LANDBACK means centering the voices and leadership of Indigenous peoples in our movements and spaces. It is a political framework that allows us to deepen our relationships across the field of organizing movements working towards true collective liberation. It allows us to envision a world where Black, Indigenous & POC liberation co-exists. It is our political, organizing and narrative framework from which we do the work.

HER recognizes the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization and systemic oppression on Indigenous peoples and their lands. We also acknowledge the diversity of Indigenous experiences and prioritize the needs and perspectives of those who have been most impacted by colonization, assimilation and dispossession. 

HER prioritizes the return of land to Indigenous peoples and the restoration of Indigenous sovereignty over their lands, waters, and resources. We recognize that the return of land is just one step towards decolonization and the dismantling of systemic oppression. Land back focuses on the recognition and protection of Indigenous rights and the revitalization of Indigenous cultures and languages.

HER is in allyship and solidarity with Indigenous peoples and their communities. We recognize our role as non-Indigenous peoples in the ongoing colonization and oppression of Indigenous peoples and work towards the active dismantling of these systems of oppression.

HER prioritizes the recognition and rejection of white supremacy and other forms of oppression that intersect with and reinforce the oppression of Indigenous peoples.

LAND BACK! FREE PALESTINE!

Appropriation occurs when dominant groups in society co-opt or claim the ideas, symbols, and practices of marginalized groups in order to further their own interests. This can be seen as a form of oppression, as it serves to silence and undermine the voices and experiences of marginalized groups. There are several ways in which an anti-oppression framework can be built to address appropriation of and within liberation movements. First, it is important to recognize that dominant groups have historically benefited from systems of power and privilege, and have been able to oppress marginalized groups. This means that dominant groups have a responsibility to actively work to dismantle these systems of oppression and to support the liberation of marginalized groups.

1. Acknowledge the power dynamics: Recognize that cultural appropriation is rooted in power imbalances that have historically marginalized and oppressed certain groups. It is important to acknowledge the power dynamics at play and the harm caused by appropriating cultural practices and symbols. 

2. Listen to marginalized communities: Listen to the voices of those who have been historically marginalized and oppressed by cultural appropriation. Center their experiences and perspectives in the conversation and seek their input and guidance on how to address appropriation. 

3. Educate yourself: Educate yourself on the history and cultural significance of the practices and symbols you are considering appropriating. Take the time to understand the context and meaning behind these cultural elements and how they have been used and misused in the past. 

4. Practice cultural humility: Approach cultural practices and symbols with humility and respect. Recognize that you may not fully understand the cultural significance of these elements and that you may need to defer to the expertise of those from the culture in question. 

5. Do not profit from appropriation: Avoid profiting from the appropriation of cultural practices and symbols. This includes refraining from selling products or services that are based on cultural elements that do not belong to you. 

6. Be accountable: If you are called out for appropriating cultural practices or symbols, take responsibility for your actions and make amends. This may involve apologizing, educating yourself further, and taking steps to ensure that you do not repeat the same mistake in the future. 

7. Actively work against oppression: Finally, actively work against oppression in all its forms. Recognize that cultural appropriation is just one manifestation of larger systems of oppression, and work to dismantle these systems in your personal and professional life.

In politics systemic oppression is the ingrained mistreatment of certain social groups through harmful policies, practices, and cultural norms embedded in a society's institutions (like government, education, health, and economy) and reinforced over time, creating disadvantages for marginalized groups while benefiting the white dominant narrative, often without overt intent. It's more than individual prejudice; it's about how systems privilege some identities (race, gender, ability, etc.) and create barriers for others, leading to unequal access to resources, power, and opportunities.

TRANSPHOBIA

Our Commitment to Anti-Oppression in regards to Transphobia: It is important to commit to anti-oppression and to actively work against transphobia. This includes being aware of one's own privilege and using it to advocate for and support trans people. It also includes being willing to challenge transphobic attitudes and behaviors when they arise.

1. Education and Awareness: Providing education and awareness on transphobia, including its impact on individuals and communities, and promoting understanding and acceptance of diverse gender identities and expressions.

2. Intersectionality: Recognizing that transphobia intersects with other forms of oppression, such as racism, ableism, and classism, and addressing these intersections in anti-oppression efforts.

3. Allyship and Solidarity: Encouraging allyship and solidarity among individuals and communities to support trans people and challenge transphobia.

4. Advocacy and Activism: Supporting advocacy and activism efforts to promote trans rights and challenge transphobia at the individual, institutional, and societal levels.

5. Inclusion and Accessibility: Ensuring that trans people are included and represented in all aspects of society, and that access to resources and services is equitable and accessible to all.

6. Accountability and Responsibility: Holding individuals, institutions, and Organizations accountable for how they uphold transphobic ideologies in their organizations and make them responsible to create necessary change.

