VETERANS AND COMMUNITY CONFERENCE:

COMING HOME THROUGH ART AND DIALOGUE

Warrior Writers held our Veterans and Community Conference May 21 and 22 in Philadelphia, hosted by Drexel Veterans Association, Philadelphia Mural Arts Program and the Sparkplug Foundation. What an amazing collection of people there were! We had a writing workshop, an allies training, art-making, silk screen printing, free healing sessions, laughing, mingling, great food, and wonderful experiences all around. We’re very eager to build on the relationships and plans we made. Saturday was capped off with a performance at our art exhibition on South Street, which included new pieces created during the conference. There was even a juggling performance!  We were happy to welcome in Sailors and other passersby who stopped to see what was happening. We’re looking forward to the next conference in Chicago this fall; watch the website for details.

REFLECTIONS & WRITING

“I had a really nice experience.  I felt like I was able to connect more deeply, in a safe space, surrounded by those who are able to understand and even respect the process of emotional development that Warrior Writers allows. I'm very grateful for the time and energy of each one of us and I hope we continue to learn, love, grow, and make a difference.” - Krissy Vogt

“It was an honor to be a part of the Warrior Writer's conference and to share in the open, honest discussion about the trauma which consumes the nights and days of so many of our Veterans. I was inspired and humbled by the sincerity and the willingness to reach out and embrace one another… For many the road starts here, and I hope to be a part in bringing more Vets into the fold - to reclaim them from the lost places they've drifted since returning from combat. Healing is after all, a reclamation process - an effort to take ourselves back from the void, and how better to accomplish it than by harnessing the power of imagination to combat all the fear, anxiety, self-loathing, and pain.Thanks to all the WW staff for making this all happen.” - Jay Moad II

“Amazing weekend spent with fellow Veterans and Allies at Drexel University. Once again I was humbled by others work, words and outpouring of support for us Veterans. Stay tuned to posted pictures and videos of the event!” - Sean Casey

“Warrior Writers has helped me tremendously… Just being around other veterans is great therapy - the best when combined with the writing, art, fellowship, safe space, and holistic healing opportunities. I feel refreshed and more at peace." – Amber Stone

I AM A VETERAN
By Chantelle Bateman

Yes me, I’m a veteran.
Yes, a real Marine veteran.
No, I cannot snap necks.
Stop thanking me already!
I don’t have any hoorah left and you are not welcome.
No flags on my coffin
But I’m still not home yet;
Spirit killed in action,
My body decaying with survivor’s guilt.
I did my part
But it wasn’t for you,
Or me
It was for the machine.
Served honorably in the name of money.
And for things which you and I will never have need.
I couldn’t find anything for reconciliation.
Nothing came up for reconciliation.
There are only three feelings now that I’ve broken my gives-a-damn.
Do they have an app for that?

WORKSHOPS & RETREATS