Creators of Peace (CoP)
JULY 2014 EDITION
“Global Connections” Newsletter for reporting the voluntary efforts of
women creating peace across the world’s divides
An international program of
Message from the International CoP President, Daphrose Ntarataze - Burundi I report this month on the ‘wealth’ of the CoP global network, that is not in money, but in ourselves, the peacemakers of the world, the bonus of our faith in humanity with which we are linked. Our qualities, talents, knowledge and skills with which we are committed to keep the flame of peace wherever we can. Even in countries at war like Syria where our CoP friend Iman AlGhafari struggles to sow seeds of peace in ruins and under rubble. Where does Iman draw the energy to do this? For me, Iman is an example of a woman whose courage and transformational leadership inspires me (us all) greatly.
imagine my model Facilitator Iman. As with all my fellow CoP Facilitators, we are inspired by desire to bring the best of ourselves, and give freely of our authenticity. We present ourselves ‘as I am’, which encourages our Circle participants to do the same. We confidently open ourselves to each other, sharing the ‘raw’ and the ‘cooked’, our joys and sorrows, our fears and our expectations. This matures and becomes peace initiatives and projects to put into practice, for our intrinsic selves and our community development.
To facilitate a CoP Circle is daring because we do not know the outcome in advance. But we’re driven by Inner Listening which gives us inner strength that we obey. Often we’re facilitating highly qualified women with high levels of responsibility, and (for me) African wisdom prohibits me to look into their eyes. Often people who have witnessed horrors we can’t concieve of. But we dare to call on their humanness in search of their ‘soul’ – never forgetting to be gentle, openhearted and To all my fellow CoP Facilitators, we are a team that respecting of their differences with dignity and a trustworthy heart. works in tandem with comradery and equal The CoP Circle is a place where we promote ‘la vie bonne’ - quoting compensation. When I facilitate CoP Circles in my Paul Ricoeur ‘...the path to a unified and meaningful life; indeed, to the Great Lakes Region, I walk with traumatized women good life .’ Below is my report in French……. from repeated conflicts, and I need inspiration, I
Mot de la présidente, Daphrose Ntarataze Barampama Mon mot porte sur le « trésor » de notre réseau mondial des Femmes AdP. Son capital est constitué, non pas d’argent, mais de notre foi à contribuer à la bonification de l’humanité dont nous sommes un maillon. Egalement de nos qualités, talents, connaissances et compétences, mis à contribution pour maintenir allumée la flamme de la paix partout où nous le pouvons. Même dans des situations difficiles à l’instar des pays en conflits comme en Syrie où notre amie Iman Al Ghafari se démène pour semer des graines de paix dans les ruines et sous les gravats. Où Iman puise-t-elle l’énergie pour tenir ? (Qu’Iman m’excuse de parler d’elle sans l’avoir consultée). Mais pour moi, elle est un modèle dont le courage et le leadership transformationnel m’inspirent
énormément. Nous autres facilitatrices formons une équipe qui agit en tandem, avec complicité et qui se supplée. Pour ma part, dans la Région des Grands-Lacs africains, où je chemine actuellement avec des personnes multitraumatisées par des conflits à répétition, je m’imagine et m’inspire d’Iman, mon modèle. Avec l'envie d'apporter le meilleur de nous-mêmes, nous laissons libre cours à notre authenticité. Notre naturel stimule celui des participants et nous tire mutuellement vers le haut, vers le meilleur. En toute confiance, nous nous ouvrons les uns aux autres, partageons le « cru et le cuit », partageons les joies et les peines, les peurs et les espoirs. Ces derniers mûrissent et se transforment en initiatives et projets de paix mise en pratique, pour notre paix et développement intrinsèques et communautaires. Faciliter un CdP, c'est doser se lancer dans une
aventure dont on ne connaît pas l'issue à l’avance. Mues par cette force intérieure, irrésistible, nous devons avancer avec des personnes qui me sont offertes. Quelques fois nous cheminons avec des gens plus âgés ou surdiplômés, ou avec de très hautes responsabilités, que la sagesse africaine nous interdirait de regarder dans les yeux. Mais aussi avec des personnes qui en ont vu et vécu, des mûrs et des pas mûrs. Toutes ces situations nous interpellent à doser certes pour ne pas blesser l’autre en respectant sa différence et sa dignité. Et avoir aussi le courage de prendre des initiatives et le surprendre « en bien » cet autre, qui, en toute confiance, nous a ouvert son cœur. Enfin et surtout, recourir fréquemment à cette source intérieure qui nous inspire, et nous souffle les moyens de mener le CdP en profondeur, comme cadre de promotion de la « vie bonne ».