7. Commitment to Anti-Oppression: It is important to commit to anti-oppression and to actively work against transphobia. This includes being aware of one's own privilege and using it to advocate for and support trans people. It also includes being willing to challenge transphobic attitudes and behaviours when they arise.

8. Education and Awareness: It is important to educate oneself and others about transphobia and the experiences of trans people. This includes learning about the history of transphobia, the current state

What is a TERF? TERF stands for "Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist". It refers to a person, usually a feminist, who excludes transgender women from their definition of "womanhood" and often denies their gender identity. TERFs believe that biological sex is the only determinant of gender and that transgender women are not "real" women. This ideology is considered by many to be harmful and discriminatory towards transgender individuals.

https://transstudent.org/gender/

HOMOPHOBIA

An anti-oppression framework around homophobia would involve recognizing and challenging the systemic discrimination, prejudice, and violence that LGBTQ+ individuals face in society. This framework would prioritize listening to and centering the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, and working towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

Some key elements of an anti-oppression framework around homophobia might include:

1. Understanding the intersectionality of LGBTQ+ identities: Recognizing that LGBTQ+ individuals may also face discrimination and oppression based on their race, ethnicity, religion, ability, socioeconomic status, and other identities.

2. Challenging heteronormativity: Questioning and challenging the assumption that heterosexuality is the norm and that LGBTQ+ identities are abnormal or deviant.

3. Addressing systemic discrimination: Working to dismantle laws, policies, and practices that discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals, such as employment discrimination, housing discrimination, and restrictions on marriage and adoption.

4. Supporting LGBTQ+ communities: Prioritizing the needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities, and providing resources and support to address the unique challenges they face.

5. Educating others: Raising awareness about the harmful effects of homophobia and the importance of creating a more inclusive society, and promoting allyship and solidarity with LGBTQ+ communities.

Overall, an anti-oppression framework around homophobia would involve recognizing and challenging the ways in which LGBTQ+ individuals are marginalized and oppressed, and working towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.

ANTI-RACIST

“It's not enough to not be racist, we must be Anti-Racist”

The statement "It's not enough to not be racist, we must be anti-racist" means that simply not engaging in racist behaviour or holding racist beliefs is not sufficient to combat racism. In order to truly fight against racism, we must actively work to dismantle systemic racism and actively promote equality and justice for marginalized groups. Being anti-racist means taking action to challenge and change the structures and systems that perpetuate racism, rather than simply avoiding racist behaviour or attitudes.

An anti-oppression framework for racism should be based on the following principles:

1. Acknowledge the existence and impact of racism: Recognize that racism is a systemic and pervasive problem that affects individuals and communities in various ways.

2. Center the voices and experiences of people of color: Ensure that the experiences and perspectives of people of color are centered in all discussions and decisions related to racism.

3. Address power imbalances: Recognize that racism is rooted in power imbalances and work to dismantle those imbalances through equitable policies and practices.

4. Foster accountability and responsibility: Hold individuals and institutions accountable for their actions and ensure that they take responsibility for addressing and remedying the harms caused by racism.

5. Commit to ongoing learning and growth: Recognize that anti-racism work is a lifelong process and commit to ongoing education, reflection, and growth.

6. Build coalitions and alliances: Work collaboratively with other individuals and organizations to build coalitions and alliances that can effectively address racism.

7. Take action: Actively work to dismantle racism through concrete actions, such as advocating for policy changes, supporting anti-racism initiatives, and engaging in community organizing and activism.

Anti-Indigenous racism is a form of racism that specifically targets Indigenous peoples. It can take many forms, including discrimination, stereotyping, and prejudice. Anti-Indigenous racism can be expressed through individual actions, such as verbal or physical attacks, or through systemic practices, such as unequal access to education or employment. It is often rooted in historical and cultural biases against Indigenous peoples and can have a significant impact on their lives and communities. Anti-Indigenous racism is a complex and deeply rooted issue that requires ongoing work to address and overcome.

ANTI-BLACK RACISM

Anti-Black racism refers to discrimination and oppression that is specifically directed at Black people. It is a form of racism that is rooted in white supremacy and has been used to justify the mistreatment and marginalization of Black people throughout history. Anti-Black racism is a complex and systemic issue that is deeply ingrained in our society and has had a significant impact on the lives of Black people. It is characterized by discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, education, and the criminal justice system, and it often results in the denial of basic rights and opportunities to Black people. Anti-Black racism is a form of oppression that has been used to justify the mistreatment and marginalization of Black people throughout history. It is a complex and systemic issue that has had a significant impact on the lives of Black people. description

An anti-oppression framework around classism involves recognizing and addressing the systemic and institutionalized biases and discrimination that exist based on socioeconomic status.

