SISTERS RISE

By- Kusum Crimmel, Clinical Program Manager 

RJOY has a new weekly circle that started August 7th and we are super excited about it, especially after the first powerful session!  The circle is for female identified people who are involved in or who have been in abusive, violent and/ or manipulative dynamics in relationships.  It is a community healing space.  A circle of support for participants to learn, grow and build trust across similarities and differences. If this sounds like a circle that could benefit your life, we would LOVE to have you join us.  It happens every Wednesday from 5:30-7.  We will have food provided and if there is need for childcare, we need a request at least 2 days in advance to make sure it’s available.  If you do have childcare needs, please e-mail: kusum@rjoyoakland.org

This weekly circle is a part of a larger program within RJOY that focuses on healing and transformation from intimate partner violence and domestic violence.  This doesn’t just mean physical violence.  Many people have been in or are currently involved in relationships where there is mental and emotional abuse, intimidation and manipulation or the threat of violence and living in fear.  For many, it’s hard to talk to other people about these relationships.  We can become isolated and embarrassed or we may even lose connections with friends and family because of these relationships.  Shame grows in solitude.  When we are able to share our stories and our struggles with people who we have built trust with, the shame begins to break apart and we can take steps towards our own healing and choosing self love.  If a group isn’t something that feels safe or comfortable, we are also working with people in one on one sessions of support.  These one on one sessions are for anyone, regardless of gender or whether someone is the recipient of abuse and violence or if they have caused harm in relationships.  You can see a list of our circles here and if you are in need of more support please fill out the intake form for Ubuntu Mental Health Program.

This work is happening due to the generous support of Blue Shield.  RJOY is engaged in a statewide collaboration of organizations utilizing restorative justice practices with healing work to support people and families who have been impacted by intimate partner violence, also known as domestic violence.  We believe there should be more opportunities to heal and engage in accountability work that doesn’t involve the police or the prison system and we are committed to supporting people and families who are interested in utilizing restorative justice processes to support their healing and accountability.  If you or someone you know has been impacted by intimate partner violence or domestic violence, whether they/you have been the person causing the harm or the recipient of the harm, we want to support you/ them.  Reach out to us and take the steps towards healing, accountability and transformation. You are not alone.  We are here to walk this path with you. Reach out: Norma Ward, norma@rjoyoakland.org or Kusum Crimmel, kusum@rjoyoakland.org