The Introduction to Community Organizing Toolkit was created in response to the noticeable lack of resources available for those who feel called to action, but are not sure of where or how to get started. By unpacking a variety of justice-based topics in digestible ways, this project seeks to resist the elitism and gatekeeping of knowledge found within organizing spaces, all the while amplifying the voices of marginalized youth in so-called Canada. It begins with a glossary of commonly used terms, which is then followed by a primer on movement theory that explains what systems of oppression are, highlights the importance of intersectionality, and provides an outline for building effective campaigns. The next portion is dedicated to challenging ableism; it includes reflection prompts for accessibility, ways to show solidarity, and a guide to setting boundaries. Section four covers the basics of care work and transformative justice by delving into how harm can be replicated and repaired. The toolkit ends with a wonderful collection of resources for further learning and growth.
This toolkit was created by our community member Michelle Xie. Michelle Xie (she/her) is a community organizer, sociology student, and artist of Chinese heritage, who was born and raised on the stolen homelands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples. She is passionate about building anti-oppressive movements that are abundant in care, creativity, and interdependence. As a facilitator with the UBC Climate Hub and organizer with Climate Justice UBC, Michelle strives to shift power into the hands of the people and support youth in becoming agents of change in their communities.
Learn more about Michelle’s work:
Instagram | Justice-Based Anthology Project | Community Calendar