Is There a ‘New American Localism’?

From homegrown produce to community news to small town banks, NPR writer Linton Weeks thinks there’s a new trend in America to keep things local.

Even though we seem to hear endless chatter about the “global village” and how everything is interconnected with the internet, Weeks writes that “many in our country seem to be turning toward a New American Localism.”

Weeks cites a recent report from the U.S. Census that says the moving rate in our country is at a record low, suggesting that people are staying put—and turning their attention to what’s close to home. 

He cites examples in different sectors of society. “Grocery bins are burgeoning with local food,” writes Weeks. There’s a backlash against large, corporate banks after financial turmoil. The author even points to more local philanthropic giving. And, as evidenced with Patch, people are reading local, too, he writes. (At least you are!)

Do you agree that people are starting to “Think Locally, Act Locally”? Do you see proof that people are more interested and invested in Norcross than they were 10 years ago? 5 years ago?