Politics in Love, Sex & Relationships (PILSAR): solo-poly, self-care & the politics of solitude

Solo polyamory is often seen as one of the many ways to ‘do polyamory’. In fact, there are varied ways to ‘do solo poly’, with some choices seemingly contraditory but still driven by some similar needs and worldviews. Until not long ago it was a little known term and its legitimacy even questioned by some members of the poly community.
A few years later and not only there’s an active discourse about the term in poly and queer circles, but raising awarness to the intresting intersctions of solo-poly, relationship anarchy, self-care, consent and solitude that even the not solo among us could find thought and heart provoking.
Hopefully the meeting can also offer some solidarity against negative views of solitude that are rife in heteronormative society. (Lorde also said: ‘without community there is no liberation’ – which in this case could raise the question of the relationship between solo members and communities).

* Send your questions/situations/dilemmas/recommended reading/inspiration or any questions, issues or similar that you would like to bring up at the session to pilsargroup@gmail.com

PILSAR is a monthly discussion, peer support, and solidarity group (usually last Sunday of each month) concentrating on thinking and practicing relationships “differently” (that usually means we talk a lot about relationship anarchy, ethical non-monogamy, relationships that don’t conform to the “relationship escalator” idea or other ideas promoted by the capitalist heteropatriarchy.)

The purpose of the group is to discuss issues and learn from each other on a more general level (sometimes with the help of lighter reading material, such as short articles and blog pieces), and also peer support and solidarity – so not just theoretical abstract discussions! Our feeling was that for a lot of people doing relationships differently can be quite difficult, with little support and guidance in people around you and in the media, and so it would be great if we could provide this for each other. After each meeting, we will aim to also go to the pub together for a chance to get to know each other more.

Everyone is welcome to attend. We strive to make this group a safer space for people who are often excluded and marginalised in public spaces and groups. Please read our Safer Spaces Agreement before attending. Common House is accessible by wheelchair (ground level, no steps inside when using the second entrance – let us know if you need the details!), but unfortunately the toilet is not – bear with us while we try to find an accessible toilet in the nearby area. Do let us know if you have other needs either in advance or on the day and we will try to sort something out!

Do let us know if you want to suggest discussion topics, hold a workshop, do an exercise, do a performance or anything else on the subject of doing relationships “differently”.

The meetings are free, but if attendees and supporters wish to contribute donations they can do so at the meeting or online (if you choose the option “family and friends” no fees apply). All funds will be used towards our Common House rent, thank you!

For more information please join our Facebook group or email us at pilsargroup@gmail.com

Name of contact person:
Marta Owczarek

Contact phone number:
07506585722