10 Hopeful Things That Happened in 2013 to Get You Inspired for What’s to Come

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http://www.commondreams.org/view/2013/12/30-2

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1. We saw surprising new leadership on the climate issue

In northeast Nebraska, Native Americans and local ranchers formed a new alliance to resist the Keystone XL pipeline. Seven thousand activists gathered in Pittsburgh to press for action on a wide range of environmental justice issues. Students across North America persuaded nine colleges and universities to divest from fossil fuel companies. Hundreds of climate activists walked out of the COP19 climate talks in Poland to hold their own climate talks.

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2. Native peoples took the lead in the fossil fuel fight

In response to Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s attempt to ramp up fossil fuel extraction on Native lands, Idle No More blossomed across Canada this year. First Nations people held flash mob round dances, blockaded roads, and appealed to government at all levels to protect land and water.

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3. The middle and lower classes fought for economic justice

Income inequality is reaching levels not seen since the roaring ‘20s. People stuck in long-term unemployment are running out of options, and those who do find work often can’t cover basic living expenses. The issue is now getting attention from mainstream media, becoming one of the defining issues of our time, as President Obama said.

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4. A new economy is in the making

At the grassroots, National People’s Action and the New Economy Institute are leading up new conversations about what it takes to build an economy that works for all and can function in harmony with the environment. Thousands of people are taking part.