ROSA, the socialist feminist movement, fights against all forms of oppression. We challenge sexism, racism, transphobia, queerphobia, ableism, class oppression, religious oppression and all other forms of inequality in our campaigning work. We oppose any such behaviours within ROSA, in the wider movement, and in society as a whole.
We are committed to creating a space where women, trans and non-binary people, intersex people, and people of all genders and sexualities are treated with dignity and respect. We recognise that oppression does not affect us all in the same way, and that power dynamics and structural inequalities shape even the spaces where we come together to resist them.
Together, we take responsibility for creating an atmosphere where solidarity, safety and mutual support allow us to fight for a world free of oppression and exploitation. Individually, we are responsible for our conduct and the way it impacts others. We strive to embody the spirit of collective care and solidarity that is essential to challenging the divisions and exploitation of capitalism.
We will take any concerns seriously and act where necessary and appropriate, in line with our safeguarding commitment. ROSA is a campaigning organisation and we are aware of our limitations – we primarily signpost to external support groups and specialist services. When concerns are shared with us, we act on the best information available, informed by our understanding of patterns of abuse, power imbalances, and risk factors.
What to expect when attending our discussions and meetings
The subjects we discuss are often emotionally heavy, difficult, and sometimes triggering. We work to channel our individual and collective experiences into purposeful activism, because we know change is urgent. The issues we campaign on – including misogyny, transphobia, queerphobia, racism, intimate abuse and exploitation – are deeply personal, and the personal is political.
Our discussions are shaped by lived experiences, but we also aim to minimise the risk of harm to ourselves and others. At our meetings, you can expect, and others can expect of you:
- To be mindful when raising sensitive issues, and to use content warnings where appropriate.
- To avoid sharing graphic or highly personal disclosures in group settings, unless agreed with others in advance.
- To avoid misgendering or making assumptions about someone’s identity, body or experiences.
We cannot know what others may have been through, and sharing details without care can be upsetting. ROSA organisers can signpost to support organisations with the training and expertise to provide appropriate help – please approach them if you are unsure where to turn.
What to expect when you share a concern about someone’s behaviour with us
You can expect to be listened to and believed. We will take all concerns seriously and consider necessary and appropriate action in line with our safeguarding commitment.
ROSA is not a state agency and does not have the resources of a large organisation. We cannot carry out investigations, but we can:
- Listen with care and without judgement.
- Take steps to protect the safety and wellbeing of participants.
- Signpost to external specialist services.
- Act on the best available information, while taking into account patterns of abuse, structural power imbalances, and the risks faced by trans, queer, migrant, disabled and racialised people in particular.
Where appropriate, and with respect for confidentiality, we will inform you of actions taken. Sometimes this will not be possible, especially if concerns are shared indirectly or by third parties.