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Voices for Economic Justice

Just Economics aims to have a membership that reflects the diversity of our community, with an intentional focus on leadership from low-wage workers and others most affected by the issues we work on. Voices for Economic Justice is an 8-week workshop series that incorporates popular economics education and community organizing skill-building, with the aim to build leadership among low-wage workers and low-income persons.

If you are interested in volunteering with Voices, participating in Voices or making a donation, please contact Carmen:

828-505-7466
or
CarmenYbarra@justeconomicswnc.org

The primary objectives of
Voices for Economic Justice are:

1. Education:

Voices participants deepen their understanding of current economic conditions and develop community organizing skills through popular education workshops led by experienced facilitators.

2. Community:

Voices builds community support by bringing low-wage workers from diverse backgrounds together around a shared experience. The Voices program also strengthens the relationship between low-wage workers and Just Economics through membership and creating avenues for future long-term involvement.

3. Action:

Voices participants take the lead in the movement for social and economic justice by engaging in Just Economics work and mobilizing their voices in community education and organizing activities.

Community Education

Just Economics is also dedicated to educating students, people of faith, policy-makers, business owners, and the general community about issues facing the working poor in our region, and proactive solutions to building a just and sustainable economy.

group of volunteers holding economic justice sign

Our staff and volunteers lead workshops for churches and community groups on income inequality, economic trends in our region, and grassroots organizing.


Poverty Simulation

Just Economics’ Working Poor Simulation is an experiential learning tool that exposes participants to the real life struggles of the working poor in our community.  Participants are assigned identities based on real low-income people and must complete the everyday activities of their families, like going to work, paying bills, applying for public benefits, etc.  The simulation involves moving between stations, which represent the institutions and businesses individuals typically interact with each month.  The simulation includes 3 month-long periods, and is followed by a reflection.

The Working Poor Simulation is a great educational experience for students, people of faith, and other community groups.  If you are interested in Just Economics leading a simulation for your group, contact 828-301-7291 or vicki@justeconomicswnc.org.

Western North Carolina is dealing with the unprecedented devastation from the impacts of Hurricane Helene. Our staff are all safe and we are currently focused on addressing the most immediate needs in our community. All Just Economics meetings and events are canceled until further notice. Follow us on social media for updates.

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