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We’Moon in Prison Click here to Donate to the Women in Prison Program. Some time in the 1990s, We’Moon began sending datebooks to imprisoned women—women’s spirituality groups who made requests for donations, as well as to women we knew who were either behind bars or working with incarcerated women. Over time the word spread to institutions throughout the country; we now send hundreds of datebooks each year in response to requests from women in prison. We wanted to include their voices in the Anthology, so we asked some of the women who participate in this program a few questions. Here are excerpts from responses and from letters we have received over the years: |
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"I teach a creative Arts and Yoga Program to adolescent
and adult women who are in state correctional institutions and rehabilitation
programs in Minnesota. For years I have brought in We'Moon datebooks
for inspiration, comfort and as a teaching tool for the women as they
are encouraged to begin expressing themselves. I have rarely found a
compilation of work by and for women that matches the diversity and
creativity that so nurtures and engages the heart and soul of these
wonderful women. I am a 3rd Degree High Priestess working towards my
ordainment…I am a solitary practitioner at this time so We’Moon has
been useful in my daily meditations and served as a source of my intentions
for Pagan Holidays. When I read material that promotes women’s spirituality
I am inspired and hopeful to find the journey that the creator has in
store for me. “Aditi, Goddess of the Luminous Void” by Beth Beurkens
(We’Moon 09: At the Crossroads, pg. 156) has become something
I read every day. Aditi has become my Goddess. When I read about her
and how all your trouble can dissolve into an emptiness that is beyond
your wildest imagination if you just let go, I cried until my shoulders
shook. I absolutely love We’Moon stories, poetry and artwork.
I read it and dwell on it, discovering an inner peace. When I look at the art and read the writings, it gives
me a chance to dream. It opens my mind…it’s the only thing I will be
taking when I leave here. I use We’Moon to help others when they are down. I
choose which writing I feel will help them come to peace inside. In We’Moon 09: At the Crossroads, pg. 40,
there is the most moving poem called “I Cry Too”. When I read it I felt
my soul opening up to a new understanding. I use We’Moon to track the moon. I have noticed that
full moons in prison are exceptionally wild and crazy. We’Moon has helped me keep up with the moon phases
and keeps me tuned in to my body, spirit and soul to enhance my rituals.
Because I am a strong, opinionated, outgoing woman,
I have been labeled by society (men) as a dominating, outspoken feminist.
That’s great. I love my title. I am a long time feminist…now with my experience of
being incarcerated, I can more clearly see the consequences of our patriarchal
society on both men and women. I have been a feminist all my life dating back to W
Magazine, Gloria Steinem and bra burning. I work as a Dominatrix and
believe that women should take their place in society as Goddesses and
dominants. I use We’Moon to input all good dates, troubled ones
too, and above all else—my release date. I do believe as a woman I am strong, independent, and
can achieve my dreams on my own. |
¤ Bree, coordinator of
the We’Moon prisoner program |
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