News

By Franchelle Parker

Open Buffalo has spent the last few months implementing our new strategic mission and vision. Our mission is to advance racial, economic and ecological justice for all. We are building a movement for all people experiencing systemic challenges and inequities, ensuring that they will have the skills and resources to be change-makers.

Movement work is really hard work! When you stumble, make a mistake or find yourself at odds with another person in the work — as you inevitably will — what will keep you going?

Open Buffalo’s work is rooted in love, accountability, forgiveness, collaboration, and healing. These principles inspire me to keep the course when times get tough. I root myself in these principles and I believe these principles to be the only way forward, not only for myself but Open buffalo as a whole.

I challenge you to take time and ask yourself, “What is my work rooted in?” Ask yourself the following questions:

·       “How can I personally become more resilient by getting clear on what my purpose is and why I do the work I do?”

·       “Do I understand my role as a change-maker?”

·       “What principles am I rooting my change-making in?”

·       “How do these principles make me a more resilient change-maker?”

·       “Do I have a friend or mentor who can support me in my journey?”

I know why the work is important, but I also know that I am important, and that the movement needs me. The movement desperately needs you too. Not just for a campaign, we need you for the long haul.

P.S.: Please join me in welcoming Open Buffalo’s newest board member, Dr. Marianne Partee!