A Black History Month Celebration: Exploring and Restoring Our Path to Healing through Empathy and Music

A Black History Month healing workshop at Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California, this weekend gathering brings together empathy practice and group singing. It is led by facilitator and author LaVerne McLeod and the Grammy-nominated vocal activist Melanie DeMore. It is open to people of all races, identities, gender expressions and nationalities, and it will suit educators, therapists, artists and anyone in a leadership role working with diverse communities.

What to Expect

The weekend asks participants to imagine what it is like to walk in another person's shoes, and to understand viewpoints that may differ from their own. The group builds a container of trust first, then gets curious about what lies beneath the surface, moving toward resilience and empowerment.

The work draws on empathy exercises, songs, visualization and movement. Participants connect with one another, let go of what no longer serves them, and explore effective responses to life's challenges. LaVerne leads the empathetic practices that bridge gaps of separation. Melanie leads soulful ballads meant to energize the room and show how music can restore and heal.

The schedule runs across three days. On Friday, a "How to Drop Into Esalen" orientation takes place from 5:00 to 6:00 pm, and the workshop opens in the evening from 7:15 to 9:30 pm with arrival and opening. Saturday has a morning session from 9:30 am to 12:45 pm, a lunch break, and an afternoon session from 3:00 to 6:15 pm. The final session on Sunday runs from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and closes the weekend.

About LaVerne McLeod

LaVerne McLeod is the founder and facilitator of Bridge Building to Equity Workshops. She is a public speaker, author, workshop facilitator and theatrical presenter. She is devoted to community volunteer work and currently serves as co-coordinator of Big Sur Advocates for a Green Environment. She has published two books, Corn Hollow: A Journey of Sorrow and Triumph and The Crossroads of Social and Climate Justice, both suggested as recommended reading for the workshop.

About Melanie DeMore

Melanie DeMore is a three-time Grammy-nominated singer, composer, choral conductor, music director and vocal activist who believes in the power of voices raised together. In her presentations she brings participants together through her music and her commentary.

The Setting

Esalen Institute sits on the Big Sur coast, and the workshop is held on its campus. Guests can choose from a wide range of lodging, from budget sleeping bag space in a shared room and bunk beds to standard and premium rooms, yurts with ocean views, and private suites such as the Price House Suite, the Rolf Suite and the Fritz Point House. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, with coffee, tea and snacks available.

Guests also have access to the hot springs and other campus features, and to the classes on Esalen's open schedule during their stay. Access to northern Big Sur has at times depended on Highway 1 travel arrangements, so it is worth checking current road conditions before you travel.

Before You Go

No prior experience is needed, and the workshop is taught in English. The program includes workshop sessions, housing, all meals, coffee, tea and snacks, the hot springs, and the open class schedule. Healing arts sessions such as massage, specialty beverages and alcohol, and bookstore purchases are extra.

Several ways to attend are offered, including a stay on-site, a stay off-site, and an individual day pass. A locals rate is available for people who do not need overnight accommodations, and valid ID is required for it. Scholarships are also available.