Thank you to those who signed up for and were able to attend the Radical Self-Care 101 Workshop that was led by Dr. SooJin Pate. The materials and activities presented during the workshop created excellent opportunities for self-exploration and introspection. We learned about how creating safe spaces and healthy boundaries can be essential to our health. The slides from her presentation are linked here.

Sam Taitel [they/them] is a Mixed, Black and Ashkenazi, Queer community organizer, martial artist, and facilitator living on occupied Dakota, Lakota, Nakota, and Anishinaabe lands, colonially named Minneapolis, MN. They began practicing Aikido, a Japanese martial art centered on embracing conflict and bolstering connectivity, in 1999 and have achieved the rank of sandan (third-degree black belt). Sam is recognized as an internationally influential instructor, panelist, moderator, and practitioner. Sam serves as the Program Manager in the Midwest for Nonviolent Peaceforce where they strive to nourish individual safety and mutual protection through hyperlocal relationship building, authenticity, and body forward inquiry. They deeply believe that uplifting people’s capacities to be sensitive and aware can radically shift how we share this world together; we must notice to care.

• Increase the frequency of your check-ins with your partnerships.
• Sign up for the February 1's Self-Awareness for Intentional Interactions Workshop.
• Prepare for the second TDE cycle - sign up for your pre-observation, observation, and post-observation meetings.

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik

In December, we gave you the booklet, "Noise Refuge and Wellness," a pen, and a postcard. Read the booklet and respond to the prompt: What resonated with you? Share your response on the postcard and return it to Yen Huynh-Vue at the District Office no later than February 10, 2023 to earn CEU.

Register for FREE Innocent Classroom Events to support your students. "The Innocent Classroom Community is a passionate group of educators creating spaces liberated from racial bias and negative narratives through relationships. This community gathers regularly to envision and build our pathways to humanity-centered educational spaces together! All educators across roles and experiences are welcome and encouraged to join this vibrant community movement for the Innocence of our children, free of charge."

Coleman Candles: Featured at the January 11th Workshop. Try lighting a Coleman Candle to create the perfect ambience. They are handmade, crafted, and sold by Tyson Coleman. His website is www.colemancandle.co and @colemancandleco on Instagram!

Coco’s Place: Coco's Place, was featured at the January 11th Workshop. This family owned restaurant, Coco’s Place, is located at 306 Division St S, Northfield, MN 55057. They are closed Sundays but open all other days from 11AM-8PM. Check out this news article for more information. Try the carne asada, street tacos, mole platters, tamales, and the burritos.

Puffy Cream Donuts: Donuts are always a yes! Puffy Cream Donuts is a person of color-owned donut shop located at 3390 Coachman Rd, Eagan, MN 55121. Their donuts are revered as some of the best in the area, maybe even the best ever. They almost closed during the pandemic, but due to the popularity of the donuts, and respect for the owners, the community rose up to support Puffy Cream Donuts and kept them around. Check out their Facebook.Try them out! You will NOT be disappointed!

Lunar New Year: Lunar New Year is celebrated by different Asian cultures! Learn more.

• In the Korean culture, it is called Seollal.
• In the Chinese culture, it is called the Spring Festival.
• In the Vietnamese culture, it is called Tết Nguyên Đán or Tết for short.
• It takes place on January 22nd, 2023. 2023 is the Year of the (Water) Rabbit for many, but also the Year of the Cat in Vietnamese culture. It is a time to reunite with family and remember those who have passed.
  

Participate in Lunar New Year celebrations!

• Check out these family friendly events.
• Check out events in Minneapolis.
• Check out Google Arts & Culture for visual arts, facts, activities, and more.