Circles In Da Hood is a folklife centered Participatory Action Research Project facilitated by Laura Ramirez, Kimiya Factory and Madelein Santibanez. Circles build capacity for young leaders to develop a healing justice analysis and embody the radical love needed to create and sustain collective wellness spaces in their homes and communities. This project takes place in occupied Somi S’ek territories, commonly known as San Antonio, Texas. 

In a city with systemic over-policing that disproportionately impacts youth of color, Circles In Da Hood reimagines how social relationships are woven into the fabric of our community to create alternative patterns of accountability and care. 

Circles are rooted in the wisdom of nature, indigenous human experience, with no beginning or end. Circles create a space for people to contribute the wisdom of their lives experience, and listen, learn, grow and heal within a shared brave space. Documenting our process was a key aspect of our project. It’s what folklife is all about.

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