At The Fledge, we believe democracy is more than an event that happens at the ballot box every few years—it’s a practice, a mindset, and a commitment to collective action that takes place every day (fledge calendar). From decisions about how we care for one another to the ways we shape our communities, democracy thrives when people actively participate, advocate, and collaborate.
Democracy in Action: The Sparrow Nurses
Last week, democracy came alive at The Fledge as Sparrow nurses gathered to vote on whether to strike. Their courage and solidarity exemplify what it means to use your voice to advocate for change. These healthcare workers are fighting not only for themselves but for their patients and their communities. Better wages and working conditions for them mean better care for everyone—a vital reminder that the ripple effects of democratic action benefit us all.
Standing in solidarity with these nurses means standing for the principles of equity, dignity, and fair treatment for all workers, especially those who dedicate their lives to meeting our basic needs. When they thrive, our community thrives.
Democracy and the Economy
Democracy extends far beyond elections—it’s also about how we allocate our time, tools, talents, and treasures. At The Fledge, we encourage everyone to “vote” every day by mentoring a youth entrepreneur, supporting tenants’ rights through initiatives like Rent is Too Damn High, or simply sharing resources to uplift others.
Our economy becomes more democratic when individuals have access to opportunities and decision-making power. Programs like the Youth Entrepreneurial Program embody this principle by equipping young people with the skills and resources to create businesses that reflect their values and aspirations. When we invest in the next generation, we’re voting for a more innovative, inclusive, and prosperous future.
The Power of Collective Ownership
Democracy is also woven into the fabric of cooperative ownership. Initiatives like the Sunshine House and Urbandale Farm (The Fledge at Urbandale) showcase how shared decision-making and collective action can create lasting impact.
- The Sunshine House operates as a cooperative model, where members actively participate in ownership and governance, earning equity and creating a sense of shared responsibility.
- Urbandale Farm is building on this foundation as a community asset, providing opportunities for new and experienced farmers to innovate and thrive while addressing food justice and sustainability.
These examples highlight how democratic systems can empower individuals, redistribute wealth, and build stronger communities.
Democracy is a Daily Vote
At its core, democracy is about participation. It’s about showing up, making decisions together, and taking actions that align with our shared values. Every time you mentor someone, attend a community meeting, or advocate for fair wages, you are practicing democracy. Every small act builds toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
At The Fledge, we’re proud to be a space where democracy thrives in all its forms. Whether it’s standing with workers, empowering young leaders, or fostering shared ownership, we know that the strength of our community lies in our collective voice and action.
We invite you to join us in practicing democracy every day. Together, we can build a future where everyone has a seat at the table and a voice in shaping the world we want to live in.
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