A zine recounting of a recurring nightmare from my childhood, and it’s influence on my relationship to authority today. In this zine, I question the lack of responsibility on authority figures to create a space where everyone is safe and able to communicate their needs. I believe I had this dream as a child because I felt unable to do so, and in turn became a compulsive rule-follower.

Often when I hear the phrase “a problem with authority”, there’s a negative emphasis on the person under authority, suggesting a rebellious nature and refusal to conform. When I hear this, I want to know…

What structures & expectations have been placed on the person under authority?

And are they in a position where they can communicate their needs?

Shouldn’t the problem belong to the person given the responsibility of authority?

And have they abused that power?

Can there be leadership without fear?

I ask myself these questions to stay mindful of power dynamics and to activate my own empathy and ability to recognize injustice when I see it happening. I hope that this zine can do the same for others, and at the very least encourage conversation about the impact of authority structures in our day-to-day lives.