Simply put: we’re in some deep doodoo, ya’ll. Our problems start with the narrowness of ideas we receive – from our news, schools, ‘leaders’ and corporate culture-shapers. Ironically, in this land that claims freedom of speech and press as sacred, we are constrained in our “radical imagination,” leading us to accept as normal – despite today’s great advancements and unprecedented wealth – both mediocre political leadership and persistent poverty and suffering.
Yet, there’s a ton of great information in the world around us – such as wonderful experiments in people-driven governance and distributive economics – that could expand our vision and inspire our sense of possibility. I’ve always felt compelled to share, and to build bridges between my many interests and diverse circles. So, I hope you’ll give this a bit of attention – just scrolling through to see the range of topics and great resources, reading a few thoughts and listening/watching some of the media clips. And please leave comments so that you and I and others (hopefully no MAGA yahoos) can engage in some fruitful dialogue around advancing some of the pressing issues we face — for us and, as indigenous peoples often say, for the “7 generations to come.”
“MObetter,” the blog’s title, is simply my initials plus the wish I hold for my daughter and the future. About me, if you want to know: my main roots are in community development innovations (with nonprofits, philanthropy, and government) aimed at building economic security for exploited communities. This has included new models of affordable housing like land trusts, and “CDFIs” (community development financial institutions such as community loan funds and credit unions). In the last few years I have been exploring “impact investing” and heightened community ownership and control over capital, coming to work recently for “Transform Finance.” I’ve served on various social justice boards (like Grassroots Leadership and Global Exchange) and have been blessed to travel extensively, aided in part by my years at the Ford Foundation and through a W.K. Kellogg Fellowship that enabled me to explore my “side interest” in art and social change. I reside in my native Brooklyn with my beloved teen daughter to whom I hope to leave a better world! – In Peace and Struggle, Mitty Owens
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