an exercise in excavation:

externalizing our inner oppressors

a 'practicing freedom' workshop, with monica climaco

May 07, 2026
6:30 to 8:30 pm Central
 

in this workshop, we will examine some of the obstacles that stand in the way of our freedom and transformation. in particular, that piece of the oppressor which is planted deep within each of us*. whether it manifests as an inner critic or another similarly oppressive and difficult-to-deal-with part, we will excavate and uproot that piece. by externalizing, we can get to know it from a safe-enough distance, learn its origins and motivations, and begin to reclaim its power over us.

we'll be drawing from parts work and shadow work, while using a mix of improv, theatrics, creative play; all with a dose of whimsy. this workshop is for anyone who is doing their best to heal, grow, do good, stay aligned with their values and desires, and basically just live their lives and be, yet gets held back by that piece within. let's cultivate a practice for revolutionary change together.

"an exercise in excavation" is the first session of a 2-part reworking of "Practicing Freedom," which our school offered as a Somatic Practice Space last Spring. while we invite you to attend both, it is not mandatory to do so. that said, you may have a richer, more robust, more resolving experience from participating in both.

* “The true focus of revolutionary change is never merely the oppressive situations which we seek to escape, but that piece of the oppressor which is planted deep within each of us, and which knows only the oppressor’s tactics, the oppressor’s relationships.” -Audre Lorde

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A recording will be available for everyone who registers, so you can engage with the material and practice at your own pace again and again, and/or if you cannot attend live.

an exercise in excavation is set on a name-your-price scale, with a minimum of $22. If you have the capacity to offer more, we invite you to do so. Your contribution sustains the operations of the school, compensates the educators, and opens up access for folks in our community.