We Must Build Community
We want to build authentic partnerships that intentionally address gaps in how we engage, treat, think about, and behave towards one another. We must be intentional in developing trust, model humility, rooted in collective action, and shared power for genuine community—not just as leaders.
Some key points are necessary for us to partner as an Authentic Community:
1. An enduring community requires trust.
2. Trust must be at the heart of our community, and starts with being open and honest with ourselves.
3. We must leave behind egos.
4. Recognize our shared interests, missions, and common ground, and passions.
5. Do not blush over our common threads steeped in humanity.
6. Engage in inclusive conversations, not just sharing opinions, but truly sharing.
7. Keep the communication ongoing.
We start by creating an Authentic environment:
1. We must model/live the behavior, treatment, and change we want to experience in the world.
2. Embrace the fact we all come from diverse backgrounds and challenge assumptions in our thinking.
3. Encourage responsible truth-sharing while acknowledging it can be uncomfortable.
We will struggle to model these habits, and we must critique ourselves internally:
1. Be mindful of our thoughts, where are we harboring false narratives.
2. Work starts within, before we can truly practice it in our actions, deeds, and works.
3. Are our actions aligned with our Core Values and Beliefs?
4. Stop and reflect before responding in tense conversations.
5. Do not shame or blame for alignment.
Authenticity, Vulnerability, and the Power of Community
True community requires courage. It asks us to genuinely show up, embrace vulnerability, and engage with each other thoughtfully and respectfully. This means acknowledging our imperfections, investing in relationships, and leading with purpose and humility.
Perfection is an illusion that can hold us back. We fear being seen as lacking, while our strength lies in acknowledging our limitations and striving for growth. Community is built through active participation, not passive consumption. In turn, we invest in each other by partnering, communication and organizing, tapping the power of a supportive community. This is how we unlock our collective power to create positive change.
Head Advocate, Change & Innovation