Villaseñor, Emma

In human groups, there is a wide range of approaches to decision-making regarding nature. In territories of life, these decisions are made collectively. Territories of life are communities defined by: 1) a deep connection between the community and the territory; 2) effective governance; and 3) positive conditions for both nature and the community resulting from this connection and collective decision-making. However, this collective vision, as a paradigm for action concerning nature, has been eroded and is constantly threatened by neocolonialist approaches.
For this panel we would like to share an experience that is starting with different communities in Mexico, in which we are using the community of practice approach to foster collective learning and action. The community of practice of Territories of life, in Mexico, embraces a collective learning approach centered on action, with learning topics chosen based on the urgent needs of the communities. Each topic aims to facilitate joint reflection on the threats to collective action and strategies for its enhancement. Throughout this process, we are navigating the inherent challenges of transdisciplinary research, including epistemological issues (such as relational versus separate forms of knowledge building), practical concerns (like time constraints and differing priorities), and challenges related to collaborative work (balancing activism with knowledge co-production), among others.
We believe that this methdology offers a valuable foundation for building networks that generate practical and applicable knowledge. We have learned that understanding among members and building trust are essential processes that takes time and require ongoing dialogue. We also found that the practice is enriched by the diversity of perspectives and experiences, and that addressing the threats and urgent needs of the communities is essential for legitimate transdisciplinary work.

Addressing socioecological conflicts requires that those that inhabit territories under dispute channel various forms of collective action. Generating spaces for academics to accompany these processes though schemes of knowledge co-generation, requires challenging the paradigms of science with a vision that aims at weaving new collaborative practices. This requires, as a starting point, recognizing and addressing differences in power and privileges between actors. Likewise, it requires developing interpersonal skills, to forge relationships of trust and reciprocity that include the need to integrate issues related to affection and emotions. Herein, we present, more than a methodological strategy, a set of elements that we consider essential to develop and build assertive communication that supports collective action. These elements are discussed within the framework of the research and advocacy project “Building bridges towards the search for solutions to socioecological problems in the Yucatan Peninsula” developed by Tejedores de Territorios, a collective whose participants are from indigenous community organizations, civil associations, non-governmental organizations, and members of the academia, including students. This work had the general objective of strengthening territorial defense strategies through knowledge co-creation. From our reflection based on this transdisciplinary endeavor, we consider that many risks are taken when seeking collaboration that are of varied nature. These risks have to do with issues of commitment, co-responsibility, trust or distrust, and time.