The Arkenstones*:
My Principles

Equity:
Recognizing that we live within systems of oppression, and working to respond to structural oppressions in strategic ways that minimize inequalities on a larger path to building justice.

Diversity:
Difference is our strength

Inclusion & Belonging:
Everyone has a role and a place

Accessibility & Disability Justice:
"Born [from the organizing of] queer disabled women of colour....It insists that our worth is inherent and tied to the liberation of all beings".

Intersectionality:
"Intersectionality is a lens through which you can see where power comes and collides, where it interlocks and intersects. It’s not simply that there’s a race problem here, a gender problem here, and a class or LBGTQ problem there. Many times that framework erases what happens to people who are subject to all of these things." -Kimberlé Crenshaw

Anti-Oppression:
Started by women of colour organizers. I seek to align myself and my work in direct opposition to oppression.

Solidarity:
Working in solidarity with communities that are already doing the real work.

Braver, Safer Spaces:
Holding space for our contradictions, learning how to be safer to others; sharing imperfect spaces with imperfect people.

Body Positivity & Body Liberation:
All bodies are good bodies.

Consent:
Centering consent in physical and emotional interactions, privacy, and throughout relationships

Trauma-Informed:
Honouring the lived experiences of community members and creating meaningful engagement that feels good.

Accountability & Calling In:
Holding each other accountable through naming harm and invitations to do better while remaining anchored in community.

Community-Based:
Process over product. Relationships over results.

All Feelings Welcome:
All feelings are valid! Our feelings tell us important things and I work to honour that knowledge in my work.

*In J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit", the Arkenstone, also called "the King's Jewel" was a gem and family heirloom in the Line of Durin, and sought after by Thorin Oakenshield