Healing our whole selves through nature

Reclaiming the outdoors as a safe space for ALL

Resisting violence against Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities (BIPOC) through restorative recreation

EVENT DETAILS

Saturday, September 19th, 12pm to 4pm at Lake Pickerel (Lilydale Regional Park, 550 Lilydale Rd.)

Event schedule

• 12 pm Dakota Honor Song

• 12, 1, & 2 pm Stations: fishing, birding, kayaking, art & poetry, nature walk & meditation

• 3 pm Healing Circle 

Event description

We know that joy is a form of resistance. In the midst of the uprisings against racial injustice, we’re coming together in Lilydale – a place with a long history of police violence against Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities on the West Side – to spend time outdoors in community and reclaim a space that has been used for harm through joy and recreation.

The natural world should be a safe space for all West Siders. Time outside is critical to our mental, physical, and spiritual health. Our Recreation as Resistance event will include free mini-workshops and activities, including fishing, birding, kayaking, a nature walk, a community mural, a "Poetree", and more. We'll finish our restorative morning with a Healing Circle, led by Dr. raj and with testimony from community members.

This event is open to all people, including families. We will be centering the voices, experiences, and stories of those most harmed. Coffee, juice, and snacks will be provided. Masks and social distancing are required. A port-o-potty will be on site. Please email Ellie Leonardsmith with questions, [email protected].