The worrying leaning of world politics towards the far-right threatens to concentrate more power and resources in the hands of a very small, incomprehensibly rich minority. The negative consequences are already tangible. They disproportionately affect those who live paycheck-to-paycheck, and those whose circumstances make them vulnerable.
Just a few weeks ago, there was a xenophobic incident in the area where I live. A hotel that hosts asylum seekers was surrounded by an aggressive crowd that hurled abuse and shouted at them to go back to their places of origin. Leaving one’s home and life behind due to the threat of violence is traumatic enough. The asylum seekers should be helped, not attacked! I reached out to the city council and my MP to tell them about the incident, and got their opinion. However, to effect real change, we need many, many voices.
The Ella Baker School of Organising knows the importance of community. For this reason, they are taking steps to connect with people all across the UK and give them tools to —as their name suggests— organise and react quickly to the constantly evolving political situation. They aim to help everybody develop leadership and critical thinking skills, make them know their rights and how to interact with authority based on them, and ultimately, change our perception of society.
To achieve their goal, the School is determined to train hundreds of volunteer trainers within the next 12 months. These trainers will be able to teach the material developed by the School, and convene local discussions about how to react, in their communities, to both threats and opportunities.
Since the 1 June, this training has reached over 500 people directly. As all their materials are open-sourced, and the School encourages people to download, adapt and deliver them in their own communities, their reach is possibly way greater. This also means that there is a bigger demand for resources, and more financial pressure.
The Ella Baker School of Organising does a lot to pay for their expenses, but they need support. The easiest way to donate is online, you can do it clicking here. To avoid handling fees, however, it is better to set up a donation via online or telephone banking. This is their account information:
Name: Ella Baker School of Organising
Sort Code: 60-20-32
Account number: 42218217
The political situation is daunting, and it can feel like a lost cause already. However, the far-right still has a long way before it can seize absolute power. This means that we have the opportunity and duty to oppose them. Donate, get involved, speak up. Never let go of your empathy and your heart. We can do this together!
