Common Future’s Systems Change Coalition coalition was created as a monthly engagement that brings together leaders across the economic justice field hoping to transition from direct/social service work into advocacy and policy change. The coalition was designed as a consistent space where organizers, activists, practitioners, scholars and ecosystem builders could step out of silos and think together about the needs of the broader field.
What we've been up to
Across sessions, the coalition surfaced both common challenges and emerging solutions. Members examined gaps in access for community-centered nonprofits, the role of narrative strategy in countering harmful narratives and the importance of building internal models that center community control. The coalition served as a bridge between local experiments and national strategy, helping leaders learn from one another while advancing a more equitable economic future.
In our final session, members reflected on the courage it takes to do this work when the path forward is complex and uncertain. Others named the importance of shared language, narrative strategy, and collaboration across movements. A central question the group left with was: when do we transform existing systems, and when do we build new ones altogether?
This conversation revealed a collective hunger for space to problem-solve, test strategies, and work through real challenges together. That energy is shaping what comes next: a space for collaboration and applied learning where leaders can bring their local projects to life in partnership with peers across the nation.
Coming soon!
The System Change Action Lab is a 6-month virtual learning space for leaders and organizations advancing economic justice in their communities. Common Future will select 10 organizations to participate, with each application representing a pair of partner organizations working together on a shared systems change project. Each organization will receive a modest stipend and funding support to strengthen their collaboration and impact. More information to come in January 2026!
Read more about the Systems Change Coalition
Read more about the Systems Change Coalition