After years in entrepreneurship, various industries, and civic engagement, I’ve noticed how little many people truly understand about government, power structures, and how to pursue their aspirations within these systems. This widespread knowledge gap often hinders progress and blocks our society from realizing its full potential.

Motivated by this realization—and inspired by the invaluable work of Catherine Austin Fitts—I wrote this book to help close that gap. It brings together key publications from Catherine and the Solari team (listed in the appendix), along with relevant government documents.

As Co-Chair of the Sustainability Committee for the NAWIC Midwest Region, I’ve seen that even strong, capable women in construction often aren't familiar with who really holds power or how change happens. But the truth is: the power lies with citizens. Without understanding our systems and how to use our rights, our visions may never become reality.

This book is for women in construction, for Americans, and for people everywhere who want to understand how society is shaped—and how we can shape it in return. Government is ultimately a service created by and for the people. The more we know, the stronger we become.

Change starts with us. May this book offer the guidance to move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose.—Dr. Lillian Ostojich, MD Chicago, 2025.