On April 26, 1986, the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown shook the world.
A Contemplative Gathering and Elm Dance
Tuesday April 26, 2022, at 7:00 pm
$5–$35 Sliding Scale – portion of proceeds go to 350PDX
More info here
The program:
On April 26 we will remember Chernobyl 36 years ago and its ongoing impacts, especially in light of current conditions in Ukraine. And we’ll bow to Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945 and Fukushima in March 2011, as well.
This evening will honor peacemakers everywhere, and will also honor the endless river across time and cultures of people who have patiently loved and cared for the land, the forests, the communities, and the cultures they love so dearly.
We’ll offer a metta practice for all who suffer the pain, loss, and grief of wars and other nuclear disasters, and also acknowledge the beauty of life on this planet we call Earth. We’ll rekindle our commitment to peace and resilience, and our determination to protect the beauty and balance of Earth, for present generations and those to com. And we’ll join hands in a timeless and simple circle dance for the world.
The Elm Dance In 1992, a lovely, easy circle dance was introduced at a despair workshop for Chernobyl downwinders in western Russia, by Buddhist scholar Joanna Macy accompanied by a poignant Latvian folksong. Called the Elm Dance, the simple movements commemorate the beautiful hardwood forests of that region and the people who have lived there for generations. Joanna promised that day in 1992 that she would lead the dance in workshops wherever she went, and tell the story of its origin. For 25 years she kept that promise, leading it all over the world, including numerous times in Portland, most recently at her workshop here in August 2017, held at PIMC. Intention has grown in those decades to honor forests and rivers, mountains and valleys, and all creatures that are in danger anywhere.
REGISTER NOW Offered by donation, online or at the door. Suggested: $5–$35 but all are welcome.
Proceeds from this in-person event will support several programs in the Portland area.
- Peace and nuclear education (Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility)
- Refugees and immigrants (IRCO)
- Refugees and immigrants (Adelante Mujeres)
- Climate justice, action, and resilience (350 PDX)
