While unjust debt is widely discussed as a personal financial issue, this framing weakens our ability to fight back. In reality, unjust debt is deeply connected to systems of power. For example, debt is one of the most obvious ways financialization appears in the day-to -day lives of the entire working class in the United States. Debt also impacts individuals, communities and entire countries differently based on constructions of gender, race, class, age, geography, immigration status, and more. Understanding these differences is key to building solidarity.
In this discussion, I was joined by expert, Vanesa Contreras Capó. She is a feminist, professor, unionist, and animal rights activist based in Puerto Rico. Vanesa spent many years organizing and writing about power, care, resistance and the worlds we’re trying to build. In this live, we explored how debt is used as a tool of discipline and what it takes to build a movement rooted in connectivity and care.
Student Debt Crisis Updates:
Over the past few months — mainstream media, influencers, and even the Department of Education’s messaging — has left borrowers with more questions than answers. Many were pushed to leave the SAVE plan on July 1st, often without fully understanding their options.
The frustration and anger people are feeling right now is justified!
You are not a loan. Time to get organized!
Please fill out the below survey and share your experience with us:
The entire student debt crisis is a dumpster fire by design! We need a payment pause as soon as possible! Please sign our petition:
COME SEE US IN PERSON.
Debt Collective will be in New York — July 14, 2026!
Join us for a debtors’ assembly to discuss changes occurring in the federal student loan system this summer, to transform shame into solidarity with other debtors, and to learn more about what we’re working on.
This meeting will be in person only. Details will be sent to registrants via email – dinner will be provided on a first come, first serve basis! See you there.
