EVENTS

Listening Circle for Black Women, Allies, and Those of Shared Humanity

Hosted by Dr. Nikki Chamblee, Robin Riley-Casey, and Kiyaana Cox Jones.

What is the Listening Circle and Why is it Being Held?
This Listening Circle is a sacred space designed for reflection, deep listening, and shared humanity. Rooted in restorative practices, it offers a place to witness and honor the voices, stories, and experiences of Black women while fostering connection among allies and those committed to collective healing. This is an opportunity to listen, be heard, and celebrate the richness of our diverse journeys through dialogue, presence, and intentional reflection.

Who is This For?
This gathering is for:

• Black women who seek a space to express, reflect, and be in community.
• Allies who are committed to listening and learning with an open heart.
• Those of shared humanity—anyone who values intentional dialogue and wants to contribute to an atmosphere of respect and healing.

What to Consider Before Entering This Space:
Before attending, we invite you to reflect on the following:

1. What does it mean to truly listen? Listening without the need to fix, respond, or defend is an act of deep presence.
2. How do I hold space for voices different from my own? Consider how you show up with humility, curiosity, and care.
3. What is my intention in joining this circle? Reflect on what brought you here and how you can contribute to a space of affirmation and shared growth.

Guiding Principles for Our Time Together:

• This is a space for listening, not debate. Every voice matters, and every story deserves to be honored without interruption.
• We embrace discomfort as a space for growth. Truth-telling and vulnerability are welcome here.
• Respect and confidentiality are essential. What is shared in this space stays within the circle, unless given permission otherwise.
• We honor the lived experiences of Black women. This is a space of affirmation, healing, and connection.

Why This Matters:
Listening is an act of love. This circle is a chance to bear witness to each other’s journeys, offer presence rather than solutions, and create a space where Black women’s voices are centered, honored, and uplifted—in solidarity with those who stand beside them in shared humanity.

We highly encourage all participants to have already seen our production, MAGIC, or to experience it after attending this event. The two pieces exist in an intimate conversation with each other.

[Image description: A circle formed by a group of hands all touching each other and curled into fists. Each set of hands belongs to a different person of color, each a different shade. Some of the hands wear rings. Below the ring of hands and forearms is a grey carpeted floor.]