LexCollective (Non-Profit)’s Post

If you have been closely following the situation regarding the recent program changes at CalABA, there is a lot going on behind the scenes and I feel compelled to address the matter publicly. My statements are mine, however, the concerns I voice are echoed by many. While I understand that CalABA has a process for selecting talks that is designed to be equitable, blind, and time-limited, it is disheartening to hear that our panel which reflects vitally to the voices of those in the autistic and multiply disabled communities was removed from the program. This panel was not just any talk, but a crucial platform for activists courageously striving to share their experiences and drive change within society with have been viciously attacked and placed in false light by individuals backed by millions of dollars for years. Those attacking us are seeking to silence our community using their massive resource pool. It is concerning that, despite CalABA's stated commitment to equity, the removal of this panel seems to suggest otherwise, particularly given that the affected individuals have been the target of said well-funded opposition. This is not a simple issue of a fair and impartial system; it is a reflection of whose voices are amplified and whose are silenced. We recognize that CalABA is offering alternative options, yet the response appears to be driven more by a desire to manage the organization's image rather than a genuine effort to honor and uplift the critical activism work in our field. This is especially troubling considering that some of CalABA's own board members have actively participated in activism in solidarity with us, highlighting a disconnect between the organization's actions and the values it purports to uphold. Those board members were seeking equity in its truest sense, and to them veto their efforts in the name of equity ignores the meaning of the word, especially in this contaxt. Continued in the comments:

How Can Human Rights Be Promoted in Society? Promoting human rights in society requires integrated efforts from individuals, governments, and non-governmental organizations. Here are some effective ways to achieve this: Awareness and Education: Spreading awareness about human rights through education in schools, universities, workshops, and seminars. Individuals must learn their rights and duties. Legislation: Governments must enact laws that protect human rights and criminalize violations. These laws should be effective and enforceable. Community Participation: Encouraging individuals to participate in community and political activities. This can include joining human rights organizations or campaigns advocating for rights. Supporting Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Supporting organizations that work to promote human rights through donations or volunteering. These organizations play a vital role in monitoring violations and providing assistance to victims. Media: Utilizing media to disseminate information about human rights and violations. Media can help raise awareness and motivate the community to take action. Accountability: There must be mechanisms to hold individuals and entities accountable for human rights violations. These mechanisms can include trials, investigations, and independent reports. International Cooperation: Enhancing cooperation with international organizations like the United Nations to promote human rights on a global level. This can help in sharing knowledge and expertise. Through these efforts, societies can promote human rights and ensure the protection of individual dignity.

Still thinking about the quote from a Borealis Philanthropy email. Still struck by the use of the words, “co-creating a more tender and truthful media ecosystem” as a description of work especially for it to be in such sweet opposition to the the statement of the problem laid out. I am struck because I write a lot of grants for Invisible Institute and know how perfect the language is and wish I had written it. It also brings to mind a quote from Grace Lee Boggs and James Lee Boggs that has been on my mind lately. Borealis Quote: “For centuries, this reporting has stood in resistance and opposition to mainstream media, which has long muted, distorted, and ignored the narratives and information needs of BIPOC communities, making possible continued acts of harm and oppression that tear at the fabrics of our multi-racial democracy. #BorealisPhilanthropy Racial Equity in Journalism (#REJ) Fund exists to nourish and build up the capacity of those who are co-creating a more tender and truthful media sector, in which BIPOC communities can steward our stories from ideation to distribution, and the spaces in between. “ Lee Boggs Quote: “Rebellion is a stage in the development of revolution, but it is not revolution. … A rebellion disrupts the society but does not provide what is necessary to establish a new social order. “ ”truthful and tender”

A "drug-free world" mantra is unrealistic & does not address drug-related challenges. Instead, it creates room for destruction. We are grateful to all who joined in solidarity to commemorate the #SupportDontPunish #GlobalDayOfAction. 💚💚 Together, we can make a greater impact. Read on: https://lnkd.in/dKTGACc

Be the change you want to see in the world. 🌟 Instead of waiting for others to create the world we envision, let's take action and lead by example. Whether it's spreading kindness, advocating for justice, or promoting positivity, every small act contributes to a larger ripple of change. Let's inspire others through our actions and embody the values we wish to see reflected in the world. Together, we can create a brighter future for all. . . . Unlock a deeper understanding of your true potential by following @performanceonfire #BeTheChange #LeadByExample #MakeADifference #PositiveChange #InspireOthers #ActNow #CreateTheFuture #SpreadKindness #AdvocateForJustice #PromotePositivity #TakeAction #InfluenceChange #MakeAnImpact #LeadWithPurpose #BeTheDifference #Changemakers #CreateABetterWorld #InspirationForChange #BeTheExample #EmpowerOthers #BuildingABetterFuture #ChangeStartsWithYou #BeTheLight #TransformTheWorld #InitiateChange #BeTheInfluence #BeTheSolution #Performanceonfire

