There are so many groups in KC, why this one?

The point is not to replace any of the organizations in Kansas City already doing amazing things for our community. My hope for Progressive Besties is to serve more as a kind of support group. A place where we can develop community and long lasting friendships with other beautiful progressive humans.

I would like to use Progressive Besties as ONE MASSIVE RESOURCE and a way to streamline and simplify information.

Is this stepping on the toes of black and queer folk who have been organizing for decades?

That is not my intention. Let me explain it this way:

What prevents many white women from breaking out of the death grip that the patriarchy has on them? Lack of community. This group is meant to highlight the work queer people and the black community are already doing.

This is NOT a white woman group, I want it to be as diverse as possible. But one goal of The Progressive Besties is to encourage white people to get off their asses and do some of the labor minorities, specifically black women, have been doing for decades.

How is this going to help?

One of the number one things that keep people from getting involved is feeling intimidated going to meetings, marches, and rallies by themselves.

People are much more likely to be committed to their advocacy if they have friends encouraging them and attending these events WITH them!

What are the principles of the group?

I want this to be a collaborative group that makes decisions together. HOWEVER, there are a few things that are a non-negotiable:

Trans women are women. No TERF bullshit accepted here.

White women members being committed to de-centering themselves within the group and our daily lives.

Will this be a place where former republicans, independents, or people new to politics will feel welcome?

Um, hell yes!

This group is committed to leaving room for people to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow.

The democratic party is extremely diverse in ideology and it is important that converts, newbies, moderates, progressives, leftists, and (left wing) independents can co-exist.

As long as you are respectful, open to dialogue, and ready to fight, this group is for you.