Apex Advocacy & Encompass Movement Announcement
Encompass and APEX Advocacy are thrilled to announce the continuation of Encompass’ Global Majority Caucus for animal advocates at APEX Advocacy.
The Caucus has functioned to build greater equity in the animal protection movement by providing community, resources, and professional development to BIPGM. Because the racial composition of the professional farmed animal protection movement is largely white, Black, Indigenous, and animal advocates of the global majority (BIPGM) sometimes need spaces without white folks to reflect, connect, and heal. Knowing that there is a community of others who look like us or have similar experiences in the movement can build a sense of belonging and resilience.
The Caucus provided training, opportunities to get directly in front of funders, and leadership cohorts that otherwise would not have been available to most of its members. This is essential for encouraging and increasing a diversity of perspectives in our shared struggle.
To reduce suffering and oppression and to create a just society effectively, we need to leverage the expertise of people with varying ways of thinking and different experiences. The Caucus ensures the representation necessary on the road toward wellbeing and liberation.
Our organization aims to increase the number of Black, Indigenous, and advocates of the global majority who participate in animal activism by advocating for collective liberation through animal rights, particularly in marginalized areas and communities that are disproportionately affected by industrial animal agriculture. We are honored Encompass has allowed us to be the new home for the Caucus.
Brialle Ringer, who has been stewarding the caucus and supporting its members with great care, compassion, and brilliance at Encompass, will continue to lead this vital work.
Caucus members can expect similar types of events and programs, while also seeing a refresh in what’s offered. Brialle brings extensive experience in hosting healing spaces for BIPGM folks and we’re thrilled she will continue this work at APEX.
The Encompass board is proud to have offered APEX a two-year grant to run this program and will remain available as thought-partners however APEX desires to utilize their expertise.
APEX is eager and excited to carry on the legacy of the Caucus as it is in line with APEX's core values of making space for BIPGM advocates to fully embrace themselves while expanding the animal advocacy community.
Finally, in the coming weeks, Encompass will announce the redistribution plan for their remaining funds. All net assets will be regranted to BIPGM animal protection groups as a way to address funding inequity in our movement.
