Neighboring and Antiracism

Asset Based Community ...NeighboringNeighboring TipThe Neighboring Movement

Feb 7

I have been thinking a lot lately about the intersectionality of the work of The Neighboring Movement with the work of being antiracist. Our purpose in the world is to nurture thriving and authentic communities. As we go about every step of our work, it is important to explicitly name that we cannot create the type of communities we desire without also constantly seeking to overthrow forces that limit the liberty and humanity of the people within the community.I am reminded of a well-known quote from Aboriginal Australian elder Lilla Watson: “If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.”

Watson’s quote shares common values with the asset based approach we use within our community organizing and helps see how the simple practices we recommend for neighboring can also become anti-racist action with a bit of intentionality.

When we say all people are gifted, we must seek to understand the gifts we ignore because of bias and privilege.
When we say move at the speed of trust, we should recognize that trust is not given universally in our culture and that people who are historically marginalized must do extra work to earn trust.
When we say living authentically creates joy, we should honor that many people are forced to live inauthentically for their own financial safety and security.

We are committed to the work of antiracism because without it NONE of us can experience liberation.This month, Black History Month, we are highlighting our commitment to this work on our social media by highlighting exceptional black leaders who we have learned from. These leaders help us grow in our ability to unlock meaningful community and we are grateful for their leadership.Use the social links below to see what we are posting!