How we work

PRINCIPLES FOR EQUITABLE AND SUSTAINABLE GOVERNANCE

These principles have been adapted from the work of Rise Stockton partners and are a reflection of conversations that have been ongoing in Stockton over the past several years: 

1. Champion Environmental Justice

We believe in practicing fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people to enjoy the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards, and equal access to the decision-making process to have a healthy environment in which to live, learn, and work. Our work together must empower the communities most impacted by pollution and climate change to achieve environmental justice. 

2. Community-Driven, Of the People

We work collaboratively to create community-first solutions of the people, for the people experiencing the greatest impacts of climate change. Ongoing community engagement should identify community needs, center and promote the leadership of impacted residents, build community champions, and deliver direct and meaningful benefits to community members.

3. Center Racial & Social Equity

Intentionally discriminatory policies, institutionalized racism, and decades of disinvestment have led to inequitable power and resource distribution. Communities of color in Stockton’s formerly redlined communities continue to face unequal outcomes with regard to health, the environment and the local economy.

We must therefore center equity, not just as a commitment, but as a practice. Equity is transforming the behaviors, institutions, and systems that disproportionately harm marginalized communities. Equity means increasing access to power, redistributing and providing additional resources, and eliminating barriers to opportunity to empower marginalized communities to thrive and reach their full potential.

4. Achieve Socioeconomic, Environmental & Health Benefits

Our communities require more than just greenhouse gas emission reductions; we need employment and educational opportunities that invest in our human capital, health and well-being. Together, we seek more ownership over the decisions that impact us - recognizing that economic development has sometimes represented regressive policies in our communities. Instead, we believe we can align investments with neighborhood priorities, and develop without displacement. 

5. Enter with Goodwill

This collaborative work is deeply relational, and requires that all partners are committed to work toward the common good in the spirit of trust and integrity. All partners serving their community are committed to putting these guiding principles into practice. We commit to showing up with authenticity, treating others with respect, learning our common history, and actively considering views that are different than our own.