Since Trump’s second inauguration just days ago, we’ve seen a flurry of executive orders and actions by the new administration with the aim of sowing intimidation and fear among the most marginalized communities in the US. We face immense challenges and threats, from the climate crisis to increasing criminalization and surveillance.

At this uncertain moment in history, it is clearer than ever that communities must rely on each other to survive and thrive. One critical way to do that: mutual aid.

Mutual aid is a tool to build community and meet basic needs while developing a shared political understanding. That’s why Shareable is launching a four-week Mutual Aid 101 Learning Series.

The sessions are open to all, but is designed for those just getting started to learn from seasoned mutual aid organizers and activists. All sessions will happen over Zoom with Spanish interpretation and captions. Feel free to sign up for all sessions or just one.

And while this learning series will be run by organizers in the US, all are welcome to attend. A better world is not only possible, it is being created in our communities! We hope to see you at our Mutual Aid 101 Learning Series. Below is a look at the four sessions, including more details and registration info.

Schedule

Wednesday, Feb 19, 2025 – Session 1: Intro to Mutual Aid [Register]

• Mutual aid vs. charity
• Historical and contemporary examples
• Core values and principles

Presenter: Dean Spade, author of  “Mutual Aid Building Solidarity During This Crisis (and the Next)”

Wednesday, Feb 26, 2025 – Session 2: Building and Sustaining [Register]

• Getting started
• Consensus decision-making
• Sustaining engagement and avoiding burnout

Presenters: Stephanie Rearick, Humans United in Mutual Aid Networks, and Julian Rose, New Economy Coalition & Endstate ATL

Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 – Session 3: Legal, Financial, and Security Basics [Register]

• Benefits and limitations of formal structures
• Understanding risk and safety protocols
• Financial basics and managing a mutual aid fund
• Fintech for Mutual Aid

Presenters: Erika Sato, Sustainable Economies Law Center, Elijah Baucom, Everyday Security & UC Berkeley Cybersecurity Clinic, Sarah Philips, Fight for the Future 

Wednesday, Mar 12, 2025 – Session 4: Mutual Aid in Action [Register]

5-minute Rad Talks with breakout rooms for each topic:

• Disaster relief
• Immigration support
• Mutual Aid Funds (Cash/emergency needs)
• Reproductive justice
• Gender justice

Presenters: Mutual Aid Eastie, Metro Atlanta Mutual Aid Fund, Mutual Aid Disaster Relief, Mississippi Reproductive Freedom Fund, and Vicky Osterweil.