Pathway to Becoming a Creators of Peace Facilitator by Shoshana Faire, International Coordinator - Programs Portfolio In order to uphold the ethos of Creators of Peace, the Programs Portfolio Team has taken on the challenge of defining a pathway to support CoP women around the world to become CoP Facilitators. This task arose from the need to set a standard so that CoP Circle Facilitators globally provide a consistent, safe, engaging space that upholds the essence and values of Creators of Peace. Our challenge is to provide this and at the same time to embrace the many different skills, experiences, wisdom and openheartedness that our facilitators and potential facilitators need, and often already bring, and the many varied situations of our Peace Circles. What we have produced is a set of guidelines that identifies the qualities that an effective CoP facilitator needs to have: Personal Qualities : such as being open and challenging oneself as a peace creator Knowledge: an understanding (with heart and mind) of the intent, essence and content of the CoP curriculum Skills: to create a safe space, inclusion and engagement of the participants and empowering them for future action. Steps to becoming a CoP Facilitator: Step 1: Participation in Peace Circle/s. Step 2: Facilitation training – skills development. Step 3: Practice – growing into the facilitator role with support. Step 4: Recognition as a CoP Co-Facilitator. Certificates will be given at the completion of the Facilitation Training (Level 1 Certificate) and on recognition of becoming a CoP Co-Facilitator (Level 2 Certificate) after a joint assessment process with a Lead Facilitator. The next steps on the pathway are to become a Lead Facilitator, (Level 3 Certificate) and then a Trainer of Facilitators. The Programs Portfolio Team are: Regina Morris (Malaysia), Ros Kennedy (Australia), Su Riddell (UK), Willemijn Lambert (The Netherlands), Shoshana Faire (Australia). To ask a question, or request a copy of the comprehensive document, email Shoshana shoshana@facilitators.net. Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE
Creators of Peace reflect on big issues in the Solomon Islands (Editor’s note: Rachel Abi Gina, CoP National Coordinator for Solomon Islands, has been working with CoP Circles in the Solomon Islands since 2009 with women from islands spread across many miles of ocean, each with their own language groups and cultures, which is no mean feat. It means she has had to take time out from her clerical work in the capital Honiara, and travel by boat taking most of the supplies needed, as many women do not have access to basics such as pens and paper in their own communities. In recent months The Solomons has been recovering from major earthquake and flood damage which has added to her challenges. This two day CoP Circle took place in 2013 on the island of Gizo, an hour’s flight from Honiara. This is Rachel’s report: Twelve participants attended , a good number from communities where there are many issues to be addressed. Most times these are neglected and just passed by without resolution. Issues such as domestic violence, alcohol and drugs, coping with the consequences of logging and mining companies where many girls and women are physically and sexually abused. And then there’s the big problem of land disputes which is one of the main issues in these communities. So the women who came were privileged to have had the chance to share their stories and reflect on these issues. Women in rural areas think that they can do little to change these things, but they learned that they could do something to make a difference both in their own families and their communities. Everyday issues surround us in every situation but we all have the potential to create peace. They were able to identity the issues and needs in their villages, recognising there was lots of work to be done, but also that they had the heart and innate ability to do it. The women strongly emphasised their confidence to implement solutions to these issues in their areas. The workshop concluded with the message that the choice is ours and we each have a part to play, realising that peace is the key to maintaining good relationships with each other, and in creating an environment which we will always want to live in and cherish. The CoP Circle process was new to these women, but I feel confident that the outcome was successful and will really benefit them. “To facilitate these CoP Circles, I have to take leave from my job, but I am committed to helping my people. There are a lot of communities in the rural areas still to be reached and financial restraints and lack of support is a stumbling block to our moving ahead. Thank you for the prayers and heart of support from other parts of the world.” by Rachel Abi Gina
CoP women in New Zealand joins the rally to #BringBackOurGirls Jennifer Hammond, CoP National Coordinator for New Zealand, reported that on 14 May 2014, Creators of Peace women joined together with Change-A-Life Nigeria, to march with 100 plus people asking the New Zealand government to add its voice to the global call for the Nigerian government to #BringBackOurGirls. The march took place through the streets of the capital city of Wellington and ended up at Parliament House where 276 female high school students also joined to ask the New Zealand government to engage in the issue.
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CoP Circles builds trust in Romania by Diana Damsa & Diana Topan A fourth CoP Circle has taken place in Romania (Baia Mare) from 25 -27 April, 2014. Ten women, aged 16 to 43, engaged in peace conversation facilitated by Willemijn Lambert from The Netherlands and Simona Toroţcoi from Romania. The regional ethnic diversity was illustrated by having present in the room women of the Romanian, Roma, and Hungarian ethnicities. This CoP Circle was part of a series of activities led by the Initiatives of Change team in Baia Mare with the aim of Photos by Diana Topan & Andrei Cîmpan bringing together and building trust between different ethnic groups that live alongside each other in the area. We were proud to be supported in this activity by two men who agreed to be our cooks while the ladies were hard at work in the sessions. We are also thankful to the other two ladies, alumni of previous CoP Circles in Baia Mare, who helped with cooking and serving our meals. Three weeks after completing this CoP Circle, participants gathered to evaluate their experience and to think about the next steps together as members of the international network of Creators of Peace women. One lady confessed that she was at a turning point in her life and a decision needed to be taken. During the CoP Circle she felt empowered and supported, and found the power to take a new direction in her life. Another Photos by Diana Topan & Andrei Cîmpan participant reflected more on human nature: 'We take kindness for granted. If someone does something bad to you, you easily say: How could you do that to me? But how many times do we ask the same question when we receive acts of kindness?' Forgiveness was one of the most powerful sessions which people referred to because it applies in the lives of everyone. Some other participants took the very practical tools into everyday living: 'One question raised during the CoP Circle stuck with me. ‘Now each time I am about to do something I ask myself: By engaging in this action, am I going to build or destroy peace?' There is now a general feeling of a renewed momentum for the CoP work in the region. A few more circles are planned for this autumn and monthly meetings of CoP alumni were scheduled with the aim of growing together as a force for positive change in the local community.
