for-one model.
Big old degrowth event: The team is planning a big Degrowth Summit, tentatively in the fall of 2025, which will give teams an opportunity to reach out. Ideas for the summit include mapping the work being done in our community, inviting in other practitioners and organizations, securing a keynote speaker. The ground for this could be prepared by holding a number of mini-events and teach-ins this summer.
Communications and education: The communications subgroup is working on solidifying our message and preparing an “elevator speech” about degrowth.
Policy: Our policy team will explore various Sierra Club (and other groups’) initiatives, with an eye toward what is the most “de-growthy”. This can form the basis of our recommendations for lobbying and support of legislation and public policy. One thing that differentiates the team is looking at policy through the lens of limiting the power of big corporations.