Boundless Citizenship in a Globalized World
How can each of us make a positive difference in the world? Is it even possible?
Many of us ask ourselves, “what can I, as one person, do here to help solve these issues and improve the circumstances of people here, there, and everywhere?”
And when we attempt to answer it, it can be overwhelming to think about the work and resources needed to overcome extreme poverty and rising inequalities, on a local and global scale. So, we focus on what’s immediate.
But the truth is, we cannot afford to ‘go small’ in our thinking.
We live in an interconnected world, increasingly bound together through trade and economic ties, global migration, communication and virtual communities. We share the same music, movies, and memes with people on the other side of the globe, and the same aspirations for freedom, expression, movement, and opportunity. No matter how much distance there is between us, we’re not that far apart.
Now, more than ever, we must quiet the noise of divisive politics and misinformation that diminishes our compassion, motivation and collective superpowers.
Our individual choices have a collective impact that is not always clear. Whether it’s the consumer choices we make (fair trade? sustainable sources?), the industries we support (fossil fuels? renewable energies?), the media we share (reputable journalism? fake news?), or the representatives we vote for (collaborative or divisive politics?), these have a ripple effect that can contribute to disenfranchisement, conflict, economic instability and unemployment, and mass migration. They can also lead to greater access to drinkable water, financial tools that lift households out of poverty, and safe schools and hospitals, to ensure every person gets the education and healthcare they need to thrive.
At xChange 2019, we’ll question, imagine, and respectfully debate the roles, responsibilities and opportunities each of us have to create positive impact, as a group and by exercising our individual rights and responsibilities.
Now, more than ever, we must quiet the noise of divisive politics and misinformation that diminishes our compassion, motivation and collective superpowers.
Fewer people live in extreme poverty, or on less that $1.90 per day, today than at any time in history, and inequality between countries is decreasing, thanks to conscientious effort, pooled resources, and cooperation. We’re on the right track. We must build on this momentum if we hope to accelerate the pace of change. We face huge, but not insurmountable global challenges, such as climate change, world health challenges, economic and political instability. We can address these in our lifetime.
Our mission is bold, but the EWB community has the passion, understanding, and talent to deliver! Join us at xChange 2019, and let’s find our way, together.