Creators of Peace is currently in 43 countries. To meet an ever growing call for CoP Circles around the globe, the CoP Circle Facilitator’s Manual has, to date, been translated from English into French, Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish, Kirundi, Arabic, Swedish and Chinese. Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE
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Creators of Peace Circle in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia by Indira Haridas Nair Over a weekend in May 2014, it was a time of self discovery for ten women who gathered for a CoP Circle in Tia’s home located in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. We were a group comprising all ages, communities and with varied professional experiences. We had those who worked with women from economic and socially disadvantaged backgrounds, those who sought to inspire young people and communities, those who campaigned for the betterment of the environment, animal rights, as well as child protection, along with those who worked in the corporate sector as well as committed mothers. We forgot the time as we laughed, shared
As we said our goodbyes, our hugs were be happy and this will have a positive effect tighter than ever as a promise to be friends on the people around us. for life. Coming from a corporate background and Below are extracts from some of our having worked in a few organizations, I have personal peace statements we each made to come across many instances where because take home with us: of greed for power, money and fame, there were many lives affected and peace was ‘Peace arises from unconditional love in being disrupted. By having fair and ethical oneself that grows and connects individuals workplaces, I believe many lives will be to achieve harmony and unity collectively.’ improved. In a way, how I see myself being ‘The harsh world that we live in today does part of safeguarding my workplace is to not permit the nurturing of Peace. It is ever ensure that unfair situations and unethical practices are being elusive and made to seem like an ideal that b u s i n e s s addressed.’ (Wei Hoong) is unattainable. Most of us have become distanced from this ideal by our own inaction. We grow comfortable in discord and indirectly contribute to chaos. It is a collective 'forgetting'. Our essential selves know Peace to be a birth right.
I enjoyed being with our sisters of peace makers for that two memorable days. I felt that I have long missed that true, simple understanding of what friendship truly means regardless of faith, creed or colour even race and nations. (Sister Suraya)
The CoP Circle provided that safe space and loving guidance to 'remember' our essence. I gained immensely from it and look forward to incorporating what I learnt in my daily life despite the inherent existing challenges.’ (Janarthani) deeply, and expressed ourselves through ‘The CoP Circle is very important for every creative art, role playing, singing and most mother because a family institution is the importantly understanding and loving one place where initial peace begins. A woman another. At each gathering point we created a silent sacred space for deep reflection to look deeply within, allowing ourselves to experience the peace within. We were also able to take this experience back with us as we continued on our journey of life after each gathering.
*Silent moments every morning. *Love myself. *Be mindful of my thoughts and words. (Bertha)
During the Forgiveness gathering point, one of the concerns that came up was ‘how has forgiveness at a personal level had bearing on the social and international level.’ We learned of the story of Irene Laure from France reconciling France and Germany after the second world war as well as stories of other peace creators like Didacienne Mukahabeshimana from Rwanda who began to help the perpetrators of the genocide to re -build her nation. This helped us to reflect on this very important key to creating peace in a world full of conflict where 33 million people are displaced to this date.
needs to be at peace herself and understand how crucial peace is at home so she can shape the members of her family - she is the first teacher for her children.’ (Siti) ‘I learnt that peace comes from within and by being present and fully living in the moment without having to worry about the future and carrying the burden of the past, we can truly
*I will think positive rather than act reactionary. *I will maintain peace in my heart by whispering peace everyday. (Lindu) ‘I have realised that reflecting is a very effective way to gain internal peace. It also matters if we have strong faith with the Lord (regardless the religion) internal peace is much easier to find if we trust in Him.’ (Therese) ‘During my first CoP Circle last year, I learnt to look within myself for solutions to challenges, and learnt that peace does begin with me! This year, one of the most powerful sessions for me was on forgiveness. Despite the challenges that I faced trying to put forgiveness into practice, I tried very hard to do so. This year, experiencing the session again gave me a deeper realization that, often it is easier to practice forgiveness towards others. The biggest challenge when putting forgiveness into practice is learning how to forgive myself. I am reminded that in order to really be at peace, it is important that I learn to forgive myself and to love myself. I hope to put this into practice in my life.’ (Thency)
Calgary University interns collaborate with IofC on CoP Circle
by Janyce Konkin A dynamic group of second interns from the University of Calgary’s Community Service Learning Project gathered 14-15 March 2014 to participate in a CoP Circle co-facilitated by Judy Parker and Janyce Konkin - IofC’s Regional Projects Coordinator in Alberta. The Circle offered practical experience for these students to complement their course on “Critical Perspectives on Development Practice and Research”. Feedback from the 15 participants revealed that overall they felt very comfortable in sharing their stories and perspectives. The session included the new IofC documentary Beyond Forgiving which deeply touched the participants. By the end of the weekend participants felt more in tune with their inner peacemaking capabilities and had a greater sense of community, empowerment, and inspiration. They reported feeling transformed, having gained a greater understanding of what peace truly is, their personal role in building peace and sensed a heightened hope in humanity. “This is a very exciting process that is helping us to reconnect with university age youth,” Janyce said. Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE
