Methodology
“For the master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house. They may allow us to temporarily beat him at his own game, but they will never enable us to bring about genuine change.”
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Audre Lorde
What is Systemic Liberation?
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Developed by Dr. Virginia Lacayo and Justin Foster, Systemic Liberation integrates systems thinking, Intersectional Leadership™, and the Indomable mindset™ to reimagine and rebuild systems that nurture equity, justice, and collective well-being. Rather than treating systemic oppression as a series of isolated problems, it embraces the complexity of living systems to uncover feedback loops, root causes, and paths toward sustainable change.Â
As the antidote to systemic oppression, Systemic Liberation begins from within. It empowers leaders, organizations, and communities to confront internal practices, power dynamics, and cultural norms before extending change outward.Â
Systemic Liberation Principles
Equity and Inclusion:
Systemic Liberation emphasizes creating systems that are inherently equitable and inclusive, addressing systemic barriers to promote belonging for all individuals.
Collective Intelligence:
It leverages the insights of diverse stakeholders, recognizing that complex challenges require collaborative approaches and multiple perspectives.
Transformation over Incrementalism:
The framework prioritizes transformative change over incremental adjustments, focusing on addressing root causes rather than symptoms.
Interdependence:
Liberation recognizes the interconnectedness of individuals and systems, calling for relationships of trust and mutual care.
Adaptive and Responsive Systems:
It promotes adaptability within systems, enabling them to respond effectively to evolving complexities.
Beginning Within:
Systemic Liberation is rooted in internal transformation. Organizations and communities must first address their internal practices and power dynamics to engage authentically with the wider world.
