Van Jones, a Yale Law School graduate and Bay Area community organizer, uses words to inspire, encourage and educate.
Jones is the author of The Green Collar Economy: How One Solution Can Fix Our Two Biggest Problems
The two biggest problems he identifies are sociological inequality and the ecological crisis.
Jones writes that we need to repair the earth, oppose racism and uplift the disadvantaged. He also expressed a belief that “our sisters and brothers in the developing world need the full engagement and cooperation of Western governments.”
The main principles of the green economy are “equal protection; equal opportunity; and reverence for all Creation.” According to Jones, reverence for all creation means no throw-away species or resources, children, neighborhoods or nations.
The problem-makers in our economy are “the war makers, polluters, and incarcerators,” according to Jones. “It is unlikely that the present high lords of oil, coal and armaments will reverse course or give up their power without a struggle. A new force must emerge to realign American politics, transform the political landscape and supplant the Texas/Pentagon axis.”
Jones explains that his mission is for the “oppressed to confront and defeat their oppressors.”
In an interview with us at San Quentin, he said that he became tired of confrontational politics and sought ways to find solutions.
Jones’ strength is his ability to bridge differences between people. He looks for common ground and allies rather than seeking targets to attack.
“Goals can be shared even by people who disagree on many points,” he writes.
Jones used to embrace the role model of David confronting Goliath. Now, “I realize that it requires that the protagonists always be small and marginalized, and it requires a politics of confrontation and opposition. Such a politics may serve us poorly as we confront the dangers that will demand cooperation on a massive scale.”
His new model is Noah and his wife. They are leaders who must make plans for a difficult future while trying to save as many people and fellow species as possible.
Jones’ vision of politics would focus on creating something new rather than confronting something old. It would be more about “proposition” and less about “opposition.” The Government must protect and benefit our most vulnerable populations, he believes.
Jones is passionate but self-effacing and in his San Quentin appearance, he used both wit and humility. He conceded to us that there were some gaps in his vision of a green economy.
Jones appearance at San Quentin created a palpable excitement. He introduced himself to many of the inmates seated in the Protestant Chapel, approaching them with a smile and handshake. During a question and answer period, he asked for the name of the questioners, and was sincere in addressing any issues raised. He was quick to admit when he did not have an answer.
Jones inspires confidence and trust. He acknowledged Diana Frappier a criminal defense attorney who worked with Jones for 15 years in the Bay Area Police Watch and introduced her to the audience. She said that when you tell people to make different choices you need to give them something to choose. She summarized the goal of the green economy as “providing real opportunities, decent job and careers.”
Jones writes, “I pray that this book will give hope, encouragement, and inspiration to those who are working to move our society along the path to a green future.” I believe we can get there.”
To us, and many of those who had the privilege of hearing Van Jones speak, he provided just that inspiration.
