Trauma-Informed Arts Engagement to Facilitate Healing and Recovery for St. Cloud

Saint Cloud is deeply divided by race and radicalized violence. The Saint Cloud library is perceived as the only true commons space where all people can feel welcomed and safe. This incident has brought up trauma amongst staff and the community, especially people of Somali and eastern African heritage. This project includes partnering with the Rainbow Wellness Collective, to offer five, 2-hour art making sessions, focused on creative writing, painting, collage-making, lyrical dancing, and drumming circles, at the library. The sessions would be facilitated by trauma artist-facilitators, supported by social workers and therapists, to share community resources for those who need support, and create a sense of safety and belonging at the library.