Charity versus Solidarity

Charity is patronising, and does nothing to challenge current systems of hierarchy. Compare this with Michael Albert’s “reformist” and “revolutionary” reforms…

Solidarity is when you recognize your own struggle in the struggle of others. Revolutionary solidarity is solidarity with the becoming-active of others and therefore with their refusal to accept the alienation of their own power…
The Anarchist Ethic in the Age of the Anti-Globalization Movement, Killing King Abacus #2, page 37

If you come only to help me, you can go back home.
But if you consider my struggle as part of your struggle for survival, then maybe we can work together.
Aboriginal woman

UPDATE – see also Rebecca Solnit’s “A Paradise Built in Hell” – I’ll add a quote or two.