When one looks at a feather, we can see a pointed end which became dislodged for some reason. In Native American culture, the feather is considered a gift from the sky and symbolizes, just to name a few: trust, strength and freedom. It is our hope to navigate crumbling beliefs of people of color, indigenous communities and oppressive systems; shedding light on information that can be used to enhance the lives of our attendees by building trust and breaking down barriers, bringing forth unity and power.

White Feather meaning “Power.” Teaching Native American Religious Traditions: Missing Persons & Silent Scripts, Churchill, Journal in Feminist Studies of Religion, 32.1126

"When acquiring knowledge essential to personal growth, tasks that were once heavy can become as light as feathers."

The White Feather Educational & Historical Project is a series of workshops and activities hosted by Trinity Episcopal Church in Charlottesville, Virginia -- made possible earlier by the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation's Heal Charlottesville Fund. We presently rely on donations from various organizations and the community at large. The project aspires to enhance cultural responses of others by openly discussing historical oppression and its harmful implications. We will discuss privilege, power, and control - topics related to discrimination, including the impact of desegregation.

We will seek to enlighten those who are unaware of past historical oppressions that contribute to our city’s present situation. Our goal is to create an environment that affords all people a space to discuss the sources of subjugation, oppression, and systemic coercion without repercussions, judgements, or misinterpretations. We seek to create among all who participate understanding and peaceful coexistence.

WORKSHOP STRUCTURE

Each event will allot time to discuss historical trauma. Historical truth has rarely been told. When we discuss ‘why,’ we will gain some perspective of ‘what’ can cause anger, disappointment, and resentment within communities. Once historical injustices are revealed; understanding, compassion and love can prevail.

Understanding our history enlightens our future. Peaceful coexistence is always our best alternative. The relationships that were established through the CACF grant will continue far into the future and will assist other community projects to enhance their perspectives.

GOALS

• Promote awareness pertaining to the strengths and needs of people of color as they describe themselves.

• Provide a safe space to self-reflect and engage in difficult conversations beyond the hierarchy of “might” means “right”.

• Allow participants to speak thoughtfully in discussions to negate the intentional need to homogenize others speech, perspective or ideals.

• To assist with healing among those who choose to participate in our events.

• Redefine the definition of African American Community (as described by African Americans).

STAFF

WFH&E PROJECT LEADERSHIP TEAM