The Project on Belonging

In a world where the decades-old, rules-based political order appears to be rocky, where liberal democracies around the globe are under attack from domestic and economic strife, now comes THE ASPEN INSTITUTE PROJECT ON BELONGING to stand in the abyss of our divisions by proffering a different national narrative.

This new narrative speaks to the tremendous progress that our nation-state has achieved since its founding in 1776 and the fact that the vast majority of Americans are working towards the same goal of creating a land where we all BELONG and enjoy equitable opportunities to THRIVE.

What does the Project on Belonging do? 

Topical ConveningsBy partnering with incredible organizations such as High Alpha Innovation and 1842 Studio, Easterseals, and SHRM, we are able to bring together incredible innovators working in a diverse range of sectors – from education to tech to human resources and beyond – that share best practices in the act of BELONGING. Global Convenings We are fortunate to have a thought and action partner in The Festival of the Diaspora. The Festival is a community of leaders that “are driven by the unwavering belief that it is our collective responsibility to foster inclusive societies and organizational cultures that empower every individual to flourish.” So far, we have traveled to San Juan, Puerto Rico, Cartagena, Colombia, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to “ignite a ripple effect of positive impact.” In February 2025, we will be in Medellín, Colombia for the fourth Festival of the Diaspora and to continue to celebrate humanity everywhere! Resources for Professional Learning Communities Through continuous growth and development, we have creating a library of content for you. Our methodology that underpins this work is centered on Generative Change (or Internal Revival) and includes four phases: 

1. Metacognitive awareness 
2. Ideological exploration 
3. Internalization 
4. Generativity 

A less academic way to express this method is an iterative learning circle that flows as follows: Spark (inspiration and curiosity), Reflect (notice and practice), Tinker, (preparation and interaction), Grow (adjustments and goals). 

Our Founder, Cordell Carter, breaks it down below:

https://youtu.be/YaUdFJlQgBw?si=FnZGcsxyiLOJExH_

 

What’s Next 

The Past, Present, and Future of the ADA – July 26, 2024 

Annual Belonging In America Summit  – Fall 2025 

This annual gathering will bring together a group of geographic, intellectual, and ethnic diversity of leaders to speak to various vectors of belonging, from every corner of America. The focus will be on solutions, action plans, playbooks, things people can use right away. 

Co-Creating a New Narrative on the American South in Birmingham, Alabama – October 2024 

Stay tuned for more!

 

For further information, please contact: [email protected]

 

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