Ofrenda Workshop with Dr. Bridget Algee-Hewitt

Join Dr. Bridget Algee-Hewitt, the CCSRE student and staff community, and friends of CCSRE for an afternoon of sharing, celebration, and healing. Dr. Algee-Hewitt will discuss how memory and tradition serve as powerful forms of resistance against the systems of structural and physical violence that oppress, marginalize, and dehumanize communities. We'll explore how those who have endured great hardships reclaim their loss of people, places, and identity through tradition and celebration.

Together, we'll engage in the healing tradition of ofrenda, or altar, building—a practice rooted in Latin American culture and shared worldwide through ceremonies at gathering places, like temples, spirit houses, and churches. This tradition honors memory, celebrates those who have passed, and aids in processing trauma.

In these challenging times, as uncertainty and fear weigh heavy on our minds and in our hearts, strengthening our community bonds is essential. Let's unite on Tuesday to embrace this tradition of resistance and resilience, building ofrendas to honor loved ones, give thanks, and express hopes for a just future.

Each of us will decorate our own ofrenda to either take home or display at CCSRE. Materials will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring personal items, meaningful yet modest, such as photographs, music, poetry, trinkets, or foodstuffs, to include in your ofrenda.

All undergraduate and graduate students are welcome. Please RSVP here. Treats and warm drinks will be served. You may direct questions to bridgeta [at] stanford.edu (bridgeta[at]stanford[dot]edu) or tmdinh [at] stanford.edu (tmdinh[at]stanford[dot]edu)