Trust and the Crisis of Grievance

I just finished reviewing the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer. This annual report, now in its 25th year, offers a powerful lens into global trust. Back in 2021, business rose to the top as the most trusted institution - outpacing government and nonprofits. That said, in recent years world events have put trust across all institutions under pressure.
 
This year’s report reviews the concept of “grievance,” showing that the degree to which people feel grievance correlates directly with their level of trust. It makes sense: grievance fosters a zero-sum mindset – your gain is my loss. As Grievance grows, trust in leaders erodes. 
 
And yet, there is hope. According to the report, in the U.S., business is still the only institution seen as both competent and ethical. That presents a profound opportunity—and responsibility. By investing in well-paid jobs, future-ready skills, and community well-being, business can foster optimism. But no single company or leader can act alone. Trust, growth, and prosperity require collective action. 
 
That means working together to:

• Invest in local communities
• Support quality information
• Build job skills for the future

When trust increases, economic optimism can overpower grievance.
 
This is where your Chamber comes in. Beyond convening, we are committed to reflecting—and leaning into—our community. At our core, we are committed to:

• Community impact
• Courageous leadership
• Working in partnership

The crisis of grievance is real—but so is the opportunity. By engaging deeply and leading with compassion, we can build on the trust that sustains growth, fuels optimism, and builds a better future for our region
 
See you in the trenches,
B

Chamber Check-in 8/26/25