Politics in Love, Sex & Relationships (PILSAR) – Radical Listening

Radical Listening Discussion.

This stemmed from an idea Soof & Sarah are working on for a zine about ‘Radical Listening’.

This session would be an open chat on how to define radical listening and can loosely include any of the following ideas: listening as a radical act, the erasure of listening as emotional labour, how to listen, how NOT to listen, when not to listen. Not treating listeners like your therapist, your listening is a labour, listening is powerful not passive. Don’t take listening for granted. If your friend listens, respect that, value that, reciprocate that, be fucking honoured by that.

We’re thinking of planning some little listening tasks or something along the lines too, to make it more about active listening.

All welcome ♥

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