Permaculture is a system of ecological design that works with the patterns of nature to meet human needs while regenerating the environment around us. It’s also a worldwide social movement—one that is very diverse in every way, including politically! I helped to craft this statement, and over 4000 permaculture groups and individuals have signed it. See them here.
A Statement of Response from the USA Permaculture Community to the Emerging Political Crisis
In this time of deep uncertainty, democratic institutions and processes—though flawed and in need of reform—are under assault. Racism, sexism, ableism, heterosexism, xenophobia and other forms of discrimination fuel authoritarianism, environmental destruction, and economic instability in the U.S. and around the world. Yet we know, at our core, that another way is possible, and we are profoundly committed to building an alternative.
Permaculture is rooted in ethics: care for the earth, care for people, and fair share of surpluses for all, including future generations, and concerns itself with the stewardship of land, people, relationships, and systems of care. As an ethical design system, Permaculture is informed and inspired by Indigenous knowledge, nature-based patterns, best scientific practices, and holistic care. We are trained to solve problems of every sort, and are committed to meeting real human needs. Permaculture flourishes by cooperation, works through education and the sharing of knowledge, celebrates diversity, and seeks to build health, justice, and harmony.
As practitioners, teachers, and leaders we affirm that the permaculture community stands for social and environmental justice, resilience, and regeneration.
This moment demands that we counter fear, chaos, and despair with bold, regenerative actions to support life, equity, and healing across differences that have divided our societies. Diversity is a source of strength. Equity is a requirement for peace, justice, and a tolerable society. Inclusion is the only way forward on a small planet. We join in solidarity with others who share these values, and we will not comply with illegal, immoral, or harmful actions that divide us from one another.
We acknowledge diverse opinions and different political identifications exist within the permaculture movement about how to apply these ethics. Divergent views may lead some to very different political affiliations. For the signers of this statement, permaculture ethics embody a commitment to social justice. We call on everyone under the permaculture umbrella to hold solidarity with one another and with vulnerable communities, and to lift up the ethical solutions for the world’s problems that permaculture has demonstrated.
Our work has shown that education and solidarity to solve common problems are more powerful than division and blame. Join us in protecting the health and safety of all beings.
We invite you to sign onto this statement as individuals or groups.
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This post has been syndicated from Starhawk’s Substack, where it was published under this address.