Let's Create A Better World!
Testimonials
Voluntary Testimonials from workshop participants in
A Black History Celebration: EXPLORING & RESTORING OUR PATH to HEALING through EMPATHY & MUSIC
February 9-11, 2024 workshop at Esalen Institute, Big Sur, CA
Created & Facilitated by LaVerne McLeod with Guest Presenter, Jayson Fann
LaVerne, your workshop was really powerful. The space you make is full of love and acceptance and offered everyone an opportunity to grow. I loved the group of people with so many different perspectives. I feel like my heart is moved open and I learned so much. It was also a beautiful celebration of Black History Month and Jayson’s music history was wonderful. Thank you so much for this experience. CF
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Dear Amazing LaVerne, thank you for the workshop. The group of people are divine and you inspired and held the space for empathy and groundedness. Thank you for the grounding dance and humming explorations. I was, as those in my class whom I talked with about it, also were surprised by the demographics of our cohort. (minimal African Americans). I made new friends whom I hope to continue community with. Kelly
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-Overall, an excellent workshop.
-Disappointed with the lack of racial diversity of participants.
-Enjoyed the workshop integrated inner/outer work paradigm
-workshop also celebrated the lesser known civil rights leaders
Anonymous
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The subtle and gentle means that LaVerne employs to open participants mends hearts to the difficult to approach subjects of discrimination, prejudice and judgement-and creates an atmosphere that is safe to explore old programming, unawareness and blind spots, with a willingness to learn and change ignorant thoughts and behavior.
LaVerne’s gentle and friendly approach, willingness to create teachable moments, and patience with the process is a role model for all of us in our goal to live in peace together. Soaring
I had no expectation about the weekend. So thank you LaVerne for taking the time and energy to prepare yourself to guide us through the weekend. You allowed space for discussion outside of your agenda. You had exercises for us to actually dive into meeting new people & having Jayson join us for the time he had to present. Well done! GS
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Loved all your rituals, beauty making, alter & I see you exercise. This exercise really brought calm trust and energy intimacy. I loved acting a story with a small group to explore and share empathy. Lots of variety in teaching and historic figure sharing. Loved planting bulbs with all the composted elements we want to let go of. Loved your ritual dress beauty. Anonymous
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Elder Queen LaVerne, thank you for modeling empathy in a bold, engaging and informative way. Your style and grace created a safe space for exploration and movement. I greatly appreciate your time, intention and influence. With Gratitude and Grace- Da’Light
Jayson- word to my brother: Impeccable! I learned so much and love the light you bring to learning. Your passion is evident. Your gifting is supreme. Continue listening to the Spirit as it moves you! Gratitude and Grace- Da’Light.
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Thank you LaVerne for a most nourishing weekend. First of all, it was so clear that you devoted a lot of time, heart and intention in preparation for a whole lot of teaching and experiencing. I was so moved by the experience our group had in the role-play. Even before we left the room, we were off to the races! Reflecting on how our role-play group dealt with it, I had a feeling of elation when we processed, listened and came to a peaceful place. WOW WOW! Thank You!
I felt the same way about Jayson. I was blown away by the storytelling of his lived experiences, weaving in mysticism, spirituality, history and culture. I mean that picture of the Mississippi River and the River in Africa-What?! Meg
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LaVerne, I am so happy I attended your workshop on Empathy and Music.
The exercise on silently looking into each person’s eyes was revelatory and key to empathy.
The skits we did stretched my ability to empathize with persons of color, gender and mixed abilities.
Jayson’s offering of musical history with examples of recorded music was inspiring and educational and shifted a paradigm, I think. I saw and felt the connections to Africa in all music and instruments and increased my appreciation of African based musicians + dancers. JM
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LaVerne, you have such vibrantly clear energy and present your material and yourself in such a selfless, non-judgmental and unpretentious way. I love how you go around the room acknowledging each person by name individually. You are a gem-an amethyst!!!
Love, Melissa
Jayson, what a gift to hear a little bit about your life’s work and journeys. It’s hard to believe all you have done for yourself and for others in 50 years. Are you sure that you are not 150? Love, Melissa
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LaVerne, thank you so much for creating a safe space to explore deep and sometimes triggering issues. The group was kind, courteous and open- and that has a lot to do with your ability to lead with your heart.
