Giving Compass' Take: 

• The Summit On Inequality and Opportunity discussed many interesting topics ranging from the intersectionality of the #metoo movement to unequal educational opportunities. The Summit brings about discussions that are able to highlight important issues to make us re-think how inequality, justice, and opportunity look different to different people in this country. 

• How can we best address some of the issues listed below? What steps can you take as a donor? 

• There are many important findings about inequality in the United States and how that shapes the opportunities a person has in the future. 

Launched in 2015, the Summit on Inequality and Opportunity is a collaboration between the Aspen Institute’s public and policy programs who are tackling the complex issues of inequality and poverty. The event showcases a series of conversations featuring the newest research, policies, and emerging innovations in the fight. This year’s summit, held on International Women’s Day, welcomed a diverse range of speakers including educators, youth activists, and a family court judge.

The most thought-provoking conversation topics covered:

  • The intersectionality of the #metoo movement
  • How to combat the opioid crisis
  • Rethinking our assumptions about poverty
  • Education is not the great equalizer
  • Financial screening mechanisms are political
  • The importance of addressing historical inequalities
  • It’s hard to break out of financial scarcity

Watch excerpts from these conversations by Lalini Pedris & Nicole Corea at The Aspen Institute