In November we held the first Rooting out Racism, a two-day immersive anti-racism training that is intentional, real and dynamic.  This training is anchored in the transformative power of people who work in social service and advocacy organizations. Grounded in anti-racist praxis, arts, and culture, this training creates shared knowledge, a common framework, and embodied experiences that support the collective reimagining and reshaping of non-profits in the DC area.  

We hold the belief that everyone who enters this training is a critical player in the dance of transformation.  Participants felt their value and brought their full and vibrant selves.     

We intentionally curated space, so that people who entered felt seen and drawn in.  My old love of visual displays and felt-sense of a space came to life again. It mixed with Brittney’s brilliant artistic talent and Micaiah’s joyful spirit and together we designed the space. 

We created the container for the training by reading Micky Scottbey-Jones poem, Invitation to Brave Space, reflecting on what we need to make this our brave space.  “Amplifying the voices of those who fight to be heard elsewhere… Turn down the volume of the outside world… Calling each other to more truth and love.”

We start and end each day with poetry.  We fill the room with art materials and toys for tinkering. Music is pumping through the space giving energy at poignant moments. We gather in circle, create art, and use movement, engaging our minds, bodies, emotions and imaginations.