Artists and changemakers applying to participate in Chrysalis Institute’s programs must demonstrate a dedicated commitment to work pertaining to at least one of our 
7 Principles of Collective Care. These principles reflect liberatory notions that seek to dismantle oppression, build inclusive systems, foster creative expression, healing and sustainability for all beings and the planet :

 

1. Cultural Rematriation and Wisdom Tradition Preservation

 

Cultural Rematriation involves the return and revitalization of Indigenous knowledge, practices, and sacred artifacts that have been historically displaced or oppressed. It is grounded in recognizing the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples to reclaim, protect, and pass down their cultural heritage, traditions, and wisdom. Wisdom Tradition Preservation focuses on safeguarding and continuing the practices, rituals, and teachings that have long served as guiding principles for communities, ensuring that these knowledge systems are passed down intergenerationally and maintained within their rightful cultural contexts.

 

2. Equity and Inclusion

 

Equity and Inclusion emphasize creating systems and spaces that work to actively dismantle oppressive structures, ensuring fair treatment, access, and opportunities for all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities. This involves addressing the historical and systemic inequities that have led to disparities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, has the ability to participate meaningfully and is valued in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.

 

3. Environmental Stewardship & Restoration

 

Environmental Stewardship and Restoration center on the ethical responsibility to care for and restore the land, ecosystems, and natural resources that sustain life. This includes actively addressing environmental degradation, promoting sustainability, and engaging in restorative practices that heal and nurture the Earth. It emphasizes a reciprocal relationship with the environment that prioritizes long-term ecological balance and the well-being of future generations.

 

4. Food Abundance, Food Sovereignty & Housing Security

 

These principles advocate for the right of communities to control and have access to nourishing, culturally relevant food and secure housing, free from economic or political exploitation. Food Abundance ensures that food systems are abundant and accessible, while Food Sovereignty emphasizes local control, sustainability, and autonomy over food production and distribution and consumption. Housing Security asserts that all individuals have the right to safe, stable, and affordable housing, and challenges systems that perpetuate housing insecurity and displacement.

 

5. Non-Violence & Reparation

 

Non-Violence centers on rejecting all forms of physical, psychological, and structural violence, and seeking peaceful solutions to conflict and harm. Reparation involves acknowledging and addressing historical injustices through acts of restitution, healing, and accountability. It is grounded in repairing the harm caused by systems of oppression and creating pathways for justice that prioritize restorative practices over punitive measures.

 

6. Relational, Physical, Energetic, Cognitive, Emotional & Spiritual Care

 

This concept emphasizes holistic care that nurtures all dimensions of human well-being. Relational care involves building strong, supportive, and trusting relationships. Physical care attends to the body’s needs for health and vitality, while energetic care acknowledges the importance of balance and alignment in the life force or energy within and between individuals. Cognitive care supports mental clarity and well-being, and emotional care fosters the processing and healing of emotions. Finally, spiritual care nurtures a sense of connection to something greater than oneself, supporting inner peace and alignment with personal or collective values.

 

7. Responsible Consumption, Mutual Aid & Alternative Economies

Responsible Consumption encourages individuals and communities to consider the ethical implications of their consumption choices, emphasizing sustainability, mindfulness, and reducing harm. Mutual Aid involves reciprocal, community-driven support systems where people collectively care for one another's needs, building solidarity and resilience. Alternative Economies refer to economic systems that prioritize collective well-being, fairness, and ecological sustainability over profit maximization, advocating for resource sharing, barter systems, and economic models that are grounded in equity and justice.