A review by bisexualbookshelf
Practicing Liberation by Hala Khouri, Tessa Hicks Peterson

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.0

"Practicing Liberation: Transformative Strategies for Collective Healing & Systems Change," edited by Tessa Hicks Peterson and Hala Khouri, is a powerful collection of abolitionist and transformative justice essays that delve into themes of healing justice, decolonialism, community care, and collective liberation. This anthology is a clarion call to those involved in social justice movements, offering a comprehensive guide to addressing burnout and fostering sustainable activism.

One of the most striking aspects of this collection is its unwavering commitment to the principle that "we keep each other safe." The essays collectively emphasize that self-care is not a selfish act but a crucial component of community care. By taking care of ourselves, we are better equipped to support and nurture our communities. This concept is especially important for leaders of organizations and collectives, who are provided with practical advice on structuring their communities in a manner that prioritizes healing justice.

These authors fiercely argue against the capitalist and productivity-driven mindset that often pervades social justice work. Instead, they advocate for rest as a form of resistance, challenging the notion that constant productivity is necessary for meaningful change. This perspective is refreshing and necessary, especially in a society that often glorifies overwork and burnout.

A significant strength of this collection is its trauma-informed approach. Each essay underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing personal trauma to prevent its perpetuation in activist spaces. The contributors highlight the need for imagination and creativity in enacting change, viewing these as essential skills for building a more just and equitable world.

Several essays explore the somatic impact of trauma and stress, making the case that the personal is indeed political. By bringing somatics and embodiment into activist conversations, the anthology sheds light on the intersection of oppression and chronic stress. This approach not only enriches the discourse but also provides practical tools for activists to care for their bodies and minds amidst the rigors of social justice work.

Harm reduction and transformative justice are central themes in many of the essays. The contributors draw on the work of bell hooks and adrienne maree brown to discuss the differences between calling in and calling out, and how harm can be transformed rather than exacerbated. The essays explore the benefits of affinity spaces versus integrated spaces in harm reduction processes, underscoring the necessity of collective accountability in achieving collective liberation.

One standout essay, "Breath. Fugitivity. Wild Horses: Black Feminist Strategies for Healing in a Predatory Empire" by Valerie Thomas, offers an insightful exploration of anti-Black racism, feminism, and the neurophysiology of trauma. Thomas expertly dissects the phenomenon of Complex Racial Trauma within education, providing a compelling analysis that is both informative and deeply moving.

Overall, "Practicing Liberation" is a must-read for fans of bell hooks and adrienne maree brown, as well as anyone committed to social justice and transformative change. The essays offer actionable strategies for practicing transformative justice and harm reduction in various contexts, making this collection a valuable resource for activists, organizers, and community leaders. With its rich insights and practical advice, "Practicing Liberation" earns a solid four out of five stars.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of Transformative Justice, Readers Engaged in Social Justice Movements, Admirers of Healing Justice and Community Care Practices, Fans of bell hooks and adrienne maree brown.

🔑 Key Themes: Collective Liberation and Trauma-Informed Approaches, Self-Care as Community Care, Somatic Healing and Embodiment, Harm Reduction and Collective Accountability.

Expand filter menu Content Warnings