Covering social change and Appalachian solidarity, Common Appalachian is a chronicle of the activists, leaders, community members, and change-makers who deeply love this region and its people.
I just found your Substack and had to say how glad I am to stumble across it. I grew up in the northern Appalachians, then spent a long stretch out in California with the Air Force (that’s where I met my husband). We finally made our way back here after retiring, and I’d forgotten how beautiful the land is—and how open and kind folks are. It really did feel like coming home. What’s surprised and heartened me most is seeing how many people here care deeply about helping others and making things better for everyone. It’s such a good reminder that this region isn’t defined by the old stereotypes—it’s full of people with heart, vision, and a sense of community. I’m looking forward to reading more of your stories and learning about the good work happening here.
Welcome back! It’s a special region, and while social change is slow and frustrating, there a many kind people here. That was on full display after Hurricane Helene—regardless of our differences, neighbors came together and helped, clearing fallen trees from roads, distributing essentials, and just checking in on one another.
So many ppl are doing great work in our Appalachian communities!
Vance joins a long line of hucksters and political opportunists exploiting Appalachians. Although I've never written about him directly, he embodies everything Common Appalachian stands against.
His politics have been/are absolutely devastating for Appalachia--especially its working class and marginalized communities.
I just found your Substack and had to say how glad I am to stumble across it. I grew up in the northern Appalachians, then spent a long stretch out in California with the Air Force (that’s where I met my husband). We finally made our way back here after retiring, and I’d forgotten how beautiful the land is—and how open and kind folks are. It really did feel like coming home. What’s surprised and heartened me most is seeing how many people here care deeply about helping others and making things better for everyone. It’s such a good reminder that this region isn’t defined by the old stereotypes—it’s full of people with heart, vision, and a sense of community. I’m looking forward to reading more of your stories and learning about the good work happening here.
Welcome back! It’s a special region, and while social change is slow and frustrating, there a many kind people here. That was on full display after Hurricane Helene—regardless of our differences, neighbors came together and helped, clearing fallen trees from roads, distributing essentials, and just checking in on one another.
So many ppl are doing great work in our Appalachian communities!
LOL I should've said we now live in East Tennessee, and I'm so glad of it!
Great job telling the truth!
Much appreciated, Mary Charlotte! Hard to believe it's already been 2.5+ years doing this. Your support definitely gives CA some needed momentum.
https://open.substack.com/pub/captainfransentim/p/jd-vance-the-soul-selling-boot-licking?r=5jmmex&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Vance joins a long line of hucksters and political opportunists exploiting Appalachians. Although I've never written about him directly, he embodies everything Common Appalachian stands against.
His politics have been/are absolutely devastating for Appalachia--especially its working class and marginalized communities.