Our hearts ache as we witness the profound pain and injustice affecting our communities. Each headline and every personal story we hear underscores the urgent need for us to not only stand in solidarity but also to create tangible, actionable support systems. In these troubling times, our commitment to those suffering from systemic racism and oppression must translate into real, meaningful action.
As members of Co-Production Collective, we have been deeply moved and profoundly disturbed by the recent conversations with many of our community members—particularly those from Black and Brown communities and others who are grappling with fear and uncertainty about their safety caused by individuals and groups attempting to spread hate across the country. Their vulnerability in the face of ongoing systemic oppression is a stark reminder of the battles that still need to be fought for a society where everyone feels safe and valued in an equitable way.
Co-Production Collective stands resolutely against all forms of oppression and racism. We are not merely observers of these injustices; we are committed activists in the struggle for a fair and equitable society. Our mission is to create a safe and nurturing environment for everyone, especially in these challenging moments.
But standing against oppression is not enough. We must take concrete steps to ensure that our actions support those who need it most. Here’s how we can turn our solidarity into tangible support:
Reach Out and Check In: Make a personal effort to connect with your peers. A simple message or a quick text can make a significant difference. Check in to see how they’re doing, offer compassionate support, and acknowledge the difficulty of their situation. Let them know we are standing alongside them, ready to offer any help they might need.
Safe Transportation: Ensure that individuals from marginalized backgrounds have access to secure and reliable transportation. When possible, favour private hire vehicles or taxis over public transport, which may present additional risks at this time. Transportation should never be a barrier to safety.
Emergency Support: Appoint a dedicated contact person or find a suitable organisation who is available 24/7 to offer support and assistance. This individual should be prepared to provide immediate help or intervention when needed, ensuring that everyone has a reliable point of contact during emergencies.
Safety Briefings: Seek advice to be able to offer detailed safety briefings and resources to guide staff and co-producers through potential risks. This includes information on safe travel routes, local contacts, and emergency procedures. Knowledge is a powerful tool in ensuring safety. – If you seek advice from someone make sure they are trained appropriately.
Accommodation and Venue Safety: Rigorously vet all accommodation and event venues to ensure they are committed to non-discrimination and provide a welcoming and secure environment for everyone. No one should have to worry about their safety in spaces meant for gathering and growth.
Emotional Well-being: Acknowledge and address the emotional and psychological impact of these concerns. Regularly check in with individuals, provide ongoing well-being support, and make sure everyone feels valued and cared for. Emotional support is just as crucial as physical safety.
Create Safe Spaces for Solidarity: Establish dedicated forums or support groups where people affected can come together to share their experiences and discuss challenges in a way that works for them. These spaces should be led by and for the community, providing a platform for open dialogue and mutual support. By fostering environments where people can openly express their fears, share strategies for coping, and strengthen their collective voice, we empower each other and build resilience against systemic oppression. This includes setting up designated spaces for racialised individuals and other marginalized groups to provide a safe environment for people to come together and share their experiences and perspectives without fear of self-censorship or white fragility.
By taking these steps, we can reassure our staff and co-producers, ensuring their safety and peace of mind as they participate in our events and have a read of our Co-Production Collective Safeguarding Statement if you haven’t already. Our unity in action will not only help protect those in our immediate circles but will also serve as a beacon of hope and resilience against the injustices that pervade our society.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to this crucial matter. Together, let’s transform our solidarity into powerful, positive change.
Isaac and Samantha-Jane
With support from Niccola and the staff team at Co-Production Collective
