ROOTED AND RISING

For the better part of two decades, we encountered people who were forcibly displaced by conflict, violence, and persecution, including refugees who sought safety across national borders. Against their deepest hopes, they were forced to leave their homes, countries, and sometimes even their families. These friends have inspired us. Our lives are better for knowing them.

Several years ago, with a team of former refugees, or “New Americans,” Belinda facilitated the creation of Circles of Support, a trauma healing curriculum for refugee communities in partnership with a local nonprofit, Treetops Collective. Since its launch, Circles of Support has been published into 13 languages and is being used by multiple organizations. Earlier this year, we began facilitating the creation of Rooted and Rising, a research-based curriculum, in partnership with three communities – Congolese, Iranian and Afghan. The curriculum is distinguished by its participatory approach: it is facilitated by, and with, New Americans.

The focus of the curriculum involves meaning making and storytelling. When people who are traumatized share — and, over time, reframe — their stories, they not only heal physically, they experience resilience and growth. Rooted and Rising helps people reclaim their stories, strengthen their emotional well-being, and create belonging in their communities.

Turns out strength begins with story.