Introduction to Building Cells
Cells are small, independent groups designed to operate securely and autonomously. They can be used for a variety of purposes—activism, mutual aid, or creating secure communication networks. Cells are typically built around the principles of:
- Privacy and Security: Protecting communication and sensitive information.
- Mutual Aid and Support: Sharing resources, knowledge, and assistance.
- Autonomy: Ensuring independence from centralized systems and control.
Ready to start building? Start here or dive deeper into different aspects:
Types of Cells
Cells can take many forms depending on their purpose. It’s important to understand which type of cell best fits your goals and needs:
- Activism Cells: Focused on political action, civil disobedience, and community organizing.
- Mutual Aid Cells: Focus on resource sharing and community support.
- Tech and Digital Cells: Focus on secure communication and privacy tools.
- Knowledge-Sharing Cells: Collaborative learning spaces for information sharing and skill-building.
Explore each type of cell in greater detail: Read More
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Cell
Building a cell involves more than just gathering a group of people. You need to establish a strong foundation for communication, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
Step 1: Assess the Need
What is the purpose of your cell? Determine whether you’re addressing a specific problem or organizing for a broader cause.
Step 2: Define Core Values and Goals
What values will guide your group’s activities? What are the goals you want to achieve as a collective?
Step 3: Recruitment and Group Formation
Identify and invite people who align with your values and are committed to the cause.
Step 4: Communication and Tools
Choose secure communication methods and tools for collaboration (Signal, ProtonMail, Jitsi, etc.).
Step 5: Roles and Responsibilities
Decide who will take on specific roles and what responsibilities they will carry.
Step 6: Group Agreements and Governance
Establish a basic set of agreements to ensure the group operates smoothly and respects everyone's input.
For a more detailed guide on each step, check out the full guide here.
Governance and Decision-Making in Cells
Effective governance is essential for keeping a cell organized, productive, and harmonious. There are different models of governance, from consensus decision-making to voting and sociocracy.
Key Models of Governance
- Consensus: Everyone must agree on decisions.
- Majority Voting: Decisions are made by the majority of the group.
- Sociocracy: A structured decision-making model that focuses on consent rather than consensus.
How to Balance Leadership and Facilitation
Leaders vs Facilitators: Leaders guide the group’s vision, while facilitators ensure the group follows agreed-upon processes.
Want more about governance and decision-making? Learn More.
Digital Security for Cells
In the digital age, security is paramount. For cells that operate in privacy-sensitive environments, it’s crucial to protect communications and data from surveillance and breaches.
Digital Security Tips for Cells
- Encrypted Messaging: Use apps like Signal for secure communication.
- Secure Email: Use ProtonMail for private, encrypted email.
- Anonymity Tools: Use Tor and VPNs to maintain anonymity while browsing.
For more tips on digital security, click here.
Conflict Resolution and Maintaining Harmony
No group is without conflict. Building a successful cell requires mechanisms for conflict resolution and maintaining harmony between members.
Common Sources of Conflict
- Communication breakdowns
- Disagreements over resources
- Differing values or goals within the group
Effective Conflict Resolution Methods
- Mediation: Facilitating conversations to help resolve disputes.
- Restorative Justice: Repairing harm caused by conflicts through open dialogue.
Learn more about conflict resolution here.
Sustaining and Growing Your Cell
Once your cell is established, it’s important to maintain its momentum and sustainability. This means ensuring the group’s resources, emotional well-being, and long-term viability.
Scaling Your Cell
Maintain small group intimacy while ensuring the growth of the cell through thoughtful scaling strategies.
Sustaining Engagement
Keep members active and engaged through regular meetings and open dialogue.
Resources and Funding
Explore ways to raise funds or share resources (e.g., mutual aid pools, online fundraising).
For more on sustaining and growing your cell, click here.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Building a cell comes with legal and ethical responsibilities. It’s important to consider the implications of your activities, especially in areas like digital privacy and activism.
Privacy and Legal Risks
Understand the laws around data protection and digital security in your country. Know what is permissible when engaging in civil disobedience or activism.
Ethical Dilemmas in Decentralized Organizing
When is it appropriate to break the law for a cause? What ethical principles guide your actions?
Explore legal and ethical considerations here.
Mental Health and Group Well-Being
Caring for your members' emotional and psychological health is essential for a strong, sustainable cell. Mutual aid isn’t just about resources—it’s also about supporting each other’s well-being.
Managing Burnout and Stress
Make sure to check in on group members regularly and provide mental health resources to anyone who may need them.
Building Support Systems
Create an environment where members feel comfortable sharing their struggles and asking for help.
Read more about mental health in your cell here.
Collaboration Between Cells
Once you’ve established a cell, consider collaborating with others to amplify your efforts. Building networks of cells is a powerful way to increase your collective impact.
Working Together Effectively
Collaborating with other cells requires clear communication, shared values, and mutual respect.
Linking Cells for Larger Projects
When multiple cells unite, they can take on bigger challenges together.
For more on collaborating with other cells, click here.