Breaking down systemic inequity depends on shifting power and agency to those directly impacted. Core to this shift are relationships and trust. The Outdoor Equity Fund embodies these principles, aiming to improve equitable access to outdoor spaces for BIPOC folks. This conversation with the leaders of the Outdoor Equity Fund, Julian Rowand of Maine Initiatives and Archana Palaniappan of the Nature Based Education Consortium, will address the evolution, process, and values that have been integral to its development and role in broader systems change efforts.
The primary goal of this workshop is to uplift and highlight the power and pace of trust, and the importance of building strong personal relationships in catalyzing lasting systems change. As the Outdoor Equity Fund and its participatory process are part of larger efforts to transform inequitable systems, we will dive into the “why” and the “how” of centering relationships and trust. We will explore how centering relationships in process leads to an outcome that is more equitable and meaningful.
Participants will learn about:
- Why prioritizing process is an urgent need for systems change work
- The power of trust and the flexibility in process, expectation and outcome that it requires
- The importance of centering impacted communities in design, decision making, and implementation
- The sustainability that a strong network of relationships can offer
If the cost of this program would be prohibitive to participation, you can become a member for free using the code MEMBER100 in the Nonprofit Membership Form or reach out to us at mpc@mainephilanthropy.org.