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Creators of Peace Circles in Kenya are “...simply transformative” Thanks to the support of the Friends of Africa fund, CoP Circles are reaching out to more and more women (and some men) who are ready to be at the forefront to bring peace to Kenya. Below are reports of some inspiring outcomes from just a few of many CoP Circles in Kenya: Two CoP Circles took place in two areas within Nakuru County, Kenya. “Enough is enough, it’s time we took charge and change this community ourselves.” Those are the words uttered by the women of Naivasha, Kenya, during a recent CoP Circle that took place there. The 3-day workshop ran 10-12 February 2014, with 20 participants (five of which were men). The inclusion of men in the circle was due to the many requests from previous Circles to have male participants. The women insisted that if their husbands could be allowed to attend the Circles, things would be much better in terms of creating peace in the family and that they too (men), could be able to spread peace in the ‘maskani’ (meeting joints). Indeed it proved awesome having them amidst the women and having them share their experiences. Naivasha is among the hotspot areas in Kenya where even a small wrong move would trigger massive violence and damage. This has been witnessed in the past, during the 2007/2008 post election violence. Even after that, there has been the issue of land for pasture for the Maasai pastoralists and the farmers who want the same land for farming. The area being cosmopolitan, we therefore hoped that a CoP Circle would enhance self healing, acceptance, forgiveness and reconciliation which would enable the communities there to coexist peacefully and harmoniously. The participants were taken through moments of quiet time and reflections for self connection, correction and direction that helped many to acknowledge their contributions to the problems (conflicts), learn to apologise, forgive and embrace each other to live in harmony. ‘I use to be a very bitter person and actually forgiveness to me was a vocabulary. An eye for an eye was the way to go all my life but now I’m feeling touched and convinced that forgiveness is the path to healing. I have learnt communication puts issues on the table and enables people to talk about it and get solutions’, said Elizabeth, one of the participants. Isaac, a community worker also said, ‘I work with the community and most of my work involves listening to people. I never knew that I was a poor listener until this. Now,
from today, I commit myself to listening fully person. Hasira ni hasara (anger is loss), anger before saying anything, judging or giving is destructive and never constructive. I am now advice’. living peacefully with my family and neighbours. I am so grateful for the training’, The Peace Ambassadors - Mai Mahiu she added. Another amazing CoP Circle experience was run over 3 days in Mai Mahiu town between For Sarah, what got into her heart is the Naivasha and Narok towns. This CoP Circle importance of listening without interruption. brought together 17 women from different ‘I never used to listen to anyone, but now I will locations of the town and even had two from be listening to people and not interrupt,’ she said. And for Mueni the workshop and the Maasai community. particularly the story-sharing gave her an Just like Naivasha, Mai Mahiu also has issues opportunity to let go of burdens she has between the Maasai that borders with Narok been carrying in her heart for years. ‘I feel and the other tribes in the area. This is more energized. I will go and share with my because the Maasai need the land for their friends about the power of story sharing. I animals’ pastures while the other have never shared my story with anyone and I communities need it for farming. Like most have continued hurting for a long time. I am parts of Kenya, this area was also affected by now a free person.’ the last general election violence. Many participants appreciated the moments The women shared passionately of their of silence and reflection. Harun, a male personal experiences. As usual, we created participant was no different. He said, ‘The time for each participant to share their most inspiring topic for me was reflection stories if they have the courage to do it. This and listening to others. I never regarded it experience, though not therapy by itself, has as important, but seeing it being practiced a very therapeutic effect. Each participant’s has changed my thoughts. I have learnt story is different, unique, important and that reflection can give direction to one’s special in its own way. life.’ One of the participants, 52 year old Hannah, shared her story of hurtful childhood experiences and painful memories that left everyone with wet eyes. After sharing, she said that “I have lived a bitter life because I knew no one ever cared for me. I have never shared this with anyone in all of my 50 something years because I knew no one would even listen to me. I am so glad that this forum came, I feel like it came just for me. I am feeling relieved in my heart that This workshop was facilitated by Annie Gitu you created time and offered ears to listen & Rose Njeri. to me. I have never thought I could ever Simply Transformative- that is CoP forgive my family, but now, after this My home has totally workshop, I will go to my mother’s place and Peace Circles! changed for good after my husband and I make peace with her. took part. If more people are taken through Report by Annie Gitu and Esther Inzekellah this program, Kenya will become a safe Hasira ni Hasara ...peace is the way! place’ said Jane, one of the 21 participants ‘I wrote a letter of forgiveness to my (five being men) who participated in a CoP husband. He couldn’t believe that I had Circle in Kuresoi North constituency, Nakuru actually forgiven him and he has changed a County from 22 to 24 May, 2014. lot since then,’ said Esther after she Gerald, a male participant, expressed that it attended the CoP Circle for 19 participants had been a transformative experience. The (three were men) in April, 2014 in Kabazi three days were more productive than all area. She concluded, ‘My family has now other workshops he’d ever attended. ‘I got been totally transformed and become peaceful to know myself! I have been full of myself- it and happy. I am so grateful for the CoP has all been Myself, Me and I. I hated people Circle.’ CoP has continued to reach out to looking down on me, but in the workshop- I people in different wards of Nakuru County actually realized that I am the one who in Kenya. looks down on people’ he said. ‘Men are Kerubo was a happy participant after actually a big problem, they need this attending a CoP Circle and later when we training’ he added. called her to check on how she was doing, As usual, the topic of Forgiveness was a she had this to say; ‘I am now a different highlight in the workshop. Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE
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Rainer Gude, IofC International’s Geneva representative, writes on his findings in Africa: ."My whole life I have felt Africa's call and finally I was able to answer. My first visit to the continent was to Burundi and Kenya in May 2014. The purpose was to experience and better understand the work of the national IofC teams, so as to bring their powerful stories to the policy makers in the UN and other Geneva-based organisations. I had already heard a lot about (and been able to help a little from afar) the IofC teams in both countries, but the warm welcome and inspiring work exceeded my expectations. I found teams - and indeed countries - full of life and resilient people determined to work for change whatever size the challenge. .
In Burundi I saw how IofC's long-term work has reached far into the fabric of politics and is also inspiring a new generation of young Burundians. I took part in a powerful ‘Creators of Peace Circle’ in the central city of Gitega. I was struck by the feeling that this small gathering held in a tent in rural Burundi was no less important than any peace conference I had witnessed in Geneva. Realizing how much all the IofC teams have to learn from one another, I began to dream of new ways of harnessing their knowledge and wisdom. I left knowing that I would receive more than I could give, but my debt to Africa and to these teams is immeasurable.
