Guide to Using Discord

Discord is an excellent platform for organizing protests and movements, offering tools to communicate, coordinate, and collaborate in real-time. As Indivisible groups across the metro Denver area work to resist the current administration, we want to ensure that our efforts are inclusive, productive, and reflective of the values we stand for. This guide provides best practices for organizing as a coalition and maximizing Discord’s potential to mobilize people while fostering a leaderless and cooperative structure.

Core Principles for Organizing as a Coalition

We defer to Indivisible Nationwide.

One of the strengths of our coalition is that we do not rely on hierarchical leadership. Instead, we operate with representatives who facilitate discussions and actions. This ensures that every voice matters and decisions are made collectively. Here’s how to maintain a leaderless structure:

• Rotate Responsibilities: Assign rotating roles for facilitation, moderation, and task delegation. This helps prevent power imbalances and encourages participation from everyone.
• Shared Decision-Making: Use polls or consensus-based voting to make collective decisions.
• Transparency: Ensure all decisions, discussions, and actions are visible and accessible to the entire group.

Inclusivity

Creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels included and valued is essential. To foster inclusivity:

• Acknowledge Contributions: Recognize and appreciate the ideas and efforts of all members.
• Encourage Participation: Make it clear that all voices are important and encourage quieter members to share their thoughts.
• Respect Diversity: Celebrate the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of your coalition members.

Handling Disagreements

Disagreements are natural and, when handled constructively, can lead to stronger ideas and solutions. To manage disagreements effectively:

• Direct Communication: Encourage individuals to address disagreements directly and respectfully.
• Active Listening: Ensure all parties feel heard and understood before proposing solutions.
• Mediation: If conflicts escalate, representatives can facilitate a neutral and constructive discussion.
• Focus on Common Goals: Remind everyone of the shared mission and values that unite the group.

Best Practices for Using Discord as a Platform

Setting Up the Server

To maximize organization and efficiency, structure your Discord server with these key elements:

• Channels: Create channels for specific topics, such as:
  • General discussion
  • Action planning
  • Resources and tools
  • Announcements
  • Local group coordination
• Roles: Assign roles based on tasks, such as moderators, representatives, or coordinators. Use roles to manage permissions and responsibilities.
• Rules and Guidelines: Post clear rules in a dedicated channel to set expectations for respectful communication and behavior.

Communication and Collaboration

• Daily Action Tips: Use a dedicated channel to post daily action items, such as contacting representatives, attending protests, or sharing resources.
• Pinned Messages: Pin important messages in each channel to make them easily accessible.
• Voice Channels: Use voice channels for real-time discussions and planning sessions.
• File Sharing: Upload and share documents, graphics, and other resources directly in relevant channels.

Encouraging Participation

• Onboarding: Welcome new members with a clear explanation of the server’s purpose, rules, and how to get involved.
• Events and Meetings: Host regular virtual events, workshops, or planning meetings to keep momentum and engagement high.
• Recognition: Highlight member contributions in announcements or recognition channels.

Conflict Prevention and Resolution

• Moderation: Assign moderators to enforce rules and mediate disputes.
• Tone Setting: Use positive and inclusive language to set the tone for discussions.
• Private Channels: For sensitive topics or disagreements, create temporary private channels to resolve issues without disrupting the larger group.

Security and Privacy

• Verification: Require new members to verify their identity or affiliation before joining.
• Private Channels: Use private channels for sensitive discussions or planning.
• Permissions: Set appropriate permissions for each role to protect sensitive information.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Encourage all members to enable 2FA for added security.

Encouraging Collaboration and Unity

• Shared Mission: Continuously emphasize the shared goals and values of the coalition.
• Feedback Loops: Regularly solicit feedback from members to improve the server and collaboration processes.
• Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate the collective achievements of the group.

Conclusion

Discord provides a powerful tool for organizing protests and movements, but its success depends on how we use it. By fostering inclusivity, encouraging participation, and maintaining a leaderless structure, we can build a strong and unified coalition that embodies the principles of Indivisible. Together, we can resist, organize, and create lasting change.

By maintaining a leaderless structure (and answering to Indivisible national leadership), we empower individuals to take initiative, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration are at the forefront of our efforts.