Four years ago on June 19th FACT made a commitment to racial justice and equity in the food system. We asked some serious questions about our work and about the inequitable food and farming system. We declared that: 1. We must dedicate ourselves to reaching out and listening to BIPOC farmers throughout the country. 2. We must address our lack of diverse leadership, starting with our board of directors. 3. We must examine our programs and policies to identify how they can reflect and sustain broader societal inequities and take corrective steps. We have made progress in the past 4 years. Our programs reach many more BIPOC farmers than they did previously. Our Board of Directors is more diverse and inclusive. We have joined organizations such as the HEAL Food Alliance that are working nationally for "people to have the right and means to produce, procure, prepare, share, and eat food that’s nutritionally and culturally appropriate, free from exploitation of themselves and others." We were encouraged at the time that so many of our partners and allies, especially within the not for profit and philanthropic worlds, were making similar commitments, and positive change was happening. Sadly, as often happens when there is progress towards an equitable society, there has also been a backlash against this work. Gene LaMarch wrote this insightful opinion piece in The Chronicle of Philanthropy. "What began as a long-overdue reckoning with America’s racial history following the murder of George Floyd four years ago has now led to assaults on affirmative action and almost any other measure aimed at increasing the representation of individuals from underrepresented backgrounds — or of even giving an honest accounting of our nation’s complicated past." We must continue moving forward in our effort to create a more just and equitable food and farm system. This Juneteenth we are committing ourselves at FACT to continue this important work.

CAT is happening this Sunday (14/9)! So let us update you on all the happenings. We Listen In is organising the events first workshop at 15:00. Participation is free of charge **Resilient Activism - Effective Self-Care** Sign up link: https://lnkd.in/eDhRQ89D As passionate civil activists, we dedicate ourselves to causes that matter deeply. But this commitment can come at a cost: activist burnout. We know how challenging it can be to sustain our energy and passion in the face of ongoing struggles. Join our collaborative workshop to learn how to sustain yourself long-term as a civil activist. What to Expect: * Engage in discussions about the realities of activist burnout * Identify the signs of burnout and understand its impact on our activism * Learn effective self-care strategies and resilience-building techniques * Develop a personal action plan to maintain your well-being while making a difference * Connect with fellow activists to share experiences and support one another * Let’s take this opportunity to recharge, reconnect, and renew our commitment to the causes we care about—together. ______ Be welcome to a day to celebrate independent civic actors and small organisations doing change.

Danielle’s post resonates deeply. “I can hold you accountable while holding you close”. 🖤 If we’re pursuing equity - in all spaces - let’s do it with empathy AND accountability. But for clarity I referring to spaces that want to change. Those spaces and people who are willing and curious. Where there is efforts to exert and maintain power, I believe needs direct and explicit action. 👏🏾👏🏾 #EquityWithEmpathy #NeighborlyLove #WorkspacesAsWellspaces

As an advocate and activist it has been very interesting to watch what is happening on Belize with recent protests as well as follow commentary online. For years a few of us have spoken up about injustice, human rights, land rights, education rights and other matters but that is an exhausting journey fought with lots of challenges and aometimes even death Recently I have noticed that others have started to advocate more seriously for the rights of the marginalized and abused in this nation and I have noticed a discernable shift. The activists have retreated to retreat mode to rest, regroup, recover and refocus and set new strategy. I have noticed we are writing, doing art, planting gardens, building homes, adding fencing and cameras and sorting and getting organized in our home lives more. That is a very critical shift in a country. It means that we, the core activists now have decided to prioritize our own well being over that of others. Activists tend to do this once people are more empowered and start to stand up and fight injustice on their own. Everyone needs a break. When activists retreat to their foxhole for a period of recovery it just means they are preparing for the next front to advance. It in no way means they have stopped fighting. It means they are sharpening their swords, seeking wisdom and guidance, preparing for the worst and hopeful of change and that they need a rest. When activists make posts about raising chickens and canning and painting and poetry and funny videos and sit in their hammocks and read it means it is nearly time to take cover because hard times are ahead and they are securing supply chain, fortifying strongholds, and making sure bugs aren't eating their food and rooting out anyone who does not pass vetting for inner circle work and streamlining budgets, projects and programs to free up resources for the next strategic advance. It may look like resting healing...it is not....it is war. Now excuse me while I go figure out how bake my banana bread in my broken oven and plant my sour sop seeds I have been saving for years. And then maybe I will swim and sit in my hammock under the breadfruit tree where all sorts of important matters are contemplated before stocking my food jars.

There are more than 100 organizations in the U.S. that support and disseminate documentaries by people of color. Yet, many of these organizations have remained invisible to philanthropy and to the documentary sector. Color Congress is on a mission to change that. By supporting, resourcing, and connecting this ecosystem of organizations, they are building a #NewAmericanNarrative that reflects the real faces, voices, and perspectives of our multiracial democracy. Read the latest report by Color Congress' brilliant Co-EDs Sahar Driver & Sonya Crespo Childress to learn more. And if you're a funder, I invite you to explore opportunities to fund this vital work -- either by supporting Color Congress, or directly funding one of their 100+ member organizations across the U.S. and territories. Download report below! https://lnkd.in/g5mqrktu