Mutual Accountability Meeting
March 24, 2014
1.
A special meeting between Octopus Book Store ("Octopus") and No One Is
Illegal Ottawa (NOII-O) took place in Ottawa on March 24th, 2014, to
discuss issues of accountability and community-building. NOII-O and
Octopus reaffirmed their commitment to social justice and working with
community groups. The meeting addressed concerns on how to create
inclusive community spaces, and how to approach people, groups, and
establishments in regards to accountability.
2.
The meeting welcomed and generated lessons and recommendations for both
NOII-O and Octopus, such as collaborative anti-oppression training;
consultation on a statement of values; and having clear feedback
processes that prioritize accessible language, personal face-to-face
conversations, mental and emotional health, and community mediation
beyond legal systems and the State. There was also a broader discussion
about social media, specifically the challenges and opportunities it
creates in regards to communication, community-building,
confidentiality/privacy, and self-empowerment/autonomy.
3.
The meeting appreciated the contributions of everyone involved and
committed to working together in building spaces of justice,
anti-oppression, and inclusion. Octopus and NOII-O strongly encourage
any community groups and members to approach Lisa Greaves at Octopus to
engage with her in conversation in regards to any community concerns.
Lisa can be reached in the the store, at (613) 233-2589, or at octopus@octopusbooks.ca.
Lukayo from NOII-O can also be approached for a face-to-face
conversation regarding community concerns with NOII-O. Lukayo can be
reached at lukayo.estrella@gmail.com.
In Attendance:
Lukayo (Facilitator, NOII-Ottawa)
Karin (Facilitator, Octopus Books)
Lisa (Octopus Books)
Yafa (Octopus Books)
Daniel (NOII-Ottawa)
Catrina (NOII-Ottawa)
Shannon (NOII-Ottawa)
