No Two Community Calls Are Alike

TL;DR – Your friendly Community Platform Team started running open community calls, and the first one was excellent! These calls are open to everyone, and every call is different. Register here!

Our first community call was more than just another meeting – it was an exciting gathering within Amnesty International UK's (AIUK) activist community. From veteran activists to newcomers, each participant brought their unique experiences, perspectives, and challenges.

We got to know each other a little, and we talked about what keeps folks coming back to online spaces. One participant discussed accessibility needs in physical meetings and how they've found alternative solutions through online engagement. Another shared a bit about managing hidden disabilities and the importance of low-barrier entry into activist communities. A third talked about what it feels like to be in a space with like-minded people.

Talking about Privacy and Security

Safety was a recurring theme throughout our first call, and this theme will likely stay top of mind. We’re glad that one of the participants asked about AIUK's approach to protecting activists' digital security while another asked thoughtful questions about platform moderation policies. We need discussions centered around safety and security, so that we can collectively create processes and policies that serve to protect the most vulnerable as we stand up for all human rights.

We explored topics that attract online trolling and abuse, emphasized the importance of sharing successful strategies and acknowledged both the need for safe community spaces and the complexities involved in creating them. 

Building Stronger Connections

What makes these community calls so valuable is that they create space for dialogue about crucial issues like safety, moderation policies, and accessibility – all while building genuine connections amongst activists. It's this combination of productive discussions, sharing expertise and a supportive atmosphere that will hopefully keep people coming back for more.

We felt a genuine sense of belonging throughout our discussion. One participant noted they try out new online spaces not only for themselves but also considering others in their community, a note that perfectly encapsulates this spirit of inclusivity.

We made jokes, we spoke passionately about serious topics, we were ourselves. Several people mentioned the refreshing nature of the open work we’re doing with AIUK's community platform project. They mentioned that the call felt like a meaningful change and a real opportunity for co-creation. 

Looking Forward

As we look ahead to future community calls, one thing is clear: each call will be unique in its own way. We will have different groups of people and different topics to discuss. Our calls will be a place to think about changing needs and perspectives within our diverse activist community. What will remain constant is the commitment to creating spaces like these where everyone feels welcome, heard, and valued.

With this project blog, our research initiatives and our calls, we’re trying to open up this work to any and everyone who feels connected to Amnesty’s mission and issues. We are, all of us, working toward creating a dedicated online space where activists and educators can connect, collaborate on human rights campaigns, and drive impactful change through grassroots organizing.

Join a call or send us a note!