Last August, the RFC held its sixth Gathering at a progressive summer camp in rural western Massachusetts. 41 parents and their school-aged children from across the country joined three peer leaders (all of whom are former RFC beneficiaries), RFC Board, Staff, and workshop leaders for the four-day, three-night Family Gathering. The Gathering offered RFC beneficiary families an array of cultural workshops and recreational and social activities. The event was a powerful community builder for participants who have had similar experiences as a result of the activist parents’ work for social justice.
The RFC was honored to have a special funding partner for this Family Gathering. Income from the Eastmont Art Fund in Easthampton, MA, helped pay for arts professionals to teach the Gathering’s workshops including African Drumming and Dance, Writing, Latin Dance, Art and Music. Gatherings reflect the RFC’s belief that children in difficult circumstances deserve to have fun and relax while sharing experiences, and have become cherished events for our beneficiary families.
View video of the African Drumming and Dancing Workshop for Children
Quotes from participants:
“Being in a place where my daughter and I didn’t feel like we had a ‘secret’ to keep from the world was incredibly rewarding.”
“Thank you so much for giving us – especially our children—this space to reflect on, celebrate and be challenged about our resistance.” 
“The future is in the hands of our children and the RFC camp is ensuring that the work we do is carried out from generation to generation.”
“I loved the Salsa & Merengue dancing and drumming workshops. They were so fun and liberating.” Teen participant
“The kids said they liked everything about the Gathering and didn’t dislike a single thing. That’s as close to perfection as things get!”
“I met a lot of great people working to make a difference and I would love to see them again.” Teen participant
“This camp was amazing! I only wish the children of other activists had the opportunity to experience this kind of community.”
“This has felt like a combination rest, vacation, and also very deep and thoughtful discussion. I am so happy to have been involved. I am pleased that my children could be here to meet other children, other cultures, and to experience such kindness.”
“I feel lucky to be a part of this community – the financial support provided by the RFC is huge, but the emotional effect of the two Gatherings I’ve attended is immeasurable. Just like two years ago, I’ll leave today feeling re-charged and prepared and inspired to continue resisting the empire.” Peer leader/former beneficiary
To learn more about RFC Gatherings, click here.
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