Healing Through Art, Finding Unity in Community
The world feels fractured…
The world feels fractured. The recent election has left many of us reeling, our hearts heavy with disappointment and anger. It's easy to feel divided, to turn against those who made choices that are a betrayal of our rights and values.
But healing isn't just about individual expression; it's about collective action and radical inclusivity. We must actively center and prioritize the voices and experiences of marginalized groups – Black women, Indigenous women, women of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those with disabilities.
These communities have historically been silenced, marginalized, and harmed by systems of oppression. It's our responsibility to create spaces where they feel safe, heard, and empowered. This means actively listening, amplifying their voices, and challenging our own biases and privileges.
We must stand in solidarity with those who are most vulnerable and fight for a world where everyone feels safe, respected, and free to express their authentic selves. My own journey with healing began long ago. As a young girl, I experienced abuse that left deep scars. My first marriage was a challenging chapter filled with pain and adversity. I have had to stay silent in my authenticity for safety.
These experiences left me feeling lost and broken. But through art, I found a way to process my trauma, to reclaim my voice, and to begin the long journey of healing.
Art became my refuge, a space where I could express the emotions that words couldn't contain. It was through painting, drawing, and creating that I began to piece myself back together, to find strength I didn't know I possessed.
Art can be a powerful catalyst for this healing process. It provides a language beyond words, a way to express emotions that feel too complex or overwhelming to articulate. Through art, we can tap into our inner strength, process our pain, and find solace in shared experiences.
For those who may not have access to therapy or other mental health resources, art can be an especially valuable tool for self-discovery and emotional processing. There's a low barrier to entry – all you need is a pen, a paintbrush, or any creative outlet that speaks to you.
But healing isn't just about individual expression; it's about collective action. We need to hold white men accountable for their role in upholding systems of oppression. We need to demand change, to use our voices and our creativity to advocate for a more just and equitable world.
Here are some resources to get you started:
Find and Contact Elected Officials
LGBTQIA+ Resource List
Indigenous Women Resources
Let's not allow anger and division to consume us. Let's channel our energy into creating, connecting, and healing together. Let's use art as a tool for transformation, both within ourselves and within our communities.
Because at the end of the day, we are stronger together. We are united in our pursuit of a world where every person ESPECIALLY marginalized groups can feel safe, empowered, and free.
