About the Study Group
In August 2026, the study group got a new coordinator. The study group is in the process of being revived, with hopes of it being a mix of discussing history that has led us to the present time and mutual aid/related topics. So far we have scheduled a historic site visit for October 2026. At present the Slack channel is the best place to check for what’s happening with the group.
Previous text of this page
[N.B. yes, I’m aware the purported mailing list link actually goes to an outdated Zoom link]:
Study Group is like a book club, but it’s okay if you don’t read the book 🙂 Come talk about the intersection of ideas and practice in mutual aid networks!
We currently meet on an ad-hoc basis. You can register to get on the mailing list here. The mailing list is used to keep folks updated on the next study group topic. You can also post in #study-groups on slack to get the zoom link and access to the relevant PDFs!
Archive of Past Topics
- Study Group List – here’s a list of previous topics, if you want to check out some of what have been discussed!
- Reading Repository – similar to the doc above, but a lil bit older.
More Resources to Learn about Mutual Aid
- Mutual Aid Toolkit! A handy crash course in mutual aid, including videos as well as notes with timestamps if you prefer to read. 🙂
- What’s the difference between mutual aid and charity? A handy chart, by the GOAT Dean Spade!
Back to MAMAS Working Groups
Get involved with the Study Group!
Slack channels: #study-group
Next steps to get involved:
- Attend group tours of historical sites to learn about how our local history informs our present. Upcoming site visits focus on the experiences of oppressed and enslaved people. Post in #study-group to RSVP! (Details below)
- Share your ideas on what you’d like to talk about and/or visit next by joining the #study-group channel in Slack.Â
- Check out what we’ve explored so far here!
Next scheduled study group meetings:
- [In-person] Fri., Nov. 20, 4pm – Group visit to the Central Branch of the Somerville Public Library (79 Highland Ave.), where a librarian will be showing us mutual aid zines and other items of interest from their collections. Meet on the 2nd floor. RSVPs appreciated but not required.
- [In-person] Sun., Dec. 6, in afternoon – Private group tour of Old North Church in the North End. Learn about the role of the Church in the Battles of Lexington and Concord, as well as the historical experiences of Black and Indigenous congregants, some of whom were enslaved people. Part of the tour may involve climbing a difficult staircase, and if you’re unable or uncomfortable you can wait downstairs during that part. Please post in #study-groups to RSVP (RSVP required as this tour has limited spaces).