July 27 – July 28, 2024 in Boston, MA
Calling all solidarity economy and co-op organizers, activators, practitioners and allies across Massachusetts!
For a third year, the Massachusetts Solidarity Economy Network (MASEN) and Coalition for Worker Ownership and Power (COWOP) are co-organizing a two day gathering in July to celebrate, learn, strategize and build together. This year we’re going to be in Boston!
The theme this year is Land & Housing. It is increasingly clear that taking land and housing out of the speculative market and into community control is a critical part of building the solidarity economy and addressing the housing crisis. We’re very excited that the inspirational Dudley St Neighborhood Initiative (DSNI) and DNI, its community land trust, will be hosting us on Saturday and on Sunday there’s a tour of DSNI and the CLT. Sign up link for the tour Sunday, 9:30-10:30. Spaces limited. Meet at the Shirley Eustis House.
Saturday, July 27th, 10:00-4:00 – State of the Movement & Collective Strategy
Location: Dudley St. Neighborhood Initiative, 550 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA 02119
For those who are already members or interested in getting involved with MASEN and COWOP, please join us to connect, build relationships, review our movement moment together, set priorities and design strategy to build and strengthen the solidarity economy.
Sunday, July 28th, 10:00-4:00 – Solidarity Economy/Co-op Festival
Location: Shirley Eustic House, 33 Shirley Street, Roxbury, MA 02119
Directions & Parking
Everyone is welcome to enjoy the Festival! Please join us to connect, celebrate, discover and learn about the solidarity economy and co-op movements in Massachusetts. Organizations and vendors will share knowledge, do hands-on activities, sell their wares and provide a glimpse into the thriving solidarity economy in the Commonwealth. We’ll also have cultural events, a free swap table, workshops and a participatory Solidarity Economy and Co-op 101 Teach-in.
Values & Logistics
On Safety and Wellbeing: We believe strongly in the dignity and sanctity of all people, and the right of all beings to be treated with the utmost respect. From a position of grounding in justice and care, we strive to create the conditions for everyone to achieve bodily and psychological safety. Neither violence, sexual aggression, nor pernicious/harmful speech will be tolerated at our event. We will have a group of volunteers available to offer support in trying to respond to or interrupt situations that appear to be leading to harm. Please help us create a safe(r) environment supporting wellbeing for everyone by embodying a practice of consideration and care for others, and reach out for / offer support when needed.
Accessibility: In order to make this event as accessible to everyone as possible, we will provide free childcare and Spanish interpretation for both days. For other languages please see below.
- Spanish interpretation and Childcare: To request Spanish interpretation or childcare, please indicate that in the registration form before July 17 so that we can coordinate with providers. We may not be able to accommodate requests made after that date. Please note: We do not have the capacity to provide childcare for infants and children who are not potty trained.
- Interpretation for other languages/sign language: we will do our best to support interpretation for other languages including sign language. We’ll need to raise the resources so need to know what other languages we need interpreters for as soon as possible, but no later that the end of June.
Tabling/Workshops/Activities: Want to table or offer an activity or performance? Fill out this Activities form to register!
Zero Waste Event: we’d love to make this event as waste free as possible. Please consider bringing your own cup, plate and utensils. We will have a washing station set up so that you can clean your stuff.
Transportation:If you need help getting out there or can offer a ride, please utilize the Rideshare list.
Camping on Saturday night: Camping is available at the Shirley Eustis House (map) which is the venue for the Sunday Festival. There’s space for 15-18 tents. Please indicate your interest when you register and we’ll be in touch about details.