We believe that it is so important to amplify the voices of all survivors. In a new twist on the Stargazing celebration, we invited a survivor to write and perform the star show attendees will get to enjoy at Abrams Planetarium tomorrow night. She has been working hard for months on researching stars, meeting with the brilliant planetarium staff and pouring her heart out for YOU.
Rachel Berzack (L) and her sister Dana.
Meet Rachel Berzack!
I am a 28 year old feminist, writer, advocate, wanderer and survivor. I graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in communication and a specialization in bioethics, humanities and society. I have been doing sexual assault intervention and prevention work for about 7 years now. My passions for social justice, creativity, yoga and nature are gently shoving me down career paths of story-telling and shamanic healing practices. I am a realist who believes in magic. I like people okay, but I am an extroverted introvert so I enjoy the company of animals way more. Harry Potter and a good cup of tea has saved my life more than once. I am a survivor of rape, sexual assault, stalking and relationship violence. I live with post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression, but I am learning how to befriend my shadows. I have participated in the Firecracker Foundation Soulfire calendar project, and the Tashmica Torok’s #WhyItold online storytelling project. But, I have never done anything like this before. My heart is so full of gratitude and love that I have the opportunity to be the Star Show Presenter. Owning our stories is one of the bravest things we could ever do. I am so honored to be able to do that with all of you by my side.
Tomorrow night, Rachel’s words will be illustrated in stars, galaxies and an asteroid or two. I promise, you do not want to miss your chance to catch the most powerful star show in town.
Get your tickets to tomorrow’s big celebration here: bit.ly/Stargazing2016
