Why I Don’t Patreon
2 minute read | This ritual in writing contains affiliate links, if you make a qualifying purchase using one of these links I may be paid a commission at no expense to you.
Song: I Don’t F*ck With You by Big Sean
Don’t get me wrong, I have absolutely had a Patreon account but even as I was setting it up (and running a few other Patreon accounts for others) kept feeling conflicted about using it. After some time reflecting, I figured out why it was not resonating with me and I am sharing this in case you’ve considered jumping on the Patreon wagon and would like another perspective. For ease, I have broken this particular ritual in writing into a series so you can find the resources and articles based on my reasoning. Again, keep in mind my goal here is not to make a decision for anyone or criticize creators and artists that do utilize Patreon as a platform.
Right quick, I just want to name that the quote above is quoted as written by the author, however this quote is for all persons whether identifying as female, male or gender non-conforming.
The main reasons I don’t Patreon are:
Patreon is a subscription based model which often is extractive and exploitative.
The demand on the creator or owner of the Patreon account to constantly and consistently generate something new in exchange or as justification for collecting funding. This (IMO) amplifies the need for proving oneself and their value, definitely an act of white supremacy.
The demand on the creator or owner of the Patreon to manage yet another (insert deep sigh and eye roll) platform. As if FOMO (fear of missing out) for not being on another platform where potential clients and customers could be. Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Threads, LinkedIn, Patreon, YouTube and wherever podcast are found. Imagine not being able to care for onesself and then having to manage just one more thing with limited capacity. I’m opting out!
Ownership of your intellectual property. The work on Patreon is here because the creator placed it there and earned the trust or relationship with those that want to show up to benefit from and support their work. But Patreon gets a ‘cut’ between 5-12%
If you’ve been around here for awhile, you know I hate to bring a problem or thought forward without also providing solutions that feel more expansive or liberating for me. I am not saying to not support creators or that creators are not worth their value. I am saying to be intentional and unpack colonial ways of showing up, we can have some nuance and criticize even ideas and platforms that may have been intended for one use and could cause harm in other ways. If you are looking to read part one, visit here.