BEACON 1: The Power Calculus | |
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“If we measure the danger to our institutions by the number of disagreements they must manage, then diversity is dangerous.”
~Knight Foundation
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At the request of the BSCF, WE in the World sought to adapt a field-tested assessment, to help multi-sector collaborations (MSCs) know how much and how well they are implementing strategies to address inequities in their community outcomes, their collaboration, and within each of their partner organizations. Scoring of the questions allows for placement along the continuum from Forming to Learning to Thriving. This issue delves into shared power and the bright spots thereof within our Better Ancestor community. How do we balance out the power? Who sits at the table and whose voices are amplified? | |
BEACON for Equity: Toward Power Sharing
By: Marion Olang, WE in the World
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Reflecting on power sharing, Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution raises critical questions for me around power dynamics and the formation of social hierarchies. Often misinterpreted and misused, Darwin’s theory has been co-opted to justify human classification and societal inequality. This flawed application of determinism has embedded notions of inequality deep within our psyche, creating systemic issues we are now struggling to dismantle.
As I strive to stay positive about the potential for systemic change, Darwin’s voice echoes in my mind, seemingly advocating for the status quo. In that same breath, I visualize Plato’s hierarchy of classes, rooted in his theory of the tripartite soul, reinforcing these divisive structures. Both thinkers, through their siloed approaches, seem to perpetuate the idea that diversity is inherently divisive rather than a unifying force in human existence.
In their school of thought, we are all victims of nature’s will and not systems and structures. In other words, presumably, privilege and wealth is earned while pain and hardship is deserved. This dichotomy implies that the systemic gaps we experience are subject to nature’s laws and all attempts to go toward a contrary direction might be futile. These theories attribute power to a fraction of the human population, persons of a particular class.
Navigating the deeply ingrained divisive conditioning requires a multifaceted approach that challenges the deterministic views of Darwin and Plato, which have historically been misapplied to justify power imbalances. To move forward, we must challenge these entrenched notions. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all people and valuing diversity as a source of strength, we can begin to create a more equitable and inclusive society. This requires a conscious effort to dismantle hierarchical structures and to cultivate an environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, free from the constraints of historical determinism and artificial classifications.
| In recent years, we've witnessed a profound shift from hierarchical power structures to more horizontal, shared frameworks that emphasize interdependence, interconnectedness, and collaboration. This modern approach is grounded in the principle of equity—that all individuals are inherently equal. With the rise of democracy and the proliferation of information, communities are increasingly informed and engaged in decision-making processes. Those once perceived as indifferent are now actively reclaiming power, demanding inclusion in spaces where decisions that impact their lives are made. | |
"...a concern for de-fragmentation and cross-group coalition building
may force advocates to consider how their approaches may inadvertently be
contributing to exclusion, identity-based breaking,
and democratic degradation."
- Countering Authoritarianism
By John A. Powel & Sara Grosssman
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Our collective focus has evolved from mere representation to active participation. This means power is not just symbolically given but genuinely shared with the community, ensuring their voices are heard on crucial matters. This transition fosters transparency, accountability, and responsibility.
Are we on the right path towards power sharing? Absolutely. There is a growing belief and evidence that power is indeed shifting from a select few to the broader community. I firmly believe that power belongs to the people, and reclaiming it signals the real possibility of transformative change.
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From our extensive work with communities, we have witnessed firsthand how power sharing can act as a catalyst for change. By supporting communities, fostering inclusive decision-making, and promoting active participation, we are laying the foundation for a more just and equitable society. This shift is not just a theoretical ideal but a practical, observable reality, proving that when power is genuinely shared, communities thrive, and real change becomes possible.
In the context of community development and social equity, sharing power stands out as a transformative approach that fosters true power and sustainable progress. This bright spot reflects the positive outcomes and potential unleashed when power is equitably distributed among community members. We use the Beacon assessment tool to track our progress, asking key questions like Who’s around the table? Are we sharing power on our journey to equity? Are we focusing on structural changes that will make significant and long lasting impact? How are we holding ourselves accountable?
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Changemaker Spotlight
Bright spot of Shared Power:
A Conversation with Dana Torres
In this episode, Dana Torres from the Guatemala Maya Center discusses the center's mission and shift toward interdependence through the Thriving Communities Grant. The center's clinic provides comprehensive healthcare, blending modern and traditional medicine. Dana explains the center's Equity Action Labs, which aim to support community members, especially those with less power, by developing their leadership skills and respecting their cultural beliefs.
A key focus is addressing violence against women by building their capacity to lead support groups and healing spaces. The center emphasizes transparency and inclusivity, using Circulos (circles) to ensure equality and dismantle hierarchical power dynamics. Their quick response to community issues demonstrates their commitment to immediate action, fostering trust and active participation. The Guatemala Maya Center's approach of power sharing, transparency, and mutual aid serves as a model for creating equitable and supportive communities.
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Eden (Eden International)
Eden (Eden International) is an organization that employs and supports adults with intellectual disabilities in Guatemala! Meet our team and see what we do in the beautiful Antigua, Guatemala!
| #ChangemakerSpotlight #WE4Equity #WEWINTogether #Equity #Change #realchange #betterancestor | |
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BEACON For Equity Assessment 1
How well is your communication coalition sharing power? Have you had a conversation around this? Check out where your community is and assess your progress.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on power sharing and fostering interdependence in your community. Share your experiences and ideas with us! Where are you on your journey? Find Your Tribe on Mighty Networks. You can learn more about BEACON and take the assessment here. What are you doing to share power in your community or collaboration?
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Join us for a webinar outlining our recently released Legal and Policy Assistance to Address Racial Health Equity call for applications (RHE CFA) to support work on racial health equity. We are seeking applicants developing or working on a specific issue that prioritizes racial equity that would benefit from legal and policy technical assistance. We can assist with work that is at any stage of development.
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Chromatic Black and WE in the World's J3L Winter Retreat: 2024 & Beyond: Creating a Shared Future | |
Envisioning a transformative future for 2024 and beyond, we are assembling a vanguard of movement leaders, united by the audacious goal of evolving into the ancestors that future generations will admire and emulate. | |  |
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Join our community of Better Ancestor by Signing The pledge and commit to making the world better for our children and generations after them. We owe it to them. Share widely and contribute to a thriving world. | |
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Leonard-Litz LGBTQ Foundation: LGBTQ+ Community Grants (New Hampshire)
Type: Foundation
Due Date: Rolling
Match Required: No Cost Share
Overview: The purpose of this program is to help LGBTQ+ people fulfill their potential by funding nonprofit organizations that advance the interests and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community through advocacy and with programs and services that meet the needs of LGBTQ+ people. Funding will be provided for life-affirming services that address one or more of the following focus areas:
- Health and wellness
- Crisis intervention
- Racial justice
- Advocacy and community engagement
- Social assistance and programming
Huntington National Bank: Charitable Grant Program (Wisconsin)
Type: Foundation
Due Date: Rolling
Match Required: No Cost Share
Overview: The purpose of this program is to contribute to the development of healthy, vibrant communities. Funding will support projects that improve self-sufficiency and quality of life, as well as advance social and economic equality, in communities served by the funding agency.
Support will be provided for projects in the following focus areas:
- Community revitalization and stabilization
- Community services
- Affordable housing
- Economic and community development
- Racial/social equity
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