Philosophy

We understand organizing as the practice of bringing people together to transform ourselves, wield collective power, and build a just future. Within organizing, leadership is the responsibility to create the conditions for others to recognize their own power, contribute their gifts, and move together toward a shared purpose, especially in moments of uncertainty. 

Embodiment is the understanding of our body’s sensations, emotions and nervous system as the source of wisdom, connection and action. This is where our doing becomes. As we practice embodiment, we learn new skills to make decisions from our commitments rather than our learned behaviors. We hope participants are able to move from doing organizing to being an organizer. 

We recognize and honor the experiences, relationships, and organizing traditions participants

already bring with them. This program creates space for participants to learn from one another,

build new relationships across neighborhoods and movements, and deepen their connection to

a broader ecosystem of collective action across Boston.

Whether rooted in grassroots organizing, arts and cultural organizing, small business organizing,

mutual aid, labor organizing, or community leadership, SOLE will assist participants in expanding

their neighborhood-based organizing toolkit while staying grounded in their own strengths and

ways of working that build power in the places where we live, work, rest, play and gather.