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a question on organizing strategy and mutual aid (hexbear.net)

submitted 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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I've noticed that mutual aid efforts in an org often focus on directing aid outside the organization, essentially operating as a charity. Additionally, many leftist orgs are quite small and could benefit from additional membership.

I'm wondering if it might be better for a mutual aid org to focus its aid efforts internally? It is mutual aid after all. Please understand, I recognize that helping one's community is worthwhile, but an org focusing aid internally materially benefits the self-interest of its members. If one sees material benefit to joining a group surely they're more likely to join?

Am I off base here? Seems like an idea worth developing.

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[–] [email protected] 8 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago)

The idea is implemented (as I’ve experienced it) in a way that tries to help people while encouraging them to help themselves. For instance feeding the homeless, but the patrons also help serve the food. Or maybe their situation improves, but they keep on coming down to help deliver the service.

…that being said I’ve definitely been involved with orgs that just d*generates (it’s a verb word filter relax) into “charity with a red flag”, spinning their wheels for years at a time with no real political program being implemented. It’s an easy trap to fall into.