I was asked to present at two different events recently which were organized to discuss major policy reform. Ironically the individuals responsible for ‘encouraging’ the discussion were not in attendance. In answer to ‘why?’ the response was, “They would be too … Read More
Author Archives: Al Etmanski
Never Again
“Making sure it never happens again” is such a potent source of social innovation. This combination of necessity and love is a force of nature. Particularly when it emerges from the hands and hearts of Moms. I see it all … Read More
Angers I Have Known
There are plenty of good reasons to be angry at the social and environmental state of the world. Here are six types of anger I’m acquainted with. Wounded bird – Anger is camouflaged as weakness. Expects others to play along. … Read More
Never Underestimate the Power of Air Miles in the Hands of an Accidental Activist
Particularly if that person is Donald MacPherson. In the late 1990’s a neighbourhood in Vancouver was known as the Killing Fields because of its high overdose death rate (nearly 200 in 1998 alone.) Starting today (April 19th, 2016) the UN … Read More
Recipe for ‘Unlaunches’ and other Unlikely Gatherings
In answer to the question, “What’s an unlaunch?” here’s a favourite recipe. Find a local sponsor willing to become an alchemist – sharing, blending, experimenting… Choose a room that will enlarge people’s spirits Decorate the room with flowers, branches, boughs, … Read More
Imagine a Country Where No One Is Poor
Imagine a country where kids don’t have to go to school hungry. Imagine there are no homeless people. Imagine working for a living and not having to rely on food banks. More than one hundred Canadian Mayors and Councilors do. … Read More
Bricks and Mortar
It’s been almost a year since I released my third book, Impact. It has sold well and I’m having lots of fun travelling around and meeting social innovators. There have been many surprises. One was a recent call from google … Read More
The Journey to Transformation Starts with a Resurrection of the Ordinary
There is a great deal of caring, conserving, creating, innovating, entrepreneuring, protecting, advocating for all life on earth (human, plant and animal) that is done by so-called ordinary people. A quick scan of my friends and neighbours reveals C. who … Read More
Story Money Impact
So much going on. Each of the following deserves more attention. Ever wonder about the health of documentary filmmaking? Its financing? Its commitment to social justice? Its ‘competitors amidst Youtube, Vimeo and other emerging social platforms? Tracey Friesen has done … Read More
Fear and Loathing and Social Change
Perpetuating fear, shame or loathing can backfire on you. They beget more of the same. They give people a chance to avoid changing. Why? Because change means risk and risk evokes fear. This pretty much guarantees your message and hard work … Read More