The RE-AMP Network consists of over 130 nonprofits and foundations across eight Midwestern states working on climate change and energy policy with the goal to equitably eliminate greenhouse gas emissions in the Midwest by 2050. The mission of the RE-AMP Network is to set collective strategy and enable collaboration on climate solutions in the Midwest. We do this by connecting diverse perspectives, harnessing everyone’s unique expertise in spaces for intentional strategy-setting, and building the capacity for excellent implementation. We use these six values to guide our work to reach our North Star goal: Collaboration, Community, Democracy, Equity, Justice, and Scientific Rigor.
The RE-AMP Network is committed to equity. The Steering Committee, our governing body which sets the strategic direction of the Network, has adopted the Jemez Principles and the following statement on equity to inform their strategy setting.
We must rapidly transition to an equitable clean energy economy for a healthy climate, people, and other living beings. Our work to combat climate change must ensure that the structures perpetuating and exacerbating inequity are transformed. We must use processes that are centered around sharing power, influence and resources to bring about equitable outcomes. In devising proposed solutions, the voices of those most affected by climate change should be prioritized and supported— ensuring a meaningful role in shaping policy. To achieve this, we must first recognize key injustices in current energy and land use systems such as the inequitable health impacts of fossil fuel usage and the economic drain of energy and transportation costs on individuals and communities. We must also acknowledge the root causes of climate change that include among others: colonialism, slavery, genocide of indigenous people, private ownership of energy and the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of too few. When power shifts to people, we transform our future together for generations to come.
While some member organizations focus on policy advocacy, others work in frontline communities or focus on building the political will necessary for climate action. Groups including Great Plains Institute, Joyce Foundation, Ohio Citizen Action, Little Village Environmental Justice Organization, Climate Generation, Michigan Energy Options, McKnight Foundation, Sierra Club, Center for Rural Affairs, and many others bring a diversity of perspectives that not only position the Network to build a broader and more effective climate movement in the Midwest, but also amplify Network members’ collective power and ability to achieve results.
By thinking systemically and acting collaboratively as peers, funders and advocates within the RE-AMP Network have been working diligently over the last decade toward our shared goal. This video gives a fresh take on the Network’s story. We hope you tune in, and enjoy!
