We are a community-driven coalition fighting for fair access to jobs, accountable economic development, and dignity for every resident of Syracuse and Onondaga County.
We are a dynamic coalition of organizations and residents from Syracuse and Onondaga County—friends, neighbors, business leaders, and community-minded advocates united by a shared commitment to economic justice.
We are deeply concerned by the lack of access to quality job opportunities for Syracuse residents and the poverty that results from it. We work to combat these inequities by advocating for job training and employment pathways for unemployed and underemployed workers, particularly in communities of color.
We believe that publicly subsidized economic development—including tax breaks for private developers—must deliver equitable economic benefits for all residents and strengthen the well-being of every neighborhood.
We fight for dignity, fairness, and accountability in local economic policy.
WHAT WE DO
Imagine
We believe that a more inclusive economy is possible in Syracuse by creating policies and partnerships that promote local employment.
Educate
We educate ourselves, the community, local leaders, organizations, and public officials on initiatives that foster gainful local employment.
Collaborate
We work with elected officials and organizations to create policies that provide opportunities for disenfranchised communities.
Advocate
We advocate, organize, and fight against "business as usual," as well as the systems and practices that serve as barriers to creating a more inclusive economy and society in Syracuse.
OUR WINS
2023: We pushed, and the Syracuse Industrial Development Agency (SIDA) adopted a community benefits policy requiring each project to commit to 10% City resident hiring and 10% MWBE goals for developers to receive tax breaks.
2014: we pushed for the Joint School Construction Board to establish a 20% hiring goal for Syracuse workers on Syracuse City School District renovation projects.
2016: We advocated for the Syracuse Resident Employment Ordinance, which was passed the Syracuse Common Council. This ordinance requires City residents to perform 20% of total workforce hours on City projects costing a minimum of $100,000.
2023: With national and community partners, we led the way, and the New York Department of Transportation a 15% local hire incentive for its I-81 project – providing up to 1 million work hours for Syracusans.
