Anti-Oppression Statement

Leading Change Network (LCN) is committed to building a world rooted in justice, equity, and collective liberation. We believe that the work of social change must actively challenge and dismantle all systems of oppression, all forms of discrimination, and structural state and interpersonal violence.

As an organization dedicated to empowering change leaders to win change, we recognize that oppression operates not only in the broader society but also within movements themselves. We are committed to creating spaces for learning, training, connection, and organizing that center the leadership of those most impacted by injustice. This means valuing lived experience, honoring diverse ways of knowing, resisting practices that reproduce harm or exclusion, and holding those who perpetuate harm accountable while enabling growth, introspection, and reconciliation. 

Our work is grounded in principles of equity and collective care. We strive to:

  • Confront Power and Privilege: Acknowledge and challenge how power and privilege show up in our work, trainings, relationships, and organizational structures.

     

  • Practice Accountability: Take responsibility when harm occurs, listen deeply, and engage in processes of repair and transformation.

     

  • Commit to Growth: Recognize that anti-oppression is an ongoing practice that requires reflection, education, and action at every level of our work—without placing this burden on those who have been harmed. 

We know that liberation is a collective act. We expect all who join us—staff, trainers, organizers, volunteers, participants, and community partners—to co-create spaces where dignity, solidarity, and justice are enacted and woven into how we work together and show up for each other. 

Accountability Process 

We understand that harm can occur even in spaces dedicated to justice. If you experience or witness a behavior that contradicts our commitment to anti-oppression, we encourage you to tell us. 

  • How to Raise a Concern: Concerns can be shared by emailing our Executive Director at [mais.irqsusi@leadingchangenetwork.org] or, if the issue concerns the Executive Director, by emailing the Chair of our Board of Directors at [andrew.crespo@leadingchangenetwork.org]. Please include details of the incident, including the type of violation that occurred, who was involved, what was said or done, and when and where it happened.

     

  • Response Process: All complaints will be reviewed promptly and handled with respect, care, and attention to your privacy. If you so request, we will make every effort to maintain the confidentiality of your concern, though in some cases this may impact our ability to learn more about or respond adequately to the issue. We will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within 7 days and outline the next steps.

     

  • Accountability Measures: Depending on the situation, responses may include facilitated dialogue, restorative practices, mediation, training, or other appropriate actions to address harm and prevent recurrence. All concerns are taken seriously. In some cases—such as allegations that require specialized expertise or independent review—we may escalate matters to the Board and/or engage an external investigator to help ensure a thorough and impartial process.

     

We commit to handling all concerns with transparency, fairness, and a focus on repair, ensuring that our work reflects the values of justice and dignity that we seek to advance.