November 2021
Dear Class Action supporters, friends and collaborators,
As we approach the end of 2021, we are looking back at the progress we have made in the last year. Since January, we have been engaged in what some have called a “listening tour” designed to gather feedback on our work and input about the future of the organization. At our board/staff retreat in July, we began to discuss and make decisions about the major themes raised in this process:
Race/class intersections: Class Action’s relevance is tied to work at the intersection of class and race. We must look to more fully understand that intersection and integrate that understanding and practice into everything that we do.
Work across difference: Class Action has a lot to contribute to positive and impactful “work across difference.” Seventeen years ago, Class Action’s foundational activities were designed to promote relationship, understanding and solidarity across class. We hope to build on that history in ways that are sorely needed in these particularly divisive times.
Expanding and deepening our work with First Gen students: The students who attend our annual First Gen Summit are 75% students of color. The work to promote FG student equity and leadership is at the heart of Class Action’s mission.
Collaboration: For over 17 years, Class Action has contributed to efforts to increase equity and end oppression in all of its forms. More than ever now, we must do that work in partnership with others. The power of our work will be amplified through joint endeavors to achieve shared and related goals.
In the coming month, we will finalize plans for our work in these areas for the coming year. Look for our annual Winter Appeal in mid-December for more particulars on how we will do that work – and how you can support us in those efforts!
With gratitude and best wishes,
