What is Mutual Aid?

When things go south, it’s usually our neighbors, not the government, who step up to help. This idea of mutual aid—people supporting each other without expecting anything in return—is a powerful tool in fighting against fascism and other forms of oppression. But what exactly is mutual aid, and why does it matter so much?

Mutual aid is all about people helping people, directly and without middlemen. Think of it as a community-driven safety net. It can be anything from sharing food and clothes, to offering free medical care or legal advice, to creating community gardens.

Why is Mutual Aid Important?

Empowerment and Solidarity: Mutual aid helps build strong, connected communities. When we rely on each other, we don’t have to depend on systems that often fail or exploit us. It’s about standing together and lifting each other up.

Direct Support: Unlike charities that can be slow and have a lot of red tape, mutual aid is fast and straightforward. It’s about meeting needs directly and immediately, without judgment or bureaucracy.

Resisting Oppression: Mutual aid challenges the idea that we must compete for resources. Instead, it shows that cooperation and shared well-being are possible and powerful. It’s a form of resistance against a system that wants us divided and struggling.

Building Alternatives: By practicing mutual aid, we create real-world examples of how society could be better. These projects can inspire broader changes and show that another world is possible.

How to Get Involved in Mutual Aid

• Join or Start a Group: Look for existing mutual aid networks or start your own. It can be as simple as organizing a food share or setting up a support group.

• Share What You Have: Everyone has something to offer, whether it’s food, clothes, skills, or time. Pitch in with whatever you can.

• Foster Solidarity: Encourage a sense of community in your everyday interactions. Spread the word about mutual aid and get more people involved.

• Work Together: Collaborate with other groups and organizations. The more we work together, the stronger our efforts will be.

Mutual aid is more than just a way to get through tough times—it’s a revolutionary practice that helps us build the kind of world we want to live in, one based on cooperation, solidarity, and mutual respect.