This gathering will be held on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples–Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations.
In the depth of autumn, share and witness grief – personal, ancestral, collective, historical and/or present – in a community ceremony dedicated to people of colour. Many of us seldom have the chance to be open about our grief despite its sometimes immense presence in our lives. This ritual allows us to honour and own emotions that mainstream Western culture tries to hide and suppress, emotions that are rooted in our love and sense of justice for ourselves, our people, and our home and homeland(s). Many ancient cultures recognized the importance of collective grieving to the health of communities. Through the alchemy of grief practice, we build heart skills – compassion, humanity, resilience.
The Truth Circle is a guided ritual, held in confidence among participants. There is no requirement to speak; witnessing is a crucial and invaluable role here, and your attentive presence makes a difference. When we share and witness each other’s grief, it can transform in a profound way that is simply not possible in isolation.
The Truth Circle is part of the deeply moving and experiential work of deep ecologist and eco-philosopher Joanna Macy. The ritual emerged in 1992 to address the difficult reunification process between East and West Germany and has since been held all over the world.
Please note:
-Light refreshments provided
-Space is limited to 12 people
-Bring a journal, writing implement and water bottle
-Arrive on time or early. The door will be locked at 1:05pm to ensure privacy. Please do not message Elisa within an hour of the start time about your lateness as she will not be on her phone.
-We will be sitting on the floor. If you require back support and wish to be at floor level, please bring a low chair (eg. Therma-rest or Crazy Creek chair). There will be regular chairs available.
There is financial aid to support one individual. Please contact Elisa for details.
Additional dates:
Regular Grief Ritual – Nov 2 (please note different location)
Solstice Grief Ritual for the Earth – Dec 21