Sydney Creators of Peace plan for 2014 Over 2 Planning Sessions in January and February 2014, 20 CoP women met to reflect on how to advance CoP in 2014. To help us look ‘outside the box’, we invited a professional facilitator, Sharon McGann, to help us share what was on our hearts for CoP, and brainstorm new ideas. It quickly became evident that our primary focus this year will be to answer the call of our network for ‘what next after a CoP Circle’? The following ACTION GROUPS were formed and are now in motion in Sydney for 2014: INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS: Develop a master CoP Sydney database. Inform the Sydney network via a Calendar of Events. EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS: Develop CoP printed promotional material Find PR opportunities FACILITATOR DEVELOPMENT: Provide Facilitation Training as needed CREATORS OF PEACE CIRLCES: Initiate CoP Circles in all areas of Sydney AUBURN CoP NETWORK: Network with Auburn’s large multicultural refugee community. Support the already well established CoP program of regular monthly CoP gatherings. REGULAR CoP GATHERINGS: Provide ongoing connection with CoP network in all regions of Sydney, through regular gatherings on topics to deepen CoP understanding and to ‘put peace into practice’. ANNUAL CoP REUNION/CELEBRATION: Plan and coordinate this annual event to showcase our progress over the year, and unite and celebrate the efforts of the Sydney CoP network. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Look out for events aligned with the CoP ethos, with a view to connect, support and possible partner with. CAG (Coordinating Action Group): A dedicated group who meet monthly on Skype to monitor how each Action Group are progressing, and to mentor and assist if necessary, and contribute to events.
CoP women deepen the practice in Malaysia by Regina Morris
On the public holiday weekend in June, ten CoP alumni women gathered for a two hour follow-up session to deepen the practice, reflecting on the theme “Are you a Creator or Destroyer of Peace?” To run it a little differently, we chose to use the Johari Window Model as the basis of our discussion. We selected from a set of adjectives to describe our own traits and chose some for the others in the group. After mapping it onto the four quadrants, we discussed what the spread of the traits meant to us. Some expressed surprise at some of the insights while others took it as raising self awareness on one’s traits and how they contribute towards being a peacemaker or otherwise. There was sharing on how we might develop some of the traits to become more open, aware and available for others in our development as peacemakers. Over some tea and cake and lots of laughter, everyone agreed that we need more of such a space made available for women. There was good energy among all those who attended and a joyful bond was forged.
Meaningful outcomes from a CoP Circle in Brazil The latest CoP Circle in Brazil was held over three consecutive days in June. This CoP Circle helped build a "circle of trust" among all women involved, both the facilitators and participants. Not only during the preparation but also in their participation, the facilitators were able to focus on their concerns and the origin of some of their actions, committing themselves to solve them. By the facilitators sharing as they led, the participants were able to reflect about themselves and find their own resentments or guilt to work on in their quest for inner peace. Moreover, the fact that each of the participants were able to face up to the reality of their past or present courageously, was the best fruit obtained in this CoP Circle.
Vera, María Cristina and Leonora
Sydney CoP 2014 Planning Session
DO YOU want to train to be a CoP Facilitator? It is with great excitement that we announce a date has been set for a CoP Facilitation Training in Scandinavia August 22-24. It will be facilitated by Willemijn Lambert (The Netherlands) and Shoshana Faire (Australia). I you want to attend this training, or want training anywhere around the world, please email Shoshana: shoshanafaire@facilitators.net
One person’s way of giving heartfelt care while maintaining Self Care By Trish McDonald-Harrison CoP People Care Portfolio Working Group I asked Helena Salazar of Colombia “How do you support people, yet take responsibility for your own self-care?” Helena: “I see my role is to “walk beside them” in their anguish - not try to take ‘their load’ away from them, as that is not helpful to them and may even be destructive to their longer term wellbeing.” “I use questions to support them to find their own answers and encourage their belief in themselves, and that God has a plan for them, as for everyone. This way, they learn that they can rely on themselves and God – and become strong and confident in that knowledge.”
Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE
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A CoP Circle at the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPACS), Sydney University by Shoshana Faire Co founder-Conflict Resolution Network, International Coordinator for CoP and Patricia Garcia–Visiting Scholar at CPACS and CoP Facilitator The weekend of 1-2 March saw a Creators of Patricia Garcia facilitated the circle, actively Peace Circle come together for the first time supported by Dr. Wendy Lambourne the at the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies Centre’s Deputy Director. at Sydney University. The circle was held in The session went over two full days plus an evening 3 weeks later. We covered various topics known as ‘gathering points’ which generated stimulating conversations and exploration about our understanding and experience of peace. Included were: What is peace? What builds and what destroys peace? Qualities of a peacemaker, Inner peace, Listening, Inner listening and Forgiveness. Sharing our personal stories in an atmosphere of trust and respect was the highlight for many of the group with timely the Posters of Peace Gallery where, moments of silence and reflection sparking a surrounded by the faces of well known peace light on our inner life and our insights about makers and posters of major peace events, peace. we took the time to explore our selves as peacemakers and what it means to be a It was a very different experience from that peace maker in our own lives and in our own which the participants have experienced to communities. date in their peace studies. Some of the things said at the end were “Much more Most of the 10 participants were post personal and real”, “We had the opportunity graduate students and academic staff of to resolve our own issues and look at CPACS. We brought a diverse mix of cultures practising inner peace”, “we experienced how and religions with participants from to develop deep trust and connection”, “a Afghanistan, Kenya, Nepal, Philippines, wonderful forum to explore the inner peace Taiwan, and Australia. and connect with people. The depth of Although Creators of Peace is a program connection evident among us despite our created for women, it was decided to open varied backgrounds was particularly this circle to both women and men. We had inspiring. one male participant. Shoshana Faire and “The Creators of Peace Circle brought
“One innovative and creative peace-building tool is the CoP Circle,” says Patricia Garcia. Having spent the last 25 years working as a humanitarian aid worker in many of the world’s violent and protracted conflicts during the 1990’s such as Sudan, Rwanda, Bosnia, Burma and Kosovo and in Afghanistan from 2002 2007, I often reflect on my experiences. Especially after witnessing systematic armed violence and untold suffering of men, women and children mostly as refugees forcibly displaced and uprooted from their homes and their place of origin. As a humanitarian worker my aim was to assist primarily with the basic needs of refugees and displaced people including the provision of food, water, shelter and health care, where women play a dominant role in the delivery of these life-saving services. Yet women’s voices were often not heard. When it came to community meetings and discussions between relief agencies and refugees to try to understand their needs and the context and complexity of their situation, their different experiences were often dismissed. On my return from an assignment in Darfur Sudan in late 2012 I decided to do research study in peace and dialogue work. I have been learning about civil society and grass-roots peace-building strategies as a Visiting Scholar at the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies. I’m particularly interested in creative peace-building tools that support peace and dialogue with conflict affected communities.
