Community Healing Through Creative Art Expressions Groups
Our project will promote emotional well-being through creative art expressions for currently or formerly undocumented students on campus and students from mixed immigration status families.
Introduction:
The use of creative art practice in group settings has been shown to be a successful, evidence-based tool and intervention. Our project aims to use artistic tools of drawing, dancing, painting, writing, etc. to provide community-driven stress-relief healing strategies in safe spaces on UC Davis campus (i.e. the AB540 and Undocumented Student Center, the Chicanx/Latinx Studies department, etc.). We will be facilitating learning and hosting artists as guest speakers who themselves have used artistic expression as a way of expression and healing in culturally responsive ways for our immigrant communities.
Outcomes:
Through participation in our program, participants will leave with:
- Increased awareness and skills related to nurturing and addressing mental wellness and healing
- Increased understanding of migratory trauma and joy and how it shapes our communities' experiences
- Increased connection to peers in spaces of affinity to develop a sense of belonging on campus
Opportunities for Involvement:
Stay tuned for involvement opportunities by following our Center on Instagram (@UCD540Undoc) and signing up for our newsletter.
Recent Milestones:
Conducted initial draft for recruitment of participants during fall. Identified possible guest speakers and possible collaborations. Defined next steps for program development: start dates, number of sessions and parties involved.