Witnessing Belonging: A Story Circle

Witnessing Belonging: A Story Circle

Stories of Belonging is a subset of the multimedia documentary and exhibition Crossing Over: Immigration Stories by artist, Jackie Neale, honoring stories of community, immigration, and belonging. Stories of Belonging is partially funded by the Puffin Foundation, and these personal stories will be recorded for an online oral history archive on StoryCorps and then archived in the U.S. Library of Congress. We are inviting a small group into an intimate, facilitated story circle to add to this online archive of oral histories.

At the heart of this experience, 4-5 participants will be gently supported in sharing their personal stories of belonging- and not belonging. These storytellers may be immigrants, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and/or any marginalized people who feel called to speak about their lived experience in a held and respectful space.

Surrounding them, 8-10 additional participants will serve as intentional, silent witnesses. Your role is essential. You will not respond, advise, or interpret. You will listen. You will hold the field. You will bear witness.

Together, we will:

• Explore personal stories of identity, migration, and place

  
  

• Reflect on moments of rupture, resilience, and rootedness

  
  

• Practice deep listening as an act of dignity and care

  
  

• Create a container where presence matters more than performance

  
  

This is not a panel. It is not a discussion.

 It is a circle of witnessing.

Facilitated by photographer and documentarian, Jackie Neale and Marlene Barardo (Spacious Living), this experience blends art, guided reflection, and intentional listening to honor the power of lived story.

Space will be limited to preserve intimacy and care.

Warmly,

Jackie and Marlene

To make this gathering accessible and abundant, we're using a sliding scale inspired by the elements. This space is rooted in trust, generosity, and mutual honoring. You're invited to tune in and choose the exchange that feels most aligned:

🌱 Earth - $22 A grounded, accessible option.

🌊 Water - $33 A nourishing exchange that supports us both and helps hold the space with ease.

🔥 Fire - $44 An expansive contribution that fuels your journey and helps extend this work outward.

🌬️Air - Custom Feel free to choose your own amount if something else feels aligned.