Great discussions. Lots of sharing. Beautiful people. Strong hearts. Thank you. Kari Bernardi
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The Sawubona exercise was a challenging one for me but I think it is something I needed to learn.
I appreciated the beautifully appointed space with the posters, flowers, alter and background music [upon entering]. It transformed the space into a cozy safe container. It was very welcoming.
I got an insight, a surprising one, on what to let go of. It was not what I expected, but it was a direct result of our roleplay interactions. Thank you for your joyful, colorful presence. Kasia
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Exploring & Restoring Our Path to Healing Workshop on Feb 3-5, 2023 at Esalen Institute
one participant wrote:
LaVerne Lessons
First, she opened our hearts.
Then she softened them
Prepared us to Listen.
Got us Ready.
She walked into a fresh landscape.
It was unpopulated by doubt and fear and cynicism.
Instead, there was nothing but love.
And in the field of love,
And in the field of love,
Miracles emerge
“LaVerne’s work avoids the trap that most DEI work falls into: shame and blame. In the many trainings I have been part of and helped to construct, there is inevitably a righteous tone that frames victim and victimizer in absolute terms that can never be reconciled. Without safety, we cannot heal. In order to understand one another and feel empathy for one another, we must feel safe to do so. LaVerne masterfully prepares the ground for the deep work by focusing first on building trust within the participants themselves. She avoids heady conversation about the right way to do this work. Instead, she focuses on establishing safety. As the workshop continues, in that field of safety, participants are able to understand the message that she has to deliver. It is only within that field of safety that participants can truly learn. That participants can truly empathize with her experience. She does this with an extraordinary skill. Her work is vitally important and stands as a shining example of work done in the DEI space. I cannot recommend her more highly.” — by Peter Campbell
“It was really an inspirational workshop and it got me to thinking about all beautiful moments ahead and gives me the strength and courage to step out of my old insecure self into the more confident person I am this day. I have you to thank for that, giving me the opportunity really made a difference.” by unnamed
“Thank you for an incredibly moving and life changing experience.” — Catherine Fanoe
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Testimonials- Big Sur Grange Book Launch- February 11, 2023
“Thank you for sharing these critical ideas with the wider world. I appreciate your great heart and talent, and unique way of presenting. FACTS FADE, but STORIES STICK!”
Stephanie Lee, Educator, Captain Cooper School, Big Sur
“Many thanks! You have me thinking about what I could do- This book is a great resource! Congratulations!
Susie Joyce, Author, Pacific Grove
“Thank you for a very provocatively stirring book launch. We are proud and humbled to have participated in the singing.”
Michael & Sarah, Carmel
“LaVerne is a bold performer who brings issues that are off taught, but not always felt, straight to your heart.” Unnamed
“A wonderful presentation. I’m looking forward to reading your book. I had not heard of Cancer Alley- am glad to know about this area and to share it with others-such a sad story.”
Jaci Pappas, Big Sur
“Inspirational, transforming, wonderful direct sharing. Not just of connected problems, but clear what individuals can do to participate to bring solutions!! BRAVA!! Unnamed
“Congratulations on a very timely and relevant book at a critical time. I hope it reaches many people and changes minds, then creates action to protect vulnerable people from further harm.”
Leigh Fitz, Seaside
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Dramatic Book Presentation- and Book Signing 3/18/2023
Honoring Denyse Frischmuth (posthumously)
Sponsored by Communities for Sustainable Monterey County
“I thought your presentation was most fitting for our first in-person gathering in a long, long while. Like Cathy said, you brought Denyse into our midst and rekindled our shared commitment to working together to care for our Earth and all the interconnected living systems on the planet. Your book embodies all that we’re striving for. Denyse would have been filled with pride at your work.”
Catherine Crockett, President, Monterey Peace & Justice Center
“Thank you LaVerne for your wonderful contribution to our “return to live” brunch event today.
I felt Denyse’s presence with your tribute to her and your demonstration that you have met her challenge to move to action on climate and social justice issues with the publication of your book.
Cathy Rivera, President, Communities for Sustainable Monterey County
“I loved your multimedia approach: acting, singing (beautiful voice), poetry and video). Very moving and impactful.
Karen Harris, Sustainable Del Rey Oaks, Co-Chair
“LaVerne, I loved the performance! My comment was that workers and unions are afraid of losing jobs [to speak up about neighborhood toxins]. Environmental Justice and Labor need to figure out how to work together to make a change that works for us all.