together the most extraordinary group I have encountered in a long time. Their stories made you either want to cheer, gasp in awe, or cry.’ ‘Many things I have only read about – from cyclones, wars, political suppression, forced marriage, indoctrination at school, and walking miles barefoot to school came alive as people’s personal life stories and experience unfolded. Experiencing the real person in each other was at the core.’ ‘My whole life I've been told I'm a bad listener, and as a Journalist, that's a very bad thing to be. But at the peace circle we had fun exercises to practice better listening and we learned why it was so important. The secure atmosphere allowed me to see and admit to what I was doing that made me such an ineffective listener. It really opened my eyes! I will bring the lessons and inspiration from those precious two days with me for the rest of my life. I am hoping now to not just be a better journalist but to be a better daughter, sister, partner or friend to everyone around me.’ In a world today where we are living with so many pressing needs and world concerns, our Creators of Peace Circle provided a haven and a safe space for each of us to look in and look out, to listen, reflect and find personal ways to engage in creating peace.
One innovative and creative peace-building tool is the CoP Circle. I vividly recall my encounters with women from Afghanistan, Bosnia, Burma and Sudan and their personal stories of struggle, of flight and their loss of family and their emotional strength, physical stamina and resilience to overcome their situation and start a new life in a new place with foreign customs and language, with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. Sharing their remarkable stories of fleeing armed violence and survival was a personally humbling experience and made me realise as a humanitarian worker the importance and value of spending time with the women, to listen with empathy and to create conditions that give ‘voice’ and ‘space’ to the women and to allow them to speak from a ‘different’ place. This is a first step if we are to build peace and dialogue. The CoP Circles illustrate the power of women finding their voices for peace. It is an example of an effective grass roots tool for building peace and community dialogue. It is also a clear, simple and transformative example of putting peace into practice by engaging women as members of the community in the process of dialogue and development. I participated in my first CoP Circle in Nov 2012 in Sydney. I was so inspired by the CoP Circle experience that I suggested to the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies ( CPACS) at the University of Sydney to conduct a CoP Circle for the academic staff and students at the CPACS. The Acting Director of CPACS Dr. Wendy Lambourne supported this idea and in March 2014 the first CoP circle took place at the CPACS University of Sydney with Shoshana Faire as Facilitator and myself, Patricia Garcia, as Co-Facilitator. Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
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Trust built between young women of Crimea by Anna Bondarenko The first CoP Circle in Crimea and the first CoP Circle in R u s s i a n language was held in Simferopol. Ten women aged between 25 and 35 committed to meet twice a week for a month from 19 May to 12 June 2014.
interesting sign that the language gives us? This was the first question we started with at this Crimean CoP Circle. During the program the participants discussed the topics in the CoP Circle manual, applying each one to a real situation we lived. Many questions were asked, some of them were answered, some of them came out of the discussions and still need to be responded to. The film Beyond Forgiving played it’s role as the women started to search for other examples from history which ‘Having different opinions and being with give the way out, and gave hope. They women of different backgrounds as started to look for ‘creative alternatives’ and Ukrainians, Russians and Crimean Tatars for inner peace as tools in peacemaking. from the beginning all the participants of this CoP Circle agreed to listen to each other with ‘Peace is not the absence of conflict but the an open heart, seeking understanding of the presence of creative alternatives for other side, even if its not easy or responding to conflict -- alternatives to comfortable. Sometimes the discussions passive or aggressive responses, were very hot, but we kept that agreement alternatives to violence.’ by Dorothy and managed to build a level of trust to start Thompson speaking on things we could not talk of at the beginning’, said Anna Bondarenko, the Here are some of the responses the Facilitator and initiator of this CoP Circle, and participants wrote on the evaluation sheet at the trainer of Foundations For Freedom. the end of the program: Half of the participants were known to IofC Kruglova Lena: I‘m happy by being members of The Young Leaders that I had chance to share Club (Crimea). my realizations and my The women of Crimea appeared to be in a feelings. I’m grateful that challenged situation. Having lived in a the participants peaceful place for all these years, they were communicated with their divided into two sides after the referendum, heart, and did not spend after which the Crimea peninsula became a their resources on part of Russian Federation. The questions disagreements like ‘who is right and whom to ‘How to live now? How to save inner peace blame’. We looked inside of ourselves and and peaceful relationships in the peninsula came closer to our true and eternal light in us, to our true ‘I’ which brings the peace and only peace. I’m grateful that during the meeting, as a golden thread was the thought that there is no ‘us’ and ‘them’, that we are one. It was important to hear it from others, it gives faith and power.
