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Natural Awakenings Lehigh Valley

From Backyard Gardens to General Assemblies

 

A few months ago, Transitions Lehigh Valley (TLV) was officially recognized by Transition US as a local hub organized to inspire and support town and neighborhood initiatives. As an answer to the crises of peak oil and economic and ecological instabilities, these initiatives inspire and encourage self-empowerment in the personal and community changes necessary for weaning from fossil fuels. 

At about the same time, on September 17, the occupation of Wall Street began in New York City’s Zuccotti Park by people who call themselves “the 99 percent.” They set up camp protesting social and economic inequality, corporate corruption and influence over the government. They meet in general assemblies and create working groups focusing on particular issues of concern. The Wall Street occupation has inspired more than a thousand occupations in other locations including Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton.

Those involved with Transitions Lehigh Valley (TLV) have come to recognize the similarities of the two movements. “We work from our homes and neighborhoods finding ways to create resilience on a local scale thereby making us less dependent on centers of power and money,” says core group member Suzie Hall. “We also gather in the town square united by our dissatisfaction with the way things are and we participate in a process in which everyone has a voice and everyone is heard.” 

Transitions, Lehigh Valley is offering a series at the Unitarian Church in Bethlehem at 7 p.m. on the second Friday of each month, where they will screen films and continue creating connection in the community.

For more information call 484-851-3910or visit 

Transitions.SustainLV.org.