Triangle Project is grounded and informed by feminist principles relating to activism and advocacy, which includes sex positivity, a rejection of hierarchies, accountability and transparency, intersectionality, respect and an understanding of historical context.
Sex positivity
Sex positivity means an attitude towards sex and sexuality that is not restricted to biology. Sex positivity is simply the idea that all sex, as long as it is healthy and explicitly consensual, is a positive thing. In light of this, we do not view sex or sexuality as taboo, secretive, sensitive or something needing moralistic intervention.
Transparency and accountability
That we are accountable and transparent to those constituents we work with as well as funders of the organization but also transparent and accountable internally and to one another. While proper financial and other accountability is essential, as a guiding value, transparency and accountability extends beyond financial matters and includes decision making, processes and other parts of our work, which at all times should value openness.
Non-hierarchical structure
We seek to have a non-hierarchical structure where collaborative work is encouraged and each person’s opinion and knowledge is equally valued.
Inclusivity
Understanding all of the above, inclusivity is important in and of itself and is something which must be strived for rather than being a pleasant outcome of a process. At all times our work should be driven by an understanding of being accessible, welcoming and including all who wish to take part.
Respect
Understanding the constituents you are working with and having regard for people and people’s opinions and beliefs. Respect also includes understanding that LGBTIQ people are best placed to inform the work of the organization in a substantive way. Valuing the opinions of others, understanding the context people are operating under and assuming good faith.
Historical context
Historical context means that the organization should be aware of the various factors influencing the current social, political, economic, cultural and other factors which influence the work we do. To this end, understanding the effects of colonialism, violent white minority rule and other systems of oppression and domination is key.
Intersectional understanding of oppression and vulnerability
Linked to placing our work within the contemporary social and political context and understanding the role of historical contexts, intersectionality means that we understand that a person’s sexual orientation is only one of the factors which influence their lived realities. Therefore, it is essential that our work understands that LGBTIQ people exist in different racial, class, economic, geographic and other realities that very closely impact their experience of their life. Intersectionality also means that as an organization, we must form useful and strategic partnerships with other
Acknowledging and challenging power imbalances
In order to commit to work which is intersectional and effective, this work must always be grounded in an understanding of power imbalances and how they must be challenged. This means that as an organisation we understand the power imbalances created by various factors including race, class, patriarchy, gender, socio-economic position, access to education and geography including the urban/rural divide.