Well, in the end, that is up to the Women in the community, who, before anyone moves into the community, will have decided.
My ideas would be based firmly around the Women of the community actively leading it, and with opportunities for men to have their say too.
In the planning stages, I'd say it would be important for all to have a say (Women, and men), as they are the families that will be living within the community. An 'elected' leader would be chosen from the ladies initially, prior to moving into a completed community. Other senior roles in the planning stage should also be made up from the Women.
Even a Female-led cohousing community needs input from the men, especially in the planning stages.
Upon moving into the cohousing community, The ladies would continue to fill all leadership roles, and voting rights extended to all female community members. As suggested in the 'Femquility' model, men could have their say via. discussion with their wives/partners, and 'asking them to consider voice to their views'
the Femquility 'Wise Woman Council' (WWC) is also a fantastic idea in my view, and would help mediate disputes and decision making in the community.
Regular WWC meetings manage the community and it's affairs, with news electronically sent to members of the community.
Female-friendly groups, such as a sisterhood, mentoring, and a group for teenage girls should also be considered.
However, men should not be forgotten, a men's group (under direction of the WWC) should also be considered.
The community house would be the centre of the community. Possibly two stories high, on the ground floor, it may feature a shared kitchen, eating area, quiet lounge, and things for young kids, maybe a small library with books and DVDs. The upstairs may contain a female-only area.
Meeting regularly to socialise is a big part of cohousing, and the community house attempts to meet this need. Shared dinners and regular weekly events for members to attend (optional, but encouraged) would be a ongoing feature...
Are you still looking to explore this idea? We have a FLR in Melbourne and would like to chat more with you as we feel strongly about a similar idea.
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