Vivian Price, Carmel
“I loved your approach to storytelling. You were not just reading something. You presented an approach that created emotions and made it real.”
Robert Frischmuth, Pacific Grove
“Thank You!” “LaVerne, I appreciated your passion, emotion and how you intersected how the Amazon, pollution, zip codes are interconnected. We are all interconnected. I am inspired to help support the truth we are all ONE. One neighborhood.
Monica Eastway, Eco Gerontologist & Founder-The ECO Generation Park Model, Big Sur
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YOUTH PRESENTATION at Salinas Lutheran Church for Visiting Youth from Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, June 14, 2023
I deeply appreciate the work you did for us. That night was a climax moment for many of them, and even though some of the were [ungracious], I think they grew from the experience.
Your presentation was very impactful. I know it takes a lot of emotional labor to discuss such painful realities – thank you so much for doing that with us.
With much gratitude and respect,
Keris Dahlkamp, Director of Youth Ministries, Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
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Testimonials 2019-2021
July 22, 2021 - Bridge Building to Equity Virtual Workshop –
“Creating The Reality of Non-Discrimination & Equity"
For the July 22, Bridge Building workshop testimonials, I have chosen instead, VISIONS that came from participants that are valuable resources and was concluded with more depth in the July 29th Monterey Public Library workshop “CREATING A WORLD FOR EVERYONE” that also included actions to manifest the visions. For a copy of these visions email info@lavernemcleod.com
June 24, 2021 - Bridge Building to Equity Virtual Workshop –
"Examining Restoration Justice"
“Thanks for all your efforts today. I had chills up my spine when you shared that drama piece and song after first hearing about Gary Malachi Scott’s story.” Eoghan C. Bend, Oregon
“Enlightening!” Alicia K. Las Vegas
“Restorative Justice has such potential to heal our communities and society in general. How misguided and damaging our current system of crime and punishment is, and the huge social and financial burden of sustaining it. Hearing the first-hand accounts of Restorative Justice process from both sides of the crime was eye-opening. Thanks for presenting the information as you always do, concisely and impactful.” Catherine C. Seaside, CA
May 20, 2021 - Bridge Building to Equity Virtual Workshop -
"How are Millennials and Younger Persons Affected by Racial Inequities? What Do They Plan to Do About It?"
“THANK YOU for finding such creative ways to help us face difficult truths and find interdependent ways of untying this system of racism and suffering!!” – Path S., Aromas, CA
“Exciting, Inspiring, A Personal Touch, A Different Reality to it All.” – Pauline A., Carmel, CA.
“Thursday’s workshop was another deep dive into a new aspect of racism. It’s an amazing amount of impactful information compressed into an hour. I’m grateful for the insights and the chance to be part of the conversation.” – Catherine C., Seaside, CA
“You are a magician! It is a most impactful workshop. Lots of information and inspiration from young and old.” – Sylvia S., Seaside, CA
April 29, 2021 - Bridge Building to Equity Virtual Workshop-
"Can Workplace Equity be Achieved for All Races?"
“Those of us who have endured deep wounds/betrayals/shame and come out the other side with grace relatively intact often have empowering wisdom to share for we’ve discovered strength we didn’t even know we had and maintained relative equilibrium.” – Vivian D.
“Thanks for sharing the links when I couldn’t be there. I’ve watched the video, some parts more than once. This was a rich and deeply affecting workshop, like all the sessions in this series. Your singing, and this time, Eoghan’, add so much to learning experience. Such a gift.” Catherine C.
