MS: Tell us a little about the history of World Localization Day. How did it start, and what was its mission?
AL: World Localization Day was launched in 2020 by Local Futures, an international nonprofit organization. It began as a one-off event to shine a light on localization as a powerful strategy for systemic change—especially at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic was highlighting the critical importance of strong communities and locally produced goods.
We brought together over 100 diverse voices from around the world—economists, farmers, activists, artists, writers, and more—for an online event calling for a global-to-local shift. The message was that we need to move away from a corporate-controlled global economy that serves the few, and toward place-based economies that serve people and the planet. The event resonated widely, drawing participation from 172 countries.
We were encouraged and decided to continue the campaign, inviting others to get involved. In 2021, more than 80 organizations across 30 countries joined forces to co-create a month-long program of online and in-person events focused on localization. Since then, World Localization Day has continued to grow, now including participants and partners in over 50 countries across six continents.
MS: World Localization Day is on June 21. Is there something especially “localist” about that date?
AL: June 21 marks the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere—a moment deeply connected to the land and the natural rhythms of life. For centuries, diverse cultures around the world have celebrated this day in unique and meaningful ways. It seemed only fitting to choose this date to honor and celebrate localization.
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