with the neighbors, even within families in many cases are of different sides, having pro Russian or pro Ukrainian positions. What role do women have in the current situation?’ were questions that Crimean women have faced recently. In Russian language the word ‘peace’ and the word ‘world’ sound the same. Isn’t this an
I’ve become more calm and peaceful, learned how to perceive other points of view, to respect and benefit from it by widening my understanding. I hope that through my actions I will be able to pass to others the lessons and knowledge I got. I appreciate the organizers work, and idea to deliver the program and for opportunity to meet such warm hearted and compassionate people.’ Bondarenko Lena - ‘The program gave me opportunity to stop to think, to realize my fears. It helped to understand that I’m not alone in this world, that there are so many people around that can listen to you, understand and support. The Circle helped to open myself and to look on other people’s lives from d iff er ent perspective. Also I realized that I want to do something good not only for myself and my family but for others, for the world.’ Bondarenko Anna - ‘I hope that at our meetings we managed to lose our irritation and judgment and to build a small circle of peace and trust.’
At our final session, the participants came to have lunch together and decide on potential steps they can take in the future. Along with the topics which the official CoP program consisted of, many issues came up during the discussions, which the participants Nenich Lesya ‘In this Circle I considered as important and needing more have found support in very attention in the future. They discussed the difficult period of my life. need of dialogues between people of pro Thanks to this program I Russian and pro Ukrainian positions and started to find time for dialogue between Crimean Tatars and Slavic myself, that I was lack of. I’m population of Crimea. There is a wish to learning to listen to my inner organize CoP Circles that could involve voice, which is ready to direct and wants to women of different ages, perhaps the help. Our meetings gave me strength and mothers and daughters of CoP, and family filled me with energy to do what is good.’ weekends to explore the topic of peace with Gafarva Zarina - ‘Thanks to the CoP Circle children and spouses.
“Peace has to be created in order to be maintained. It is the product of Faith, Strength, Energy, Will, Sympathy, Justice, Imagination, and the triumph of principle. It will never be achieved by passivity and quietism.” - Dorothy Thompson Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
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Creators of Peace teens empowered to give hope in Syria by Iman Ali Peace-building efforts in Syria continue to be initiated by Iman Al Ghafari and her Creators of Peace Circle participants. Working alongside a national organisation Albushra, which supports Syrians through educational and social workshops and training, Iman and her women were able to visit a school in Damascus. This school’s classrooms have been modified by the government to house about 400 people who have lost their homes and loved ones; the families are also provided The children were treated to a day of facewith basic necessities like food. painting and bags of candy. A team member reported the children said, ‘it was the best Three 17 year old CoP girls Tuleen, Sedra, and day.’ They felt they were cared for because Raneem accompanied Iman on one of her they got what they wanted, not necessarily visits to the shelter, to put peace-building what they needed. into practice. ‘I wanted the girls to be responsible citizens, giving and sharing amidst frustration, depression and fear, instead of simply blaming others,’ says Iman. .
The teens organized activities for children while Iman ran sessions to support the women. Tuleen was ‘happy that through CoP, we were empowered and united in supporting our people in the camp. We were like one heart and many veins. People's problems were ours.’ Living peacefully with the other was something close to Raneem’s heart. She was deeply aware that the children she met had been through so much conflict and agony in their short lives, and was intent on ‘drawing a smile on their faces through games and activities.’
The Healing Has Begun in Egypt by Mary Lean What does peace mean in a country where a people’s revolution has ended in disillusionment, bloodshed and polarisation? The women who took part in Egypt’s first CoP Circle in February came heavily burdened by the events of the last three years, and their effect on their families, friends and relationships. ‘I prayed for God’s guidance on whether I should come or not, especially as I had to skip more than two and a half days from a job
Being part of CoP had deepened Sedra’s love for her country, and her hopes for its recovery from war. Through CoP Circles, she had come to realize that she had a role to play in rebuilding Syria and effecting change. ‘CoP has taught me that every problem can be solved; it has also taught me to be aware of my mistakes and given me ways to change them. With a good attitude, I can go on to find the good in others too.’
One team member felt bitter disappointment when she heard some women in the shelter involved in an argument. ‘Why do people fight at a time they are supposed to love and care for each other, and cooperate to build a better life together?’ she cried. Creators of Peace helped participants become aware of their differences yet learn to understand the other in an open and forgiving space. Iman reports her heart jumped with joy when she overheard one woman tell others that CoP Circles had taught her to manage her feelings and become more objective in spite of how she felt. This woman had initially felt CoP was unrealistic and didn’t believe it would The children also got the opportunity to voice work! their thoughts and feelings. Through games of soccer, for example, involving winning and Iman is grateful to all the support from the losing, the women were able to bring out CoP and IofC team members and the suppressed emotions and lead the children in Almighty. She shares her hopes for the ways of dealing with their fears for the future. ‘Good seeds will find a way to grow. present and the future. We are building a good team, and our dreams can come true.’ where I am threatened to quit because of my facilitated by Su Riddell and Mary Lean from age and my being a woman,’ said Ekbel Al CoP UK, Marie Chaftari from Lebanon and Asyouti, a participant in the first circle. Iman Al Ghafari from Syria. Afterwards, seven women fought their way through the ‘I certainly profited a great deal. We poured Cairo traffic for three more days to be trained our souls out – many of us reaching out for as facilitators. handkerchiefs. I know it has helped me personally to reconcile events in my life.’ Each group included women of different The first circle was attended mainly by older faiths, ages, backgrounds and political women, connected to MRA/IofC Egypt. convictions. ‘It was a real chance for us to take time off, be calm and focus on the The second circle, which took place over a relevant issues,’ said Nagia Abdelmogney weekend, drew younger women, many of Said. them connected to NGOs involved in dialogue and peace work. ‘It was an intense The CoP Circle helped us to express our experience for me, rediscovering myself, hearts, hurts and hopes better, come closer looking deeper into my inner self and roots to one another, dig deep in ourselves, and opening my eyes to things that shape connect more deeply with our Creator. We who I am now and how I react,’ said one are moving towards regaining cohesion after participant. ‘Although it was almost a very tough earthquake.’ impossible for me to share my stories and Attending the CoP Circle made me realize feelings, those three days are for me a that peace is a process, and that involves beginning of a journey to start. I am now inner peace and societal peace,’ said Radwa aware that I am not alone.’ Elsekhily, the youngest woman to take part. ‘Now, I am all recharged up again to reach Both CoP Circles were sponsored by MRA out for myself and for my community and Egypt and by 5Netfahem, which is part of the start spreading the message of peace. Thank British Council’s Active Citizens project. They you for the hope! were organised by Maha Ashour and Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - July 2014 edition
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Creators of Peace is a global women’s network working towards personal and social change.