“I enjoyed today’s meeting. I appreciate your creativity expressed in the various ways we are learning and the various people you are choosing to present. This variety also includes videos, breakout sessions, and the group discussions at the end. Thank You! Love and Light.” – Ellen Gannon
March 25, 2021 - Bridge Building to Equity Virtual Workshop
“Building Relationships with Persons of Different Cultures” (The Foundation for Community Building)
“It is wonderful how gentle you are with your work, asking a simple question that can bring up so much that people have buried. And this is so helpful with healing so one can move to the next stage.” – Penny V., Big Sur, CA
“I am in gratitude for who you are and for your continuous creativity to give us first-hand experience with persons of different cultures and appearances. Your one-hour workshop series with videos, interviews, group discussions and interaction, allows us personal experiences in real-time even though we are interacting through Zoom.” – Ellen G., Carmel, CA
“I observed LaVerne as a ceremonialist, appreciating and honoring of indigenous people and the enslaved Africans who helped to build this country. She models deep presence and I felt that presence and focus all through her workshop. It created a tenor of dynamic movement through the layers- her words, videos, the spoken words of her guest presenter, and the safe space for participants to have emotional reactions” – Soaring S., Big Sur, CA
“I really appreciate the input from all the participants as well as speakers in your 4/29/21 workshop. Vivian Danzer (guest presenter) really added a hands-on tool that we can never get enough of. Even with the small amount of time that Vivian spoke, her contribution was invaluable (as we learned about microaggressions in the workplace, in volunteer work, in committee work and elsewhere).” – Pauline A., Carmel, CA
February 25, 2021 - Bridge Building to Equity Virtual Workshop
“Finding Ways to Reduce Racism by Examining Privilege”
“Great workshop…great work you are doing on one of the most important issues of the day.” – Lynn Z.
“Beautifully created workshop. Inspiring.” – Karen B.
“Enlightening.” – Alicia K.
“This was an excellent workshop. I appreciate the holistic design of your sessions. They raise awareness, educate, invoke empathy, and inspire change through practical actions. In one hour! So powerful.” – Catherine C.
“I like that you mentioned “story”. It is such a good way to build bridges, whether in trying to talk across the big divide between left and right, or between people of color and ‘whites’. ‘ – Lynn H.
“I enjoyed your workshop! And I appreciate your positive energy! Also, you have a lovely and inspirational singing voice!” – Carell C.
November 19, 2020 - Bridge Building to Equity Webinar
"Disarming Racial Fear."
“The webinars are a way to come together and grow in our resolve to learn ways to be a part, not an unmoved bystander, in a movement we all hold dear.” – Maria B.
“So much good inspiration. Thank you for the offering LaVerne” – Laurie Sterling.
October 22, 2020- Bridge Building to Equity Webinar
“Systemic Racism in the Health Care System & Exploring Possibilities for Equity.”
“Thank you so much for teaching this session. I always enjoy your series.” – M. D., Monterey, CA
“Thank you for the creation of the series and providing a path forward.” Sylvia. S., Seaside, CA
“LaVerne McLeod is an absolute gem to our world, a true leader of knowledge and hope. LaVerne’s workshops enroll us to understand our history, understand the present and through empowerment of our mind and heart, encourages us to work together so we all can live in an equitable society. Through education, song, connection and innovation, LaVerne guides groups building solutions for our most urgent social issues. I highly recommend LaVerne’s workshops for anyone seeking understanding while learning how to be the change we want to see in the world, in a most comfortable and heartfelt space.” – M. E., Big Sur CA
September 24, 2020 - Bridge Building to Equity Webinar
"Uncovering Systemic Racism Involving Criminal Justice & Pathways to Help Create Change."
“I love the format that LaVerne is using for her sessions. She teaches in such a way to make one think, not to intimidate, correct or criticize. Each hour session is time well spent, which I have found is followed by lots of time in reflection. I particularly liked some of the solutions such as compassion and conflict management workshops for teachers and police. These need to be given and revisited just like a first aide certification.”
– Trudy S., La Conner, Washington
“Everything and communities are connected. Thank you for bringing people together and bringing this awareness.”
– Monica E., Big Sur, CA
“Well done. You have a way of introducing such serious information in such a great way.”
– Catherine C., Seaside, CA
August 27, 2020 - Bridge Building to Equity Webinar
THE RACIAL PANDEMIC SERIES: Session 1 - "The Racial Crisis & Inner - Actions to Help Heal Our Wounds"
“This session was just heart-wrenching and healing at the same time. Exposing the wound to the light of air.” – Soaring S. J., Big Sur
“Diversity is stronger and connectivity is the best, like nature. Thank You.” – Elizabeth M., Monterey
“This is needed and I am so proud to be a part of this.” Alicia K., Las Vegas
“Your webinar was well-organized. The topic was where we all need to begin. It is so important.” – Maria B., Alaska
A few participants used the word, “powerful” as they described their experience of stepping into the shoes of persons in the History section of the webinar.
