The Global Tapestry of Alternatives (GTA) is an initiative seeking to create solidarity networks and strategic alliances amongst networks and alliances addressing the polycrisis at local, regional and global levels. It functions as a network of networks documenting, identifying, connecting and weaving together a tapestry of alternatives. In doing so, the communities, cultures, initiatives and networks that the GTA involves or supports include those that explicitly recognize the deeper connection between humans and non-human nature; the need for climate balance – especially in addressing the fundamental flaws of the current economic system; and foster regenerative economies that support biocultural systems.
The idea of a GTA emerged from the Indian process called Vikalp Sangam (Alternatives Confluence) and in discussion with other similar processes such as Crianza Mutua in Mexico. It was first formally proposed at the 5th International Degrowth Conference (Budapest) in 2016. The idea grew slowly over the next several years, and was launched in early 2019 after seeking endorsement from many key regional and global movements and networks. The GTA is now endorsed by more than 60 international organizations and networks and many individual referents (activists, public intellectuals, academics, etc.).
ORA Action Research Grant Project
As GTA moves towards achieving their intention of facilitating ‘encounters’, it is planning to organize an international gathering of Weavers, with the participation of the representatives of many of the GTA’s endorsers and the core team. This will take place in the second half of 2023.
In preparation for the meeting, GTA will hold a series of conversations with the invited Weavers, endorsing networks regarding their understanding of the crises and alternatives emerging from the frontline communities already contending with several crises. The aim of the conversations is to examine what different groups understand as alternatives for systemic transformation and how they have worked towards this through their own processes and organizing. These insights will be assembled in a systematic manner and shared with a wider audience with the goal of provoking further action for systemic transformation.