The gap between the super-rich and the working class and poor has never been wider. In Oregon between 1976 and 1986 automation alone accounted for the loss of 13,000 wood products jobs. With the export of industrial and other jobs to countries with struggling economies, we seem to be socially back-sliding into the early industrial age, complete with economic colonialism and a new set of Robber Barons (CEO’s), high tech sweat shops, long hours, and no Union representation

Effective reform must begin in more than one place. We need a mutually reinforcing relationship among major social organizations. I would like to see a renewal of the Progressive Movement allied with the modern environmental movement to turn this regressive social trend around. The key to our ultimate success is an enlightened, egalitarian education with a focus on ecological literacy and equal access to new technology patterned after natural systems. Equal opportunity is a major problem everywhere people suffer from poverty and elitist economic oppression. In their own enlightened best interests, government, industry, and everyone with the means, have a moral obligation to provide those opportunities. We, as a society, can do this in part by funding the restoration and stabilization of ecosystems, which ultimately support populations and economies.