A New Green Deal for Jobs

[irishbobcat]

A New Green Deal for Jobs

July 24, 2008

Van Jones, founder of the green jobs and environmental justice group Green For All, delivered the final keynote address at Networks Nations last week, stopping in Austin, Texas to talk about green jobs and the political prospects for addressing both the energy and climate woes of the country. The message from the netroots, he said, should be clear: "We cannot drill and burn our way out of this problem. If we do, we will burn this planet."

"We can say no, we're not going to drill and burn out way out. We're going to invent and invest our way out," said Jones.

Jones focused on the current collusion of energy and economic crises. He warned, and noted that those with vested interests in fossil fuels are likely to try to encourage lower-income Americans to fight against new climate and energy policies for fear that they'll drive higher prices. It's the job of the netroots to send the message that this is "not something we're going to do to poor and vulnerable people. It's something we're going to do for and with vulnerable people" - and that new climate and energy policies are the only way to change the tide in the country.

Jones emphasized the pursuit of a new, green economy as the solution to all these problems - weaning the country of fossil fuels, giving consumers other options, creating new jobs, and including historically disadvantaged communities into the conversation.

"We have to change the terms of the debate," said Jones. "We've been getting our butts whooped by the 'drill, drill, drill' mantra."

He called for a "Green New Deal," led by a coalition of progressives from across regions, demographics, and interests. It will be this coalition that needs to come together to offer solutions that can counter the talking points of those who represent the old economy. It was message that played well with this crowd of online activists. "It's our turn now," he said.

As the Independent Green Party WRITE-IN CANDIDATE For Congress-Ohio's 6th District, I support Mr. Jones vision and program Green for All. Current Conservative Charlie Wilson will not support this program, for old-time fossil fuel lobbyists own him. It's time we send a Progressive Candidates to support this new renewable energy program for the Ohio Valley.

Dennis Spisak-Campaign Site: Http://www.votespisak.org/electspisak.tripod.com

Visit our links page to read more about Van Jones and his Green For All Project.