Our Philosophy
It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.
Audre Lorde
At the Ecological Design Collective (EDC), we believe in the power of collectivity and the possibility of radical change. Our collective is grounded in democratic values and collaborative practices. We intentionally avoid hierarchical structures, and our work is guided by a team of volunteer curators who help foster relationships, grow our network, plan events, and care for our shared online spaces.
We recognize that the internet has opened up vast possibilities for sharing ideas and engaging in discussions across geographic and ideological spaces, but that for-profit platforms manipulate the content and interactions available to people to stoke contention and resentment. So we’re also committed to using non-corporate, open source, technology for our collective work, and our Groups are invitations for others to do the same.
Joining
To join a group on the EDC platform:
- Create an account on the platform.
- Visit the Groups page to browse existing groups.
- Public groups are open to join immediately.
Private groups require you to request access. - Activities in public groups are visible in the main EDC timeline.
Private group content is only visible once you have joined.
Creating
Starting a group is simple:
- Go to the Groups page and select Create a Group.
- Add a group name and description.
- Choose your group’s visibility:
- Public: Anyone can join and view activities.
- Private: Members must request permission to join.
- Hidden: Not visible in the group directory; invitation-only.
- Define member permissions—what actions group members can take.
Organizing
Once your group is created:
- Invite people to join, even if they are not yet on the platform. They will receive an email explaining how to register.
- Start with a welcome post to introduce the group’s purpose, invite self-introductions, and outline your vision for the space.
- Keep your group engaged—groups thrive when organizers are present, consistent, and active.
All group organizers are expected to uphold the values outlined in the EDC Code of Conduct.
Using the Platform Tools
The EDC platform includes powerful and easy-to-use tools, available for free to all members:
- Public and private group creation
- Group video meetings
- Message threads and collaborative documents
- Event listings on the shared calendar
- Mobile apps for easier access and coordination
You can also host private meetings, facilitate group discussions, and share events or opportunities directly through the platform.
Need help? Email us anytime at curators@ecodesigncollective.org.
Moderating a Group on the EDC Platform
As a Group Moderator, you have the opportunity to create a vibrant and thoughtful community. While not all tasks are required, here are some suggested ways to contribute:
Content Curation
- Share articles, videos, and resources aligned with ecological and design interests
- Post announcements and upcoming events
- Spark conversations by suggesting timely and relevant content
Community Engagement
- Initiate discussions with thoughtful questions
- Encourage respectful and active participation
- Update group guidelines as needed
- Monitor conversations to keep them constructive
Promoting Projects and Collaborations
- Help members share their work and receive feedback
- Foster connections and collaborative opportunities
- Highlight members’ initiatives and accomplishments
Facilitating Events
- Organize virtual meetups or in-person gatherings
- Host workshops or themed conversations
- Collaborate with other groups to build shared initiatives
Sharing Opportunities
- Post calls for grants, fellowships, or residencies
- Maintain a living archive of tools and resources
- Explore partnerships with aligned projects and organizations
By cultivating spaces for collective learning and creative experimentation, EDC group moderators play a key role in building momentum for ecological transformation. Thank you for helping our community thrive.
One day, I know the struggle will change. There’s got to be a change – not only for Mississippi, not only for the people in the United States, but people all over the world.
Fannie Lou Hamer