Take on the crises head on

In the world of social justice and pluralistic economies, few voices carry the clarity and impact of Kali Akuno. As a co-founder of Cooperation Jackson in Mississippi, Akuno has dedicated his life to building communities rooted in solidarity economy, self-management, and economic democracy. In July 2024, Kali Akuno visited Greece at the invitation of the SSE Association of Attika “Syntonismos”, to take part in a series of events focused on the social solidarity economy (SSE). This interview stems from a shared desire to deepen the understanding of SSE’s roots and concepts across diverse continents and communities.

Questions asked in the interview :

What are the main characteristics of the “solidarity economy” definition for Jackson or/and for USSEN and how do you distinguish it from other coops or social enterprises existing in the US?

Tell us about the USSEN Network, the US branch of Ripess Intercontinental.

What do you think of institutional recognitions such as the UN resolution on social and solidarity economy approved on 18 April 2023, and policy making work that many advocacy organisations and grassroots are focusing on?

What message would you send to all grassroot initiatives that work for another democratic non market economy in an era that far right gains ground and labor market is totally deregulated?

About the Speaker

Kali Akuno is Co-Founder and Co-Director of Cooperation Jackson, a network of worker cooperatives and community-led programs that sustain and grow a democratic, just and sustainable economy in Jackson, MS. Among these programs is the Fannie Lou Hamer Community Land Trust, which allows community members to collectively steward the land and creates opportunities for affordable property ownership.

About the SSE Association of Attika “Syntonismos”

The Association of the Social Solidarity Economy of Attica - Coordination - is active in the Region of Attica. Its purpose is the collective representation of the actors and the dissemination of economic democracy, sustainability and self-management.

For more information, visit their website at syn-kalo.org/

A heartfelt thanks to Kali for his inspiring words, passion, and the reminder that a vast ocean of shared visions and struggles connects us all.

The video : 20min20