Typically, we make purchases based on certain criteria. “Where is it cheapest?” or “What is most convenient?” and others. But what if we trained ourselves to ask first: “What is the most local?” “How can I support the local economy and also make real change in the world?” After making local our priority, then other questions can follow.
“It’s possible” is how I answer the question raised by the title. Let’s look at how.
Acts of caring, sharing, and justice alone will not change economic systems. They will take care of humanitarian needs neglected by the system in charge without changing the system. What, then, is necessary for such acts to leverage system change?
Too many brands of religion have forgotten those stories of their tradition that subvert patriarchal culture and heal the people, animals, and ecology that have been poisoned by it. Caught unconsciously in the patriarchal grasp, brands of patriarchal religion lend selected sacred texts to the cause. So today patriarchal systems and powers, determined to hold onto dominance, are insufficiently challenged by strong powers of the Spirit.
In January, JEM opened the envelope with the latest bank statement. The bank balance was the lowest it had been in three years. Despite our frugality, more had been distributed across the Circles than had come in through donations. Heading toward the March 13 Board meeting, John Michno, treasurer, drew up a proposal that would reduce redistributions to the Mexico ministries by a total of $1000.00. Jubilee ministries faced a sad reality.
The solution to countering patriarchy is often sought through gender equality. But to be equal in a patriarchal system only means women and men are more equal participants in that system. Despite the effort and laws, patriarchy’s rewards, opportunities, and demands still favor men.