2019 Workshop Testimonials from Organizations:
“This workshop was a great opportunity for our team to take a step back and think the big picture about equity and inclusion within our organization and the communities we serve.” – Benjamin Eichorn, Executive Director, MEarth
[Please note that Bridge Building to Equity is a series of workshops (See homepage for the complete listing). These Equity workshops deals with exploring tools to help dissolve discriminations of all kinds- racism, workplace bias, sexual orientation, gender, persons with disabilities and other differences, gender, age and religious discriminations.]
“LaVerne’s work, both as an author and a workshop presenter, plums the depth where powerful forces and subtlety meet to ring true.” – Dr. Nancy Louise Knapp, Ed.D.
“Robert and I are so glad we participated in the workshop. It was very inspiring. It triggered all kinds of thoughts and new perspectives in our minds, which leads us to have new conversations on the subject. You did an awesome job, not only of leading it but the outstanding prep work that led to Friday’s performance. Actually building a bridge, slat by slat, is a very powerful visual. It’s ingrained in our brains. Cheers!” – Denyse Frischmuth, President Communities for a Sustainable Monterey County
“I really appreciate the depth of preparation it took to “corral” your thoughts and experience along with the enormity of subject material into a viable information giving and experiential workshop. This is an enormous undertaking and I think you did a very good job. THANK YOU so much for your effort through understanding to help us all heal our planet together. With respect and love. ” – Jayanti Alpert
“The content and presentation of Friday’s workshop was excellent, and I saw how much careful preparation was involved. Not only that, but I found your energy and creativity to be inspiring.Your long-term vision for developing the BBE workshops and making it available on a broader scale is a positive and tangible step forward in dealing with racism. Congratulations on a successful first workshop. My best.” – Catherine Crockett, President, Monterey Peace & Justice Center
“Thank you for putting on such a great event! Thanks again!” – Amber Kingery, Monterey Peninsula Attorney
“BEAUTIFUL! PERFECT! KEEP GOING!” – Rachel Fann, Caterer & Massage Therapist
Testimonies
The Crossroads of Social and Climate Justice
“LaVerne’s work, as both author and a workshop presenter, plumbs the depths where powerful forces and subtlety meet to ring true.” – Nancy Louise Knapp, Ed.D.
Speaking from one voice, the Monterey Peace and Justice board members praise LaVerne’s tremendous work to help dismantle racism and advance climate justice. Confronting one’s own biases, privileges, and internalized racism and climate injustices can be difficult, yet in this book and workshops, LaVerne creates a “safe space” in which hard truths are presented. – Catherine Crockett, President, Monterey Peace and Justice Center
Ms. McLeod’s book takes on the challenge of integrating the effects of global change on the environment at large—increasing temperatures, sea level rise, increased fire danger, reduction in agricultural production and other effects—with social justice issues that spell out the differential levels of these stressors on different groups of people. She has truly done her homework in creating this synthetic analysis! This is a synthesis that has been begging to be done, and Ms. McLeod has more than risen to this task. – George Somero, The David and Lucille Packard Professor of Marine Science Emeritus currently working at Stanford University’s Hopkins Marine Station
Your book is a way to come together and grow in our resolve to learn ways to be a part, not an unmoved bystander, in a movement we all hold dear.”- Maria Byford, Educator and Social & Climate Justice Advocate
Published by Purple Feather Press
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Testimonies
Corn Hollow - A Journey of Sorrow and Triumph
“Your gift for storytelling shines through the poetic descriptions of the land and the people as well as the genius of the dialogue you compose and the whole achingly beautiful arch of your narrative. Your book, to me, stands out as an important contribution to the American novel, to the truth and reconciliation that is needed in our country and in our own hearts.” – Heather Zunguze, Educator & Writer
“Do not read this book if you wish to skim through an unthinking summer afternoon. This family became three-dimensional, real people for me by Chapter 2. Ms. McLeod tells a moving story of a black family in the South whom the reader senses will be deeply changed by the Civil Rights Movement that is on their horizon. I grieved for the mother fiercely battling to keep her family safe with the familiar Southern framework of tolerated black behavior where daily harm is familiar, casual, and continual and only occasionally turns murderous. I became deeply concerned for the child Tamara whose loving innocence is threatened by the approaching changes. Ms. McLeod is a brilliant, subtle and powerful writer.”
– Penny Vieregge, Educator
Published by Purple Feather Press
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You pay no PayPal service fee