Everything.Coop

In 1883, Alice Acland saw the power of co-ops not just for economic opportunity, but as a platform for women’s advocacy, education and leadership. She co-founded the Co-operative Women's Guild, creating a space where women could learn, organize, and fight for fair wages, voting rights, and maternity care, paving the way for generations to come. Her vision embodies this year’s #WomensHistoryMonth theme “Moving Forward Together: Women Educating & Inspiring Generations”, reminding us that when women come together, entire communities thrive. #WomenInCoops #MovingForwardTogether

This Women’s History Month, we’re kicking off our inaugural episode with cooperative advocates Jessica Gordon-Nembhard, Ph.D., Professor at John Jay College, and Ahzjah Netjer-Simons, Co-Executive Director of the Georgia Cooperative Development Center. This Thursday, join Vernon and his guests as they discuss their podcast experiences of introducing listeners to Black women cooperators, insights gained from the interviews, and their future plans. https://bit.ly/4h8gH79 #WomensHistoryMonth #WHM

Cooperatives have long been a driving force for women's economic empowerment. Unlike traditional business models, co-ops emphasize democratic decision-making, ensuring that women's voices are heard at every level. As we celebrate #WomensHistoryMonth, tag a woman making an impact in the co-op space! #WomenInCoops

Do you have a favorite book about women in #cooperatives, mutual aid, or economic empowerment? Share it in the comments and let’s build a must-read list together as we celebrate the #WomensHistoryMonth.

As the transition from agricultural labor to industrial work in railroads, factories and trades took place, Black-led mutual aid societies, farmer co-ops, and labor unions such as Colored Farmers Alliance provided a pathway to economic independence for African Americans. This #BlackHistoryMonth, as we look back, Black workers legacy from the 19th century reminds us that solidarity and shared ownership remain vital tools for economic justice today. #AfricanAmericansanLabor #Cooperatives

He grew up in Baltimore and stumbled into co-ops during his internship in a non-profit organization that focused on housing co-ops. For our #TBT, we take a look at our 2025 first episode with Ron Hantz, Executive Director of the Network for Developing Conscious Communities (NDCC) as he shares insights into the growth required in the co-op movement within Black communities. https://bit.ly/40e9U6A

As we conclude the #BlackHistoryMonth series, Vernon will be hosting three leaders from VOLTS (Village of Leaders Thriving in Solidarity); Camille Kerr, co-founder of Upside Down Consulting, Edrinna Bryant, co-owner of ChiFresh Kitchen and Jumpstart Housing Cooperative, and Sharon Hopkins, co-owner of 6ix-cess Foods. Tune in on Thursday to find out how cooperative ownership can drive long-term economic security, self-determination, and systemic change. https://bit.ly/3QwaXck #AfricanAmericansandLabor #BHM

For nearly 40 years, Cooperative Home Care Associates (CHCA) - the largest worker-owned #cooperative in the U.S., has been a powerhouse in the home care industry. With 98% of its workforce being Black and Latina women, CHCA isn’t just providing jobs, it’s creating economic empowerment, worker ownership, and quality care. As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, let's also celebrate CHCA which has proven that when workers have a seat at the table, they build stronger communities. Learn more at https://www.chcany.org/ #AfricanAmericansandLabor

What are some of the challenges and opportunities for #cooperatives? This Thursday, at 3:30pm ET, join the UNITED STATES FEDERATION OF WORKER COOPERATIVE team for a government relations panel live stream. Register today at https://lnkd.in/gh2DjMfU

For generations, African Americans have fought for economic justice, dignity in labor, and community self-determination through cooperatives. COOPERATION JACKSON OF MISSISSIPPI is carrying this legacy forward by creating a solidarity economy rooted in worker-owned cooperatives and democratic self-management in Jackson, Mississippi. From #cooperative businesses to land trusts, they are proving that economic democracy is not just possible, it’s necessary. Their work reflects the resilience and innovation of Black labor movements throughout history while building a future where communities control their own resources. Learn more and support their mission: cooperationjackson.org #AfricanAmericansAndLabor #BlackCooperatives #BlackHistoryMonth