National Equity Project Community Agreements: How They Can Help Foster Inclusion and Justice
The National Equity Project is an organization that aims to bridge the gap of inequality and promote social justice in communities across the United States. One of the tools they use to achieve this goal is the Community Agreements.
Community Agreements are a set of principles that guide group interactions and establish a safe, respectful, and inclusive space for everyone involved. These agreements are designed to empower people to speak up, listen actively, and seek common ground instead of focusing on differences or conflicts.
The National Equity Project has identified six core Community Agreements that can help foster more equitable and collaborative interactions:
1. Be present and fully engaged: This agreement encourages people to be mindful and engaged during group activities and discussions, to actively listen and respond with empathy and respect.
2. Speak your truth: This agreement encourages people to share their experiences, thoughts, and perspectives honestly and openly, even if they differ from others.
3. Listen actively: This agreement encourages people to listen attentively to others, to seek to understand instead of judging or dismissing, and to ask clarifying questions.
4. Accept discomfort: This agreement acknowledges that discussing topics like race, gender, or other social justice issues can be uncomfortable or challenging, but it is necessary to create a more inclusive and just society.
5. Be willing to change: This agreement encourages people to be open to learning, reflection, and growth, to acknowledge their biases and privileges, and to take responsibility for their actions.
6. Expect and accept non-closure: This agreement recognizes that group interactions and social justice issues are complex and ongoing, and that it is okay to leave some questions or topics unresolved to continue the conversation or further research.
By adopting these Community Agreements, groups can create a more inclusive and equitable environment that promotes active participation, dialogue, and collaboration. These agreements can be used in a variety of contexts, from classroom discussions and workplace meetings to community events and social justice movements.
In summary, the National Equity Project Community Agreements offer a valuable framework for creating more equitable and just interactions. By embracing principles such as active listening, honesty, and willingness to change, groups can foster greater understanding, empathy, and collaboration, leading to positive social change.