Understanding systems of power

Whether or not we are conscious of it, even our mundane behaviors and actions are greatly influenced by systems of power. And power dynamics–often rooted in social and cultural divisions–affect our relationships on the personal, communal, and societal levels. In this part of the field guide, we dissect these systems of power, their history, dynamics, and continuing effects.

CONCEPTS

+Understanding power

Whether or not we are conscious of it, even our mundane behaviors and actions are greatly influenced by systems of power. How do we define power? What does it look like in action? What seen and unseen power dynamics affect our daily lives?

+Power mapping and analysis

Use power mapping and analysis to understand how–and by whom–power is exercised to maintain the conditions we seek to change.

+Social justice learning resources

Work toward creating a fair and equal society where each individual matters, their rights are recognized and protected, and decisions are made that are fair and honest.

+Restorative justice

Using just and appropriate responses, we can repair the harm caused to people, relationships and communities because of criminal actions.

+Trainings for understanding power

Martin Luther King, Jr., defined power as the ability to achieve purpose. Each of these trainings offer teams important tools for understanding how to build and organize power for systems change.

SWITCH PATHWAYS

Pathway 1 | Preparing for Change

Pathway 2 | Awareness: Aligning Intention and Action

Pathway 3 | Analysis: Power

Pathway 4 | Action: Working on Structures

Pathway 5 | Action: Improving Team Health

Pathway 6 | Accountability: Testing Ideas

Pathway 7 | UWC Resources

GROW COMMUNITY

Giving thanks: We share these resources in gratitude to all of our teachers and with appreciation for the value they have brought us. The field guide is a living resource that we are consistently adding to. We receive no payment or kickbacks for sharing. Access and use of these resources should be done at one’s own discretion. If you see a resource you like, we encourage you to reach out to the author.

Have a resource to add? We are always looking to expand the resources we can share. If you have a tool/resource/link you would like to share with UWC and its partners, please email us: research@upwithcommunity.org.