1. Acknowledge the existence of classism and its impact on individuals and communities.

2. Educate yourself and others about the history and current manifestations of classism, including its intersections with other forms of oppression such as racism, sexism, and ableism.

3. Center the experiences and voices of those most impacted by classism, including low-income people and communities.

4. Advocate for policies and practices that promote economic justice, such as progressive taxation, living wages, affordable housing, and access to healthcare and education.

5. Challenge stereotypes and stigmatizing language that perpetuate classism.

6. Work to dismantle class-based power structures and promote equity and inclusion.

7. Practice solidarity with other movements fighting against oppression and inequality.

8. Hold individuals and institutions accountable for perpetuating classism and work towards reparations for those harmed by it.

9. Continuously reflect on your own biases and privilege, and actively work to address them.

10. Finally, recognize that anti-classism work is ongoing and requires a sustained commitment to creating a more just and equitable society.cription

An anti-oppression framework around sexism involves identifying and addressing the ways in which sexism operates within society, institutions, and individuals, and working towards creating a more equitable and just society. This includes:

1. Recognizing the intersectionality of sexism with other forms of oppression, such as racism, ableism, homophobia, and transphobia.

2. Challenging and dismantling gender stereotypes and gender roles that reinforce sexism and limit individuals' opportunities and choices.

3. Creating safe spaces for individuals who experience sexism to voice their experiences and concerns, and providing support and resources to address the harm caused by sexism.

4. Promoting education and awareness about sexism and its impact, and advocating for policies and practices that promote gender equity and equality.

5. Holding individuals and institutions accountable for their actions and policies that perpetuate sexism, and working towards systemic change to address and prevent sexism.

1. Intersectionality: Recognizing that individuals experience oppression in different ways based on their intersecting identities (e.g. race, gender, sexuality, ability, etc.), and that these intersections must be taken into account when addressing sexual and gender-based violence.

2. Centering Survivors: Prioritizing the needs and experiences of survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, and ensuring that their voices are heard and their autonomy is respected throughout the process of addressing and preventing such violence.

3. Accountability: Holding perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence accountable for their actions, and creating systems of justice that are survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive.

4. Prevention: Addressing the root causes of sexual and gender-based violence, such as patriarchy, misogyny, and other forms of oppression, and working to create a culture of consent, respect, and equality.

5. Cultural Competence: Ensuring that all individuals involved in addressing sexual and gender-based violence have a deep understanding of the cultural, social, and historical factors that contribute to such violence, and are able to work effectively with survivors from diverse backgrounds.

6. Community Engagement: Building partnerships with community organizations, activists, and other stakeholders to create a comprehensive response to sexual and gender-based violence that is grounded in the needs and experiences of the community

1. Recognizing ableism as a form of oppression that marginalizes and discriminates against people with disabilities. 

2. Acknowledging the intersectionality of disability with other forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, and classism. 

3. Centering the experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities in all discussions and decisions related to accessibility and inclusion. 

4. Challenging ableist attitudes and behaviors, including stereotypes, assumptions, and discrimination. 

5. Promoting accessibility as a fundamental human right and a social responsibility. 

6. Developing and implementing policies and practices that address the barriers to accessibility and inclusion, such as physical, communication, and attitudinal barriers. 

7. Providing accommodations and support to ensure equal access and participation for people with disabilities in all aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, transportation, and social activities. 

8. Engaging in ongoing education and training to increase awareness and understanding of ableism, accessibility, and disability rights. 

9. Building alliances and coalitions with other social justice movements to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. 

10. Empowering people with disabilities to become leaders and advocates for their own rights and the rights of others.

Is the philosophy and science that seeks to minimize the negative consequences of certain behaviors or actions, without  requiring complete abstinence from those behaviors or actions. Harm reduction is in the context of substance use, but can also be applied to other areas such as sexual health or mental health. The goal is to reduce harm to individuals and communities, while recognizing that complete elimination of risky behaviors may not be feasible or desirable for everyone.

Sex work refers to the consensual exchange of sexual services for money or other benefits.

Sex workers are working people that have the right to a safe working environment, fair pay, access to justice just like every other worker person. Sex Workers have the rights to live our lives with dignity in society without being criminalised The current law prohibits sex between adults on private property and forces sex works into unsafe environments for both themselves and clients; this has led to increased violence against women Criminalising clients further stigmatises those who purchase sexual services as well as sex workers The decriminalisation of all aspects of consensual sex work (including pimping) & would protect the most vulnerable by encouraging them to come forward to report abuse or exploitation. It is to destigmatize SW so people engaging in this work feel more comfortable coming out if they do need help from authorities. sex workers should and must be treated like any other working person.