Activist Exchange and Billet System

A system for the 'interbioregional' exchange of activists was discussed at
the national nonviolence gathering, 1993.  The idea canvassed was that
activists visiting other bioregions line up for themselves a programme of
learning opportunities with local activists.  It was suggested that one great
way to  help facilitate this is for a local activist to adopt the visitor to
assist in arranging learning opportunities.  A clear request from the visitor
for the type of opportunities sought is essential.

In order to properly support such a system, it was suggested that we have
(and I have undertaken to organize) a billet system for visiting nonviolence
activists.  Following this article is a draft list of agreements for
billetees and billet houses.  Comments on these and houses that wish to
participate in this system can address enquiries to me, James Langley, c/-
4/3 Lucius St., Bondi Beach NSW 2026, or  phone (02) 30 3610.  Eventually the
register of activist skills will be available to assist activists exchanges
in preparing a programme in the place they are visiting.  All the lists of
houses will also be available from the resource centre at Common Ground.

I feel activist exchanges are vital for the growth of the nonviolence
network.  (A discussion of bioregional world view and hopefully a map will be
in the next issue.)
James Langley

Agreements regarding billeting in the activists exchange system.
Agreements for the billetee
1. The primary purpose of the visit/stay in the billet house is for an
activist exchange, unless otherwise negotiated with the billet house.  It is
the responsibility of the billetee to arrange their exchange programme.
2. The billetee takes responsibility for their own expenses, eg. food,
telephone.
3. The billetee participates in general household chores, eg. washing up,
cleaning toilets.
4. The billetee respects the wishes and privacy of the billet household
members.
5. The billetee negotiates the duration of the stay with the household
before, or at the start of the stay.

Agreements for the house
1. The billet household will ensure the billet arrangements are acceptable to
all members of the household.
2. The billeting household should try to make the billet feel welcome.
3. Any change in situation will be clearly and promptly communicated to the
billetee.
4. The billet household will clarify household responsibilities before, or at
the beginning of the stay.