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May 2020
Issue 14

Commons News

Welcome to everyone who is receiving the Commons newsletter for the first time! We've had a big increase in subscriptions and it's great to have you all here.

We're into another month of living in a pandemic - anyone else feel like time is simultaneously lagging and speeding along? Although some states in Australia are beginning to relax restrictions it's clear that 'business as usual' won't be back any time soon, if ever.

In addition to mutual aid groups springing up in many neighbourhoods, there's been growth in community organising and campaigning in relation to fair wage subsidies, working rights, housing, resisting racism and more. The economic, social and political shifts related to the pandemic will be felt for some time.

The Commons Librarians have been focused on resources around tactical innovation (see below) but we're also keen to equip you to push for social change on these emerging equity issues (as well as the same big problems that have been around for years!) If you have resources that others could benefit from please send them along.

The Commons' new project Reset Reading Group is off to a great start! Over 1000 folks have joined the conversation so far, following the fortnightly readings and participating in groups around the country. The first set of readings is now available - make sure to sign up to receive next fortnight's because this newsletter won't be back for a month. Let's Reset together!

Ideas for Action During Covid-19

It's inspiring to see the ways people are figuring out how to take action during physical distancing. For ideas check out these examples from Australia's progressive past, as well as more recent examples from around the world. Thanks to folks in the Activist Tactic Exchange Facebook group for bringing some of these to our attention.

Collect Action and Dissent Under COVID: Crowd Counting Consortium (led by Erica Chenoweth and Jeremy Pressman) are crowdsourcing methods of dissent and collective action during the COVID-19 pandemic. Submit methods and examples and view the full crowdsourced list. The Commons Library is already in there!

There's plenty more articles and resources relevant to campaigning during the pandemic under the Coronavirus/Covid-19 tag.

Activist inspiration and learning in lockdown

The COVID-19 pandemic is keeping many of us at home. Without the usual forums, film nights, and other campaign activities how can we connect to inspiration and continue learning?

Here are several resources from the Commons and beyond: Watch, Listen, Read and Learn! Includes 9 videos featuring social change thinkers from the RSA.

Reset 1 Readings

'Now more than ever, our people must be able to choose what happens on our country.'
Karrina Nolan from Original Power has curated the first set of Reset Reading Group discussion starters. Read Indigenous Principles for a Just Transition and check out the further resources including videos and podcasts.

Next fortnight: Disaster Capitalism & A People's Response.

Pandemic Podcasts

Let's face it, probably every podcast you could listen to is about Covid-19 at the moment! These podcasts have a particular focus on social movements and community organising. Start with the new podcast by Changemakers - This is a Big Moment.

Also from ChangeMakers, in conjunction with Tipping Point, check out the videos and notes from the Organising in a Pandemic series.

New to the Commons Social Change Library?

The Commons gathers the best social change resources from Australia and around the world. Browse the Library to find articles, manuals, training materials, videos, podcasts, case studies and much more on a wide range of topics.

The Commons is staffed by a small team of part-time librarians: Holly Hammond, Antje Dun and Iain McIntyre. We're a lean operation so donations are greatly appreciated and have a big impact.

If you need help tracking down a resource, or if you have something to add, reply to this email or use the contact form.

The Commons pays respects to the traditional owners of the land in which we operate and wherever this site is accessed. We recognise the central importance of struggles for Indigenous self-determination and justice within the broad project of creating a progressive future.

Image credits:
The Distance - Jess X Snow, Just Seeds
Not All Super Heroes Wear Capes - Antje Dun
This is A Big Moment - ChangeMakers
Commons & Reset Reading Group graphics - Antje Dun

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