Creating an open and equal space in the network
Adapted from discussions with Andrea Wright, Emma Meehan, Eugenia Kim, Rosa Cisneros, and Bernie Carter.
Listen – Respect – Reflect – Celebrate
We recognise the need to treat people equally and equitably, no matter what their background or circumstances. We acknowledge that some groups are visible and heard more often, while others have less access to opportunities and resources. We want to work together to ensure the network is a place where all can feel welcome, supported, respected, and heard. We encourage reflection on how power is shared, and believe difference should be celebrated.
As part of our network activities, we will:
- Create and review respectful guidelines for activities and projects
- Hold small discussion groups on how to improve the network
- Organise public activities that create space for these discussions
- Commit to addressing any changes that are needed in the network
Current network guidelines:
- Create space for multiple perspectives
- Listen respectfully to other people’s views
- Avoid assumptions or generalisations about particular groups
- Engage with care, compassion, and curiosity
- Notice any discomfort and, as needed, take time to reflect on this
- Use ‘I’ statements and speak from your own experience
- Apologise when mistakes are made
- Gently remind others if they accidentally slip up
A somatic approach:
- Listen to others with your ears, heart, and whole body
- Notice what is happening in your own body-mind:
- emotions (e.g. anger, fear, discomfort)
- sensations (e.g. tension, breathing, support, heart rate)
- thoughts (e.g. beliefs, expectations, biases)
- Take a breath before responding to challenging experiences
- Take moments to write, draw or move with experiences as needed
Thank you and we welcome your feedback.
A longer version of guidelines is available upon request. Text versions in Portuguese and Spanish are also available.
Please get in touch if you would like to offer a translation or adaptation.
Contact emma.meehan@coventry.ac.uk
