Ripples Healing Circle

Ripples Healing Circle

Come join us for a transformative experience at Abolition Comix - 2520 Telegraph Ave. The Ripples Healing Circle is a gathering where we come together to share stories, support one another, and create a safe space for healing. Whether you're seeking emotional release, spiritual connection, or simply a sense of community, this event is for you. Let's create ripples of healing together.

About your facilitators:
Anthony Michael Jefferson (AJ) - is a dedicated restorative justice facilitator and a proud “Returned Citizen” who has transformed his 23-year experience within the Pr*son industrial complex into a powerful tool for change. AJ has successfully led various groups, including NA/AA, anger management, spiritual awareness, and healing through forgiveness. He has also collaborated with esteemed local restorative justice organizations such as Restore Oakland, Full Picture Justice, Impact Justice, and Treasure Island. AJ is a passionate advocate for those marginalized by societal ignorance and is committed to using his skills to foster community and healing with A.B.O Comix. His journey and dedication make him an inspiring leader in the field of restorative justice and emotional healing.

Kelly Maher - is a long time Bay Area educator and community member. She has dedicated her studies to growth mindset principles, interconnectedness, family and community engagement. She is passionate about fostering and creating safe, inclusive and supportive spaces for individuals to come together and grow. Kelly has participated in and led a variety of circles in the bay area. Introduced to the social justice world by her partner AJ ; a returned citizen. Kelly has not only attended circles but has been trained in community building with an emphasis on reconciliation. Along with AJ; she has been circle keeping alongside members with experience in recovery, incarceration, trauma, healing and lgbtq+ community members. With impactful experiences at Restore Oakland, Full Picture Justice and Treasure Island Community Circles, Kelly is setting intentions for circle keeping at ABO to create transformative, inclusive and authentic experiences for all participants.

Ripples event series description:
Both AJ and Kelly have faced social, personal, and cultural prejudices, yet they have triumphed through the power of community healing and restorative justice circles. These healing circles have fostered their individual growth and revealed that there is still more healing to do and share. We invite you to join us in holding solemn and sacred space as we acknowledge our role as caretakers of the land, not its owners.

Our sessions begin with an awareness of the ancestral tribes and elders who came before us, whose practices have provided invaluable insights to those directly or indirectly impacted by the justice system. Healing circles offer a space to speak or remain silent, laugh and cry, confront our fears, and express deep and joyful emotions through community healing. The gift of the circle is the realization that you are not alone and that your voice matters.

Host or Publisher A.B.O. Comix