Creators of Peace Circles transform and empower women to initiate peace from where they are - in their heart, home, workplace, and community - to engage in creating cultures of peace. WE NEED FUNDS TO: Subsidise our volunteer Facilitators to respond to requests for CoP Circles and facilitation training from regions of post conflict and unrest. Produce printed promotional material, and enable some staffing to provide essential services to develop our worldwide network. Have capacity to reimburse out of pocket expenses laid out by our volunteer Facilitators for printing, photocopying, catering supplies, etc
Peace in process in Canberra by Kaveri Chakrabarty A recent CoP Circle in Canberra (Australia) asked the question: ‘What is the significance of holding such a Circle in a predominantly peaceful and harmonious society?’ The collective answer that emerged, despite a diverse range of views on details, was that 'peace' is a process as opposed to an end-point. ‘Peace needs constant nurturing and cultivation to e n s u r e i t s sustenance, and ongoing dialogues are core to the success of this pursu it.’
TO DONATE TO Creators of Peace Please go to www.iofc.creators-of-peace/yoursupport Wingham recently gathered to learn about creating a culture of peace. Led by CoP facilitators Joyce Fraser and Ada Mackay, the women explored their personal understanding of peace and peace-making. “I could relate to the metaphorical loom, or frame on which we wove our shared intention to create this culture,” said a participant who joined the CoP Circle in order to make Creating a culture of connections and share her own Peace is like weaving many journey.
threads, many colours - a glorious Our gratitude to our hosts the Manning thread of diversity, conviction and Cultural Connections, an informal experience. network aimed at building
Rosemary Thwaites writes: We were eight Australian women from five different cultural backgrounds, meeting over two autumn days and an extra evening, in our nation’s capital, as the leaves outside were turning gold and vivid crimson. There was debate, laughter and the occasional tear as we made our way through the CoP topics, watched Ann Njeri’s interview on YouTube, and later a section of the DVD ‘Beyond Forgiving’. As facilitator, I felt that our minds and our hearts were engaged in a satisfying process. Everyone was enriched and touched by the life stories and the courage shown by those who shared them.
Women from a country NSW town of inclusiveness and cultural diversity. By Lucy Hobgood-Brown participant
Regular Feature: “CoP women reflect on their CoP Journey” Zohra Aly - CoP Facilitator Tanya Fox - CoP Facilitator National Coordinator - Australia
I’m going to borrow from Ralph Waldo Emerson and say that my CoP experience is a journey, not a destination. My first experience of a CoP Circle in 2009 was a taster; it planted the seedling of the idea that anyone can be a peace-maker, and the value of inner peace, listening and forgiveness. I became more involved with CoP by participating in CoP gatherings and conferences, and joining the Sydney committee. In 2011, I did my second CoP Circle, and in quick succession, I did my Facilitation training. This time round, the experience was more intense, and the lesson I took away with me was to start really practising what I knew. There were plenty of opportunities for this, within my family and community, and I took it on board to spread the word about CoP. For some women, a CoP Circle is a light-bulb moment, when all the pieces of a puzzle suddenly fall into place. I’ve always tackled jigsaw puzzles methodically, starting from the edges, and working my way in slowly but surely. My CoP journey is still a work in progress.
International Coordinator - Australia
I first experienced a CoP Circle in 2010, and was immediately drawn to do Facilitation training. For me the CoP Circle was an experience of both self discovery and empowerment. But most importantly, it helped me to see how I could have been both a creator and destroyer of peace in my own life. As I continue to practise quiet-times and inner listening, I feel guided to walk the path of a creator of peace and be the peace I want to see. It’s an honour to facilitate other women to reflect and evolve their own innate peace creating ability. It’s humbling to hear them share their stories, to watch them grow and gain personal power to put peace into practice in their own lives, and to take action to create peace in areas of need in their communities. As a CoP International Coordinator, and producer of the CoP Global Connections, I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to help promote CoP and for the wonderful friendships and camaraderie that we share among our global network of volunteers as we work in unison to help create cultures of peace around the world.
This issue of Global Connections was produced & published by Tanya Fox, and edited by Shoshana Faire, Sydney Australia Next edition will be produced once sufficient news, stories, photos, etc are received by Tanya by email: threepillars@ozemail.com.au Global Connections can also be read online at: www.iofc.org/creators-of-peace Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iofc.creatorsofpeace