“There is power in our rest and in our ability to slow down for the sake of collective healing and mourning. It's time to rest.” – The Nap Ministry

Facts show us that in our society, womxn of color are the most deprived of rest. Historically, we've been the ones in positions of care and service. We've been the caregivers, the service providers, and the problem solvers. The age of COVID 19 has just amplified this critical work. And we're tired, still.

In the spirit of our WOCA Community Gatherings, and our series, Thriving!: Community and Self Care for Womxn of Color, WOCA is creating a virtual space where womxn of color can take a breath, be supported, and share stories of how rest can be a crucial force in sustaining us through these trying times. This gathering is about leaning into community as we collectively work to cope with the debilitating physical, mental, and emotional fatigue we regularly experience as womxn of color, now overwhelmingly compounded by our upended world. We hope to source some sustainable practices for our well-being, as well as, strategies for resilience.

It's this idea of productivity, which is fueled by the system of capitalism, that causes us to exert so much all.the.time and diminishes our ability for self-care. Productivity perpetuates capitalist values that often contradict our inherent ones, which, in turn, creates pure exhaustion. Nothing less can be said of these current times where we are now being asked to produce more, even as the system collapses around us. But one of the most productive things we can do right now is rest.

Framing our discussion will be the question: In these times of hyper-productivity, how have you given yourself permission to just rest?

A WORD

This space is open to WOCA members and all those that self-identify as womxn of color working in the arts. While we appreciate all authentic allies and accomplices, we ask that this gathering space remain exclusively for those that self-identify as womxn of color.

IN SERVICE TO WORKING MOMS + CAREGIVERS

We recognize that many are juggling work-from-home life, homeschooling, caring for elders, and putting out the fire of the day. In order to accommodate all caregivers, please feel comfortable in bringing your children to this community space. We know that you are carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders.

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Our virtual gathering will be held via the user-friendly Zoom, an online video conferencing platform. Because of privacy concerns, everyone will be asked to register in advance.