The Atlanta Way, a concept that dates back to the early days of Atlanta, emerged as a driving force during the Civil Rights era when white and Black business and civic leaders worked together to peacefully resolve problems and issues. The cooperative approach of business and civic leaders helped Atlanta become a beacon of peace and resolution during the 1960s through the early 2000s.
An example of the Atlanta Way occurred when a new CEO would move to Atlanta, business leaders would welcome him to the city (yes, they were almost always male) and let him know that in Atlanta, leaders were expected to not only pay their office rent, but also their civic rent.
Today, the close-knit business and civic relationships of the past have changed. Some have even proclaimed that Atlanta is losing its way.
Atlanta Way 2.0 is a modern-day concept aimed at connecting people and organizations for the greater good of the Atlanta region. Examples include bringing together organizations with related missions to work on common goals, introducing executives who are new to the city and helping them form community ties, and linking regional leaders facing challenges with people who can help them work on tangible solutions.
Unlike the historic Atlanta Way, composed mostly of powerful male leaders, Atlanta Way 2.0 will strive to be much more inclusive – embracing civic-minded people from all walks of life to become part of the multi-layered fabric that makes up our region.
