For
many of us, the work of social change is a source of great energy, joy, and
inspiration. This work can also lead to exhaustion, frustration, and bitterness
when we experience disappointments, setbacks and the tenacity of structural
injustice. If your spirit longs for rejuvenation, deeper connection with other
activists, and the nurture of a beautiful natural setting, we invite you to be
part of this unique retreat. Utilizing small and large group conversation,
individual reflection, music, videos, and ritual, this retreat will help
participants explore the links between spirituality and social justice
organizing through attention to questions such as:
n What resources from contemporary and historical movements for social change can
guide us in these troubled times?
n What spiritual practices can we develop that will help us stay connected to the
source of our wisdom in the midst of the disappointments and unpredictability
of the work for justice.
n How can ritual help nurture a greater connection to spirit for those of us who
are struggling for racial, economic, environmental and political justice in the
world?
n Where do we draw hope and
strength for ourselves, our communities and our nations, as we work for peace
and justice?
The
facilitators are committed to creating an inclusive environment where diverse
spiritual experiences and traditions are welcomed and honored. Come join us for
this extraordinary weekend of conversation, music, movement, and "beloved
community" as we seek renewal of our spirits and revitalization of our
commitment to social change.
Monique
Savage has
been teaching, presenting and dialoguing about diversity and multicultural
issues since the mid Seventies. Monique specializes in issues that impact
African American women and has spoken on these issues across the country. She
has been the director of Counseling Services at Adrian College for the past 23
years and has taught courses in history and sociology. She has worked as a
multicultural consultant and is a part of the Michigan State University
Extension (MSUE) diversity training team.
Melanie Morrison is an anti-oppression educator, activist, author, and spiritual director with 20 years experience designing and facilitating transformational group process. Melanie is passionate about working with individuals and organizations to better understand the connections between systemic oppressions and to nurture authentic relationship across differences such as race, age, gender, abilities, and sexual orientation. She believes it is possible to grow ever more aware of the depth and complexity of injustice without surrendering our capacity for compassion, joy, and hope.
Allies for Change provides anti-oppression education, training, and resources for individuals and organizations committed to social change. Believing that justice work is deeply spiritual work, our programs invite participants to sharpen their tools for structural change while enlarging their capacities for compassion, hope, and joy. To inquire about partial scholarships, call (989) 855-2277 or e-mail: melaniemorrison@alliesforchange.org. To register for Staying Power: http://www.alliesforchange.org/stayingpower.html
The Leaven Center in Lyons, Michigan is midway between Lansing and Grand Rapids. The main floor of the Lodge and Guest House are barrier-free. The center is located on 25 beautiful acres of land and the meeting room in the Lodge faces the Grand River (www.leaven.org).