A community for BIPOC animal advocates.

Sometimes BIPOC folks need spaces to reflect, connect, and heal.

Knowing that there is a community of others who look like us or have similar experiences in the animal protection movement can build a sense of belonging and resilience.

Since its inception, the Global Majority Caucus has functioned to build greater equity in the animal protection movement by providing community, resources, and professional development to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color).

NEWS

The Global Majority Caucus was a project initiated by Encompass and was recently moved to APEX Advocacy. We’re thrilled to be continuing this important community for animal advocates.

Who is the Caucus for?

  • Anyone who identifies as a person of color (e.g., Black, Brown, Indigenous, Asian and Pacific Islander folks). Given our limited capacity, we’re only able to offer online programming in English.

  • Anyone who holds an animal rights ethic (working/engaging in the movement is not required).

    * NOTE: We know that racial identities are social constructs created in particular moments of time, based on specific geographies, among a number of other factors. Because of this, we welcome white-passing people of the global majority in our caucus and ask that everyone — especially those with racial advantages as it relates to colorism — be intentional of our shared commitments, particularly as it relates to power dynamics.

If you're considering whether or not this space is for you, please know that we are co-creating a community of BIPOC advocates who desire a refuge from the white-dominated sectors of the animal protection movement. If this resonates with what you’re seeking, we welcome you!


What are the benefits?

  • Access to programs and resources (e.g. trainings)

  • Career advancement opportunities (e.g., jobs, speaking engagements, committees, boards), as available

  • Belonging to a vibrant community

 

What are the activities?

  • Leadership development opportunities

  • Community-building events

 
 

What does it cost?

  • Nothing! Participation in the Global Majority Caucus is free.

Testimonials

  • "

    Before I joined the Global Majority Caucus, I never realized how much I missed and needed the company of fellow BIPGM folks. Finding it and participating in monthly events like the check in, and in conversations in the Slack channel has proved to be a source of inspiration, affirmation, and also a place to meet like minded activists who bring so many gifts to this movement. I also must speak to the grace and empathy that Brialle Ringer brings to this forum as facilitator. She has a remarkable talent for bringing calm, hope, and even joy to difficult discussions, and I am deeply grateful for her insight and perspective.”

    — Julia Magnus, The Open Sanctuary Project

  • "

    AWESOME EVENT! I just wanted to tell you that I really appreciate the space you created! I didn't realize that this was something I was even missing. It really helps to refill my cup knowing that such a diverse group is doing so much to improve the world around us. Thanks for making this space and facilitating it so well! I really enjoyed the breathing exercise at the start… Thanks also for inviting me into your Caucus Community. I've already gained a lot from being a part of it and it hasn't even been a month.”

    — Adam Hicks

  • "

    The GMC community is one of my main sources of inspiration right now. Being in conversation with people so passionate about their work in the movement recharges my energy levels and motivates me to dive into new projects with a sense of curiosity and excitement rather than fear. I’ve received support and trust from all members and so many opportunities have come my way since I joined. Brialle has done an excellent job facilitating all the different spaces and putting together amazing resources for us.”

    — Josue Cabrera, Transforming Culture

  • "

    Through the video-based check-in calls, I feel seen and literally heard… Through the Caucus Slack channel, I met two founding partners of the Unity Collective after posting that I was seeking collaborators to participate in Pitch Day. Soon enough, we're forming an entity to create equitable funding paths for BIPOC-led work.”

    — Hemi Kim

  • "

    Thank you for how you have hosted the check ins. I enjoy the calm, grounding, and centering approach. I really appreciate having the space to chat honestly with others who share similar experiences. Thank you for challenging us to connect more with each other directly.”

    — Kwok Lee

  • "

    I found that last check-in to be incredibly enriching and connecting. As I’ve said before, your facilitation is masterful.”

    — Unny Nambudiripad

Shared Commitments

  • Members always strive to show respect for all human and non-human animals. We do not bring or serve animal products to any APEX Advocacy event.

  • We aim to create a brave space where we engage with each other and grow together.

  • We practice empathy, the ability to sense other people’s emotions, and to imagine what someone else might be experiencing.

  • We share our knowledge, thoughts, and feelings, and we create space for others to do the same. Only one person speaks at a time.

  • We use a learning stance to navigate difficult conversations. We explore and embrace each other’s stories.

  • We will be mindful of power dynamics that may arise, particularly as it relates to colorism. We will practice stepping up and stepping back during community-building events to share space equitably and allow room for the voices of those most marginalized to process their experiences.

  • When someone errs, we use call-ins first, and in a timely manner.

  • When we are hurt, we speak up about the impact someone has had on us. We do not use put downs.

  • When we hurt someone, we listen for their feelings, reflect on our intentions, and make amends.

  • We all take responsibility for our contributions and help others understand their contributions.

  • We address membership issues within the membership space, not outside of it, including on social media.

  • We arrive to meetings and events, both virtual and in-person, on time. Community-building events will close their doors five minutes past the start time.

Suggestions and feedback are welcome.

Members agree to abide by these values and code of conduct. Non-compliance will be addressed individually by caucus staff, and if resistant to change, could ultimately result in dismissal from the caucus.