Relationship Foundations Series: Equity vs. Equality & Hierarchy

Fairness in relationships is rarely as simple as “treat everyone the same.” In non-monogamy especially, relationships often have different needs, levels of commitment, and forms of connection and trying to force equality can sometimes create more harm than clarity.

In this workshop, we will explore how fairness, prioritization, and power dynamics show up within non-monogamous relationships, and why equity is often a more useful framework than equality when building sustainable, intentional connection. Together, we will unpack the difference between equality and equity, examining how rigid attempts to make every relationship look the same can lead to resentment, comparison, burnout, or unmet needs.

Attendees will explore how to make decisions that honor the unique context of each relationship while still maintaining transparency, care, and accountability. We will discuss how to navigate differences in time, energy, commitment, emotional investment, and practical responsibilities without defaulting to control, scarcity, or unhealthy comparison.
From there, we will take a deeper look at hierarchy: what it is, how it functions both explicitly and implicitly, and how power dynamics can impact autonomy, agency, trust, and emotional safety within relationships. We will also differentiate between prioritization and hierarchy, helping attendees explore how to intentionally allocate time, resources, and responsibility without unintentionally limiting the autonomy of others.

We will also explore the complexities of hinge dynamics and metamour relationships, including the responsibilities of being a hinge partner, navigating communication across shared relationships, and fostering healthier metamour interactions rooted in clarity, respect, and consent. Attendees will examine how triangulation, comparison, and miscommunication can emerge in interconnected relationship systems, and how intentional communication, boundaries, and accountability can reduce unnecessary harm.

Throughout the workshop, we will emphasize self-awareness, communication, and consent as foundational tools for navigating complex relational structures. Attendees will be invited to reflect on their own values around fairness, commitment, autonomy, and responsibility, and develop language for expressing those values with greater clarity and intention.

By the end of the workshop, attendees will leave with practical tools for making more equitable decisions, navigating hierarchy and prioritization with greater awareness, and building healthier, more transparent dynamics across multiple relationships.

Doors open at 6:30pm. Workshop starts at 7pm.

The Relationship Foundations Series is designed to provide competency in core relationship skills that are necessary to maintain successful meaningful relationships. By identifying the most prominent friction points in the practice of transitioning and practicing non-monogamy, the series seeks to provide attendees with the knowledge and practical skills to avoid roadblocks, move through discomfort, and build thriving relationships.