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"
On the seventh day, only the owl and the panther were still awake.
Because they did not succumb to sleep, they were given the power to see in the dark.
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- from a Cherokee
Creation Story
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About Us
All of us could use a refuge, a small, safe space that encourages honest reflection, where we can relax and share with one another, where we can grow.
Refugees in particular need such a space. Many bear the scars of violent oppression, not only physically but in their hearts and minds, and find
themselves disoriented when faced with life in this giant refuge-the United States.
Through creative writing, counseling and community service, Owl and Panther provides a refuge within a refuge. Here, participants-mostly children and young adults-grapple not only with their past experiences but with the challenges of living in a very different world. They also find ways to share their ideas with the community, and to help others.
The group developed from Tucson's Center for Prevention and Resolution of Violence (CPRV), which treats people struggling with pain, poverty, loss of community, and/or family problems.
In 1995, refugee parents asked CPRV to provide special support for their children. At first, activities focused on tutoring and summer school. Participants also met to celebrate different cultures and to learn skills to ease their transition into life in the United States.
In 1998, Owl and Panther became a creative writing group as well. Children, young adults and parents from Central America, Mexico and several African countries, like the owl and panther of Cherokee legend, stay watchful in their own darkness. As they begin to express their feelings through poetry, they discover their strength.
The group also develops leadership skills as participants engage in service projects, such as raising money for earthquake victims and other populations affected by war and trauma.
The Hopi word for trauma, tsawana, means "a state of mind that is in terror." Like the owl and the panther we must learn the power of being able to see in this terrifying darkness and to strive towards a state of Qa Tutsawanavu-a state of living, unintimidated by fear from any source. Such people, the Hopis believe, will enjoy a full life, regardless of the fear around them.
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What's New
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Our new book
Writing Out of the Darkness: An Anthology of Poetry by Refugees in Transition is here!
Click here for details!
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