The 2012 Storytelling Circles

SATURDAY, May 19th, 2012

In April, we sat down in conversation with Erica Myers-Davis, author of the school history text, “Under One Flag”.  In that April session, we considered “black” history as “world” history, in the context of the practical example of how one woman has included into the British school history syllabus information about the contributions made to the WW2 war effort by colonised and ethnic peoples of the Commonwealth and Great Britain.

The central theme for that April discussion was: how do we make the histories of marginalised peoples available and how do we research, present, teach and learn those histories.  The theme remains the same for our May 19th conversation.  On May 19th, we will be joined by Dr Laura Brearely and Aunty Carolyn Briggs as we discuss the Practice of Indigenous Deep Listening.

Dr Laura Brearely facilitated the creation of a space for Indigenous students to pursue research and present their theses in ways best suited to indigenous knowledge forms.  She brings this wealth of knowledge to the table in conversation with Aunty Carolyn Briggs.

Aunty Carolyn Briggs is an Indigenous Elder of the Boonwurrung language group and member of the Yalikut Willam peoples of the Kulin Nation.  Throughout her life, she has been involved in projects to positively ensure the survival and renewal of indigenous culture and communities.  Presently, she is actively researching and participating in projects to restore language to her peoples through song and story and Aunty Carolyn also “teaches teachers how to teach”.  She founded the Boonwurrung Foundation which is involved in environmental work and cultural regeneration.

Saturday, APRIL 21st, 2012

In the lead up to ANZAC Day, we will consider the role played by ethnic and colonised peoples of the British Empire in WW2.  We are joined by Erica Myers-Davis who has written a primary school text that documents the personal histories and narratives of individuals who participated in the war effort.  Find out how Erica managed to get published, her research and writing process and the importance of such a text.

Check out our flier (with our brand spanking new logo!) stillwaters_flier_APRIL2012-3

… find out more about the school history text, “Under One Flag”, here …

FAQs

What is a ‘women’s storytelling circle’?

Basically, it is an opportunity for a woman or group of women who tell stories (writers, performers, poets, visual artists, dancers, musicians, academics etc) to present their story to an audience/a circle of people.

Are the storytelling circles ‘women only’ events?

No.  The Storytelling Circles are open to all ages and all genders.

We want everyone to participate in the storytelling circle.

The only rule is that the person/s presenting the story must be/identify as women.  So, in essence, women hold the space and set the intention for the discussion.

What is the purpose of the storytelling circle?

Apart for providing a platform for women to present their stories, the circles are an opportunity for the person/s presenting to receive positive feedback and constructive criticism from the audience.  The idea is that engagement with the community might provide the storyteller with fresh insight and new ideas to explore in their storytelling or to take their storytelling into new and bold directions.  As such, the circles are also an opportunity for community to gather and respectfully consider the issues at hand.  We welcome debate and dissent that is offered in the spirit of love and child-like curiosity and mutual support.

Does it cost to attend these sessions?

Yes.

You can purchase a 2012 season (April – November) pass at a discounted rate.  Email us at stillwaterswomen@gmail.com if you wish to find out more information about our entire 2012 series.

Otherwise, attendees pay for each session at these rates: $25 (waged), $15 (non-waged) or enter free (persons under 18 years of age).

The moneys earned will go towards paying the speakers – economic empowerment is a fundamental principle of Stillwaters Storytelling Collective.  In addition, moneys earned will cover the costs of organising and running the event (including the refreshments) and generating an income for Stillwaters Women’s Storytelling Collective.