Vol. 18 (2023): Capturing Social Innovation Models by Marginalized Communities from Collective Grassroots Action to Building a Pathway of Systemic Social Change

Dear Reader,

We are delighted to share with you the latest edition of our journal, which is dedicated to exploring the power of collective action in advancing social innovation models for sustainable community development.

As you may know, many organizations and collectives are increasingly recognizing the critical role that collective action plays in bringing about inclusive and equitable social change. Atmashakti, a rights-based catalyst organization that coalesces empowerment of Tribal and Dalit communities with a consistent focus on collectivizing the community in Odisha, is a prime example of this approach. Through its work, Atmashakti has shown that no organization or individual can achieve significant social change alone and that a collective approach is pivotal to building a thriving social system that benefits all.

This journal edition highlights the practices, perspectives, and attestations that identify and capture social innovation models, such as the collective actions of the historically marginalized across the country. We aim to showcase how these models empower participants to claim their rights over resources like forests, water, and the environment and to ensure their constitutional, civil, and economic rights. By bringing together all of these elements for broader dissemination and recognition, these models aim at systemic changes that benefit the entire community.

We hope that the stories and insights shared in this journal edition will inspire and inform your work in social innovation and community development. We can build a more just and equitable world through collective action and a people-centric approach.

Thank you for your continued support and readership.

Sincerely,

Ruchi Kashyap, Atmashakti Trust 

Nicholas Torres, Social Innovations Journal