MORE RECENT EVENTS
Kokhum's Gathering
​Frances and Robert had the pleasure of participating in a Kokhum's (Grandmothers) Gathering at Grand Rapids First Nation Cultural Camp, Aug. 16-18, 2024. Organized by the Interchurch Council on Hydropower, the event was an opportunity for women from hydro-impacted communities in Manitoba to reflect on the ongoing desecration of the earth, the water and all that live in the territory as a result of Manitoba Hydro's damming of northern rivers. Frances had the privilege of co-facilitating an arts-based activity with artist Theresa Wride from Flin Flon Manitoba. Robert was assigned the role of "paparazzi" to document the women's circles and art work.
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We loved our time at the gathering, in the presence of a powerful group of women: women who have been working hard as educators and activists to achieve justice and healing for the earth, the water, the elders and adults, and especially for the children and youth and all the generations to come.
Earthsong: Singing for Connection
From July 29th to August 2nd Frances Ravinsky from Community Works participated in Earthsong, a week-long singing camp for adults, held at United Church in Meadowood in Winnipeg. At this time of great anxiety about the destruction of the earth and all its inhabitants, participants were invited to explore their connection to the earth and to each other, and to express their fears and hopes for the future through song, art, storytelling, and music. Frances had the privilege of facilitating a daily storytelling circle where participants explored personal stories through oral storytelling, writing, and visual art. Much thanks to Caryn, Karen, Jeremy, and Evan from the organizing committee for this rich opportunity. Special thanks to Lynda Trono, organizer, climate activist and special friend for inviting me.
In July we had the pleasure of delivering the 2-day workshop CIRCLES OF CARE: Supporting Substance-involved Mothers in Pinomootang First Nation at Fairford, Manitoba.
Our thanks to Rose Offenloch, Community and Family Support Worker, for hosting (and feeding) us. The workshop concluded with participants creating 'quilts' about where they find healing.
My healing place by the river.
DEEP ROOTS, STRONG WINGS
Raising Resilient Children
In May 2014 we led a 2-day training workshop called Deep Roots, Strong Wings: Raising resilient children which, being over subscribed we repeated in June. Facilitator Frances Ravinsky blended teaching from Western knowledge traditions with reflection on participants' own experience as parents and caregivers, using personal stories, trust exercises and art
to elicit Indigenous wisdom and traditions relating to helping children and youth navigate today's challenges. The intimacy and safety of the sharing circle allowed for mutual support and hope to emerge along with grief (laughter and tears) over the course of tho days. Winnipeg's Mediation Services provided the space to meet, share teachings and stories, make art and enjoy good meals together.
A STORY EXCHANGE IN OUR ANSAR (HELPER) COMMUNITY
Professional Development through Reflective Practice
Also in May Frances Ravinsky from Community Works and Nilufer Rachman from Snow Angel Films were privileged to co-facilitate a reflective practice workshop with staff from Healthy Muslim Families. Quranic stories and stories from staff members’ own life journeys were used to invite staff to explore the forces that have shaped their lives as helpers. Stories were shared orally and through art. Nilufer and Frances will carry these stories with them, always. Much thanks to Humaira Jaleel and Amna Iqbal for inviting us into your ansar community.
