HOLIDAYS CAN BE HARD
On October 7th, the “KIM” world premiere was presented by WEAVE, Inc., an organization dedicated to bringing an end to sexual assault, domestic violence, and sex trafficking, in partnership with the ACE Resource Network and NumberStory.org, which supports actions that prevent adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). “KIM” tells the story of Kim Landle, a ballerina who after enduring a dangerous and abusive relationship, made it her mission to use her voice as a dancer to raise awareness about domestic violence and ignite conversations about love, abuse, and the strength to overcome.
Kim’s use of dance shows that art has the power to heal, inspire and provide hope. ACE Resource Network’s initiative Number Story launched a campaign called #MyArtStory to show that the arts are incredibly powerful tools for transforming how we see ourselves, each other, and the world around us. Through art, we can create, explore, and define our own meaning and purpose.
Scientific evidence is showing what humans have known for centuries and passed on through cultures and generations. Engaging in creative and expressive arts practices and activities can prevent and reduce the harmful impacts of trauma and childhood trauma. This includes growing up in a household with intimate partner violence (IPV). Exposure to IPV in childhood may become part of an intergenerational cycle of violence. However, children’s outcomes aren’t the only thing that matters – positive experiences can help protect and support them, and Kim’s leadership in educating young people about healthy relationships is part of what makes Kim an inspiring leader.
This October, in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we invite you to share the art that has been part of your healing journey. Express yourself in whatever way is comfortable. Movement, words, paint, singing, crayons – there’s no wrong way to create and use your voice.
Please share you art story on social media and tag @MyNumberStory and/or use the hashtag #MyArtStory.
If you are a victim of domestic violence and need help, call or chat the National Domestic Violence Hotline for free, 24/7. CALL: 1-800-799-7233 or CHAT: National Domestic Violence Hotline.
It’s that time of year again, and I am sure you have noticed how fast the Holiday season is taking over stores. For some, this can trigger the body and create stress or dread….
[Content warning: Suicide.]
In recent years, during the month of Pride, I’ve always been extremely excited about the celebration—the glittery and colorful extravagance all throughout the month of June.
However, this year, I’ve taken a pause to really understand my journey, the one I’ve taken individually and the one the queer community is on at the moment. I feel blessed to live in West Hollywood in Los Angeles, one of America’s queer-friendly meccas, though the sparkle in my heart has dimmed as I feel increasingly more concerned for my community across the country where our safety, protections and rights are all at risk. Unfortunately, none of us are safe.
I’ve lived with bipolar disorder for the last 13 years. Though the initial years were brutal, once I understood my triggers and what it takes to stay well, I’ve been privileged to have stayed healthy for much of the last decade. This included — to my relief — my first pregnancy and post-partum period and serving in high-intensity public health roles through the pandemic, as California’s Acting Surgeon General and previously the office’s first Chief Health Officer.
I love music. Recently, I was listening to a random playlist Spotify generated for me when a song titled “Before I Have A Daughter” by Bre Kennedy started playing. Bre Kennedy sings about building a garden that grows on the same ground where tears have fallen and hearts have also been broken. Her goal is to learn to tend to this garden so that it flourishes on both the good and bad days.
Help us with your feedback on this 3-question survey!
