A few days ago, I had the privilege of attending the Wild Times Gathering, professionally and beautifully organised by Social Change Nest.
Described by Social Change Nest as a gathering “for the brave, the
frustrated, the grieving, and the hopeful”, it was an incredibly inclusive,
diverse and multifaceted space; one that brought people together not only to
share ideas, but also to connect, reflect, recharge and imagine what might be
possible when we organise collectively and intentionally.
When I signed up for the gathering, I imagined an opportunity to
meet like-minded people, build relationships and explore possibilities for
working together. As someone who is passionate about community organising,
collective action and creating meaningful relational opportunities, I expected
a space for sharing stories, strategizing and taking stock of where we are and
where we might go next.
As the event drew closer and the agenda and details of the
Gathering were shared, it became increasingly clear that this was going to be
much more than that. It was a space to learn and share; to charge and
recharge; and to reimagine our organising and campaigning work together.
In many ways, the Gathering brought Heads, Hearts and Hands
together. It encouraged us to think beyond familiar approaches, push
boundaries, look outside the boxes we sometimes put ourselves in, and consider
what might happen when we work with the unusual suspects.
From the very beginning, there was a palpable sense of energy and
enthusiasm. People came ready to listen, share, connect and embark on a journey
together. The stories shared throughout the Gathering were powerful, enriching
and, at times, challenging. These stories remind us that meaningful change
often begins with listening to experiences that we may not otherwise hear.
When someone shares a story, we have a choice. We may act or in-act.
At times we pause and reflect. We also take time to process what we have heard
and return with ideas and plans for action. But powerful stories rarely leave
us exactly where they found us.
One story that particularly stayed with me came from a gentleman
who spoke candidly about the personal cost of campaigning and standing up for
what he believed in. He shared:
“Over the past 10 years or so, I have lost many good friends
because of my views and campaign work. Some of the friends who are no longer
with me were my friends for decades. Stories like mine are not often shared,
but these stories are there across the country. People leave networks and
friendships because of their actions.”
His words have stayed with me.
They are a reminder that behind campaigns, movements and calls for
social change are real people, real relationships and sometimes very real
personal costs. They also remind us that we are not alone in navigating the
challenges that come with organising for a more just society.
As we live through increasingly challenging times, it is more
important than ever to come together; to listen to one another, express
solidarity, build relationships and find meaningful ways to act collectively.
Our collaboration and togetherness are no longer optional; they
are a necessity. As the saying goes: together, we are better.
A huge thank you and kudos to everyone who shared their
perspectives, facilitated sessions, told their stories and contributed to
making the Wild Times Gathering such a meaningful experience.
And a special thank you to Social Change Nest for creating
and holding this space, and to the Quakers in Britain for hosting this
gathering.
We need more gatherings like this; spaces where we can be brave
enough to listen, generous enough to learn, courageous enough to reimagine, and
connected enough to act together.
We need more of this!
