Building solidarity in social change
What is solidarity in social change?
Solidarity in social change is a commitment to standing together in the face of inequities and working together to address them. It’s about how we pursue change as much as the outcome of change.
Our efforts to drive social change are more powerful when we work together. Bringing together diverse perspectives makes for better decisions, stronger communities and more transformative social change.
Some perspectives, particularly those gained through first-hand experience of inequity and injustice itself, are too often marginalised or excluded – both in wider society and in our work for social change.
At SMK, we know that some of the most powerful campaigns are driven be people with first-hand experience of the issues they are seeking to change. But the burden of driving change cannot sit solely on their shoulders. We need everyone – with all kinds of knowledge and expertise – working together.
Solidarity is not simply about including different voices in the status quo. It is a commitment to transforming ourselves and our relationships, and the processes and cultures that define our work for change, so we can truly stand and work together as equals, across difference.
That means understanding our own power, and using it consciously, to build deeper solidarity in social change.
Want to learn more about building solidarity in social change?
Thinking clearly about building solidarity
Tools and insights to help you think differently about power and build stronger, more equitable relationships in your work for social change.
Coming soon!
The Solidarity in Social Change programme
We work with Oak Foundation’s UK Housing and Homelessness Partners to help them centre the needs and aspirations of people with first-hand experience of housing inequalities in their strategies for change. This learning hub is password protected. Contact us for details here.
Training in lived experience, solidarity and social change
This participatory workshop will provide you with practical tools and approaches to thinking about power and working in deeper solidarity with people with first-hand experience in your social change work.
SMK’s commitment to solidarity and EDI
SMK is here for everyone who wants to make lasting social change. But we know that the interconnected systems of inequality that exist in society are replicated in organisations, like ours, that are trying to change them. Read our commitment to solidarity, equity, diversity and inclusion.
It’s All About Power
Barriers to solidarity are systemic. But change begins with each one of us thinking differently about our own power. Read our guide and take action for solidarity in social change.
Latest blogs and articles
Campaigning in solidarity: Evaluating what matters
Fourth and last blog in our series about campaigning in solidarity. How do we know our campaigns are making a difference? And who gets to decide that anyway? We spoke to our Learning Partner and participatory evaluation specialist, Sarah Rose, and to Gemma McCaughley...
Campaigning in solidarity: Stories for change
The third in our four-part series about campaigning in solidarity. Telling stories for change is a key issue for professional campaigners seeking to work meaningfully alongside people with first-hand experience. How do we communicate effectively, and how can we share...
Campaigning in Solidarity: Planning for Change
The second in a four-part blog series bringing together theory and practice to explore effective campaigning through a solidarity lens. First, we introduce a tool for planning strategic campaigns. Then, we hear how INQUEST combine their expertise with the diverse...
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