Hello Internet Friends,

The Rhizome Collective is regrouping and we are seeking not-for-profit groups who would be interested in being part of a space for community organizing. We aim to house these organizations and their operations in a new space in order to foster cross-pollination of ideas and the involvement of people doing good things. The Rhizome Collective operated such a space at 300 Allen St. for 9 years until spring 2009. We recently sold the grove field to Ecology Action to raise money for a new space and are seeking groups who would be interested in joining us.

So on May 9th at 7pm there will be a meeting of groups interested reforming the Rhizome Collective!  This will be an informational session led by the current members of the Rhizome Collective where participants will learn a brief history of the Rhizome, what we have been up to lately, and how/why this might involve you.  After this short presentation, we will introduce ourselves, the organizations we are part of, and open a discussion.  There will be snacks!

This is the provisional mission statement and points that should unite all organizations interested in working together in this space. Please RSVP by Wednesday, May 4 and don't hesitate to email back with any questions!

Mission Statement: To horizontally operate a nurturing, open and diverse space for groups working for fundamental change.

Points of Unity

1.  Sustainability – Balancing the needs of society, the environment, and the economy by taking care of the needs of today without compromising the needs of tomorrow.

2.  Solidarity – Working towards a relationship of mutual aid that implies giving & receiving, acknowledging that everyone has something to give. In our case, there is special emphasis toward creating solidarity with long term historical residents of the neighborhood.

3.  Accountability – Having the focus, flexibility, and commitment necessary to accomplish measurable goals transparently.

4.  Anti-oppression – We are against the use of power, both from ourselves or from others, to coerce someone to do something.

5.  Power sharing – Members participate in meaningful ways in decisions that affect them

If you or your group is interested in getting involved, please contact us at office@rhizomecollective.org

Thank you!

The Rhizome Collective