Inclusion | PoC Lead

PURPOSE/SUMMARY

Radical inclusion is a principle in the Burning Man community, However the situation of certain groups of people can be overlooked by the majority, thus we’ve built the Department of Inclusion to provide customised and/or deeper care for those who might need additional support. This may include and is not limited to: persons of colour, those with neurodiversity, children (under 18s), parents, disabled participants, those that are neurodiverse, and those that may have additional specific needs such as participants in recovery or on a lower income. We work to create a community inclusive environment at Nowhere and provide a safe and sober space for participants of all ages and abilities. We work to ensure that all language groups, age demographics, minorities, and those that are differently abled are considered in the planning and production of Nowhere. Our mission is to create a supportive environment rooted in respect and acknowledgement, which empowers people of all kinds to include themselves in the co-creation of Nowhere.

The PoC Inclusion Lead serves as the primary contact for participants of colour and works alongside other Inclusion Team members to advocate for the physical and psychological safety of participants, no matter what the background or context they come from.

Tasks and Time Commitment

This is a year round role, and planning typically starts in earnest from January, taking maybe an hour or two a week and getting busier in the run up to July. The month before the event is usually the busiest, requiring up to three or four hours weekly depending on workload and team size, and after the event there are some wrap-up tasks before a lull until the cycle starts again. During the event you will have few duties but may wish to check in with those Team members who are working more actively onsite.

Here’s an example of some of the tasks you’ll be helping with throughout the year;

Pre Event 

• Actively build a community for those participants who consensually agree to be a part of it.
• Primary contact for PoCs to answer questions, address concerns, and provide advice/guidance to participants
• Acts as a channel of communication between participants and Nowhere organization
• Liaise with the Inclusion Lead to ensure that information useful to PoCs reaches those who need it via social media, Survival Guide, newsletters, etc.
• Where appropriate, make connections between participants in similar situations to provide mutual support
• Attend regular monthly meetings with Inclusion Team members and the Participant Wellness MetaLead, where required

On Site

• You may choose to run on site meet ups for PoC to connect in person

Post Event

• Provide written feedback in the form of a Post Nowhere Report (PNR)
• Participate in a wrap up meeting with your team and/or MetaLead as appropriate
• If you intend to step down, ensure the role description is up to date
• Attend the annual All Leads Meeting (ALM) if possible