An Inclusive Economic Development Initiative.
This initiative began in February 2020 with the support of CA Forward and the James Irvine Foundation. Over the past months, we’ve been digging into what inclusive economic development really means for our region, and co-creating a new reality with those communities who are most affected. This work is forcing people to think differently about our structures and systems that enable and perpetuate racial inequity. And it also forces people to think about their own role through that lens.
It was a big task, but the process thus far has been incredibly rewarding. We slowed the process down to ensure authentic community engagement which created trust and enabled progress. And it’s leading to critical race equity conversations that address existing constraints that will, in turn, inform our investment priorities.
Now, of course, MBEP and many, many others are already doing some fantastic work! This initiative helped amplify and connect the dots — to enable us to better synchronize and leverage all of our efforts.
Regions Rise Together Salinas is an inclusive economic development initiative that seeks to:
We respectfully acknowledge that the land on which Marina, California, is located is the traditional and unceded territory of the Ohlone/Costanoan-Esselen Nation. We honor and thank the past, present, and future generations of the Ohlone/Costanoan-Esselen people for their stewardship of this land. We express our deep appreciation for their enduring connection to this place and commit to respecting and valuing their cultural heritage. As we enjoy the natural beauty and resources of this region, we strive to be mindful stewards of the land and to support the ongoing efforts of Indigenous communities.
