Attempting to Address Conditions of Poverty through an Inclusive Economic Approach in Alberta
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29173/cjnser.2021v12nS1a415Abstract
This article responds to the call to alter current economic and social systems in light of COVID-19 by documenting initial efforts by a community-university partnership to build an inclusive economy. First, the effects of neoliberalism and oil ex- traction are examined to highlight the inequality that existed in Alberta long before the pandemic began. The paper then outlines four key areas of change: employment and training; social procurement and community benefits agreements; living wages; and basic income. It concludes with some initial learnings that may have resonance for others attempting to stimulate economic practices that distribute wealth more equitably.
RÉSUMÉ
Cet article répond à un désir de modifier les systèmes économiques et sociaux actuels en conséquence du COVID-19. Il le fait en décrivant des efforts préliminaires de la part d’un partenariat communauté/université pour établir une économie qui soit plus inclusive. L’article examine d’abord les conséquences du néolibéralisme et de l’extraction du pétrole afin de souligner les inégalités qui existaient déjà en Alberta bien avant le début de la pandémie. L’article présente ensuite quatre domaines clés qu’on aurait besoin de modifier : l’emploi et la formation; les ententes sur l’approvisionnement social et sur les avantages communautaires; le salaire de subsistance; et le revenu de base. L’article conclut en faisant des ob- servations préliminaires qui pourrait inspirer d’autres individus tentant d’encourager des pratiques économiques orientées vers une distribution plus équitable de la richesse.
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