Design to Divest was the seed that grew into Àròko Cooperative. Read on for the thinking that grounds our manifesto.
#design #blackdesigners #divestmentDesign is neither a neutral nor objective force, it reflects the values and intent of the beings that wield it. Design is an instinct and the primary means by which we modify and interact with our environment to align with our needs and aspirations.
Throughout history, we have experienced design being used as a tool for harm and marginalization. Yet, we have also experienced design articulate relationships that support equity, wellbeing, and liberation.
Well-being of community, and harmony with our natural environment are at the center of many cultural practices of our African and Indigenous ancestors. At best these practices have been historically undervalued; at worst, they have been systematically erased.
Designing for divestment is a practice of design in service of liberation rather than domination to promote communal prosperity. Approaching design through Afrocentric and Indigenous philosophies, can unlock wisdom that will heal our relationships with our Earth and each other.
We can create new institutions, frameworks, and systems that foster communities of care, equity, and harmony by centering these practices. We must continually divest from all systems and structures of inequity, so that we may design new, restorative and equitable futures.
