What if accountability could be a way for us to show up for ourselves and each other? This question brings up ideas that may be far from what we are commonly taught. Many of us have been trained to equate accountability with crime and punishment–an approach enshrined in our systems of policing and prisons, which serve to uphold and reinforce white supremacy. As white folks organizing for racial justice, we’re interested in finding a new approach toward accountability, both for ourselves and our larger community.
When we try to practice accountability in ways that aren’t rooted in punishment culture, it can feel sticky and unfamiliar. How do we know that we’re being accountable to ourselves and each other? How do we know if we’re doing enough? When does accountability mean doing exactly what’s asked of us, and when should we be looking at asks more critically? These are tough questions.
A small group of SURJ NYC members has been asked to support all of us in addressing these (and other) questions together. Our goal is to build a culture of accountability, rather than developing a singular policy. We’re looking at accountability on the following levels:
Self
Between individuals within SURJ
Between groups within SURJ
With outside groups (e.g., accountability partners)
A set of principles/politics
We’ve planned a series of discussions to set a strong collective foundation for the work to come. The order will be as follows:
Self-Work: How can we be accountable to ourselves? How can self-accountability strengthen our relationships and our shared work? What self-work does each of us have to do to show up accountably? (Sunday, November 21, 12pm - 5pm including a 1 hour break) If this will be your first SURJ event, please join the next SURJ Orientation on 10/28.
Working With Words: What do we mean when we say accountability? What is accountability as opposed to responsibility, conflict, disagreement, harm, abuse, etc.? How can understanding these ideas help us practice accountability better? (Sunday, January 9, 2022, 12-5pm. Link to come!)
What We’re Doing Here: As we move into the next phase of this process, what feels important to tackle? What questions feel unanswered? What conversations do we need to have? What needs to be on our collective to-do list? (Sunday, February 20, 2022, 12-5pm. Link to come!)
Whether you’re new to SURJ or have been involved for years, WE NEED YOU THERE! We look forward to seeing you in November as we get the conversation started.
In solidarity and gratitude,
SURJ NYC