Not Your Algorithm's Gift Guide
6 Ideas for Disrupting The Capitalist-Fueled Holiday Buying Frenzy
Before we begin, we want to name the fact that capitalism is all-encompassing, and we are all complicit in the system. While we are continuing to dream of what a world free from capitalism would mean for our schools, families, selves, communities, and world, we acknowledge that these suggestions are mere ways to disrupt not dismantle the system.
1
Give an Experience &
Make a Memory
We all know that memories last much longer than another pair of mass produced gloves or a toxin-filled candle, so this year, our top way to disrupt the system is to CREATE MEMORIES with those you love.
3
Share Knowledge
We have all been conditioned to believe that physical things are the only types of gifts; however, for centuries knowledge--both communal and individual--has been held as a sacred gift.
5
Make a Donation
Support local organizations that your loved one cares about and allow them to expand their impact. Here are some of the organizations that we are giving to this year.
Anti-Racist Programs for Youth
Yes, we donate to ourselves since our youth-facing free programming is currently unfunded.
You can hear directly from participants in our 12-week program for youth formerly in foster care HERE.
Help us expand our 12-week training to reach more of the most marginalized young people in our country.
Land Back/Real Rent
Our team members have been making contributions to the indigenous communities whose land we currently live on (check out the Sogorea Te’ Land Trust’s Rematriation Guide to learn why this is so important).
Our staff in the Pacific Northwest have been paying Real Rent through Real Rent Duwamish. Here in Jersey, we support Native American Heritage Programs (be sure to also check out their children’s book When the Shadbush Blooms).
Jericho Project
Ending homelessness by providing housing, mental/physical health supports, and employment.
Black Alliance for Peace
A People(s)-Centered Human Rights Project Against War, Repression and Imperialism.
Abolitionist Teaching Network
Developing and supporting those in the struggle for educational liberation. Founded by Dr. Bettina Love.
Black and Pink
Abolishing the criminal punishment system & liberating LGBTQIA2S+ people & those living with HIV/AIDS who are affected by it.
LiberatED
A social and emotional learning approach to racial justice and healing. A movement. A collective. A path towards liberation. Founded by Dr. Dena Simmons.
6
Become a Conscientious Shopper
If you still have a few folx on your list who will be looking to unwrap something, use your values to guide your purchases.
**It feels SUPER important to note that we do not receive any commission from these links. We are not over here trying to make money off the genius and talent of these folx and organizations! We are just huge fans!**
Blankets from Eighth Generation
These gorgeous blankets are made by community based native artists.
Apostrophe Puzzles
Check out these beautiful, vibrant puzzles created by artists of color. Apostrophe works to center voices that have historically been left out of the art-making space.
Mugs from Indigo & Swan
We absolutely love these mugs which were created by artist & activist Ferarra Swan. Check out one of our favorite corners of Etsy.
Coloring Without Borders
Support Families Belong Together by picking up this interactive, bilingual coloring book which features over 80 international artists.
Clothes from Grand BLVD
This breathtaking West Philadephia clothing shop is Black-owned and offers sustainably made clothes & accessories.
Classes from The Pastry Project
Learn how to bake up something delicious and help fund free baking or pastry training for folx with barriers to opportunities.
This year, let your values--not the algorithm--help you pick your gifts.
