Abstract
EmpowerHER supports women navigating the intersecting challenges of race and gender bias in the workplace, which often result in deep emotional grief spanning years or generations. Our workshop provides a transformative space to address this pain through creativity. Participants will engage in writing, drawing, or mobile photography, guided by reflective prompts that help explore and process emotions. Each attendee will create a personal piece of art representing their feelings and experiences. The workshop concludes with a supportive sharing session, fostering connection and mutual understanding. This workshop empowers participants to channel workplace-related grief into artistic expression, reframing pain as a source of resilience and growth. By combining creativity, reflection, and community, attendees gain tools to process emotions, build confidence, and navigate challenges with clarity and strength. As a former English professor, I have seen how workplace bias leaves lasting emotional scars. Colleagues and students often shared feelings of exclusion and diminished performance, leading to depression, missed opportunities, and job losses. These stories highlight the need for safe spaces where grief can be expressed and transformed into healing. EmpowerHER invites attendees to explore the unifying power of art, transforming grief into a catalyst for self-expression and empowerment. Together, we can turn pain into growth and connection through creativity.
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
ART AS HEALING, INTERSECTIONAL CHALLENGES, RESILIENCE AND GROWTH, JUDGMENT-FREE SPACE
