Diverse communities in the U.S. have been standing together to bring about social change at the grassroots level in an unprecedented wave of euphoria set off by the inauguration of Barack Obama. Whether in public meetings, workshops, or protests the unity of purpose and momentum is palpable. What will it take to translate that human energy into real change?

In the streets of Oakland, an injustice to one man, Oscar Grant, was taken up as an injustice to all. Thousands chanted with one unified voice, “I am Oscar Grant!” They collectively vowed put an end to police violence against non-violent civilians.

In a meeting hall in San José, five parallel public workshops, each representing residents of diverse communities, hammered out ideas and action plans to create and sustain civic engagement in the process of effecting social change at the grassroots level. Read more and view photos