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Women and Psychedelics Launch Event

Women and Psychedelics Launch Event

TUESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2024, 6:00-7:30 PM PDT

Women and Psychedelics Virtual Launch Event

In the ever-expanding conversations around psychedelic medicines and their multitudinous histories, women’s voices and stories have been excluded and even suppressed. What profound contributions are living outside of this patriarchal lens? How do we understand the role of women in psychedelic history and the emergent present?

Join historian and co-editor of Women and Psychedelics: Uncovering Invisible Voices, Erika Dyck in conversation with Belinda Eriacho, Mikaela de la Myco, and Maria Mangini in highlighting some of the seminal women who have shaped, and continue to shape, the psychedelic landscape. This intimate, intergenerational conversation will explore the roles women have played in care work, from ritual rites of passage in the transpersonal domains of birth and death to the vital role that elders play in the psychedelic community. We will also examine how traditional gender norms have shaped the way psychedelics are perceived and utilized, using intersectional frameworks to explore how we can collectively create a more inclusive and equitable space for all.

This is a virtual event that will be hosted by City Lights on the Zoom platform.

Attend at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82420182310

 

About the speakers

Erika Dyck is a Professor and Canada Research Chair in the History of Health & Social Justice at the University of Saskatchewan. She is the author or editor of several books and articles on the history of psychedelics, including: Psychedelic Psychiatry (2008); Psychedelic Prophets (2018), A Culture’s Catalyst (2016) Wonder Drug (2021), Acid Room (2022); Expanding Mindscapes (2023) and Psychedelics: A Visual Odyssey (2024). Erika was the co-editor of the Canadian Journal of Health History (2015-2023) and is currently the President of the Alcohol and Drugs History Society. She is also a co-editor of the recently published, Women and Psychedelics: Uncovering Invisible Voices (2024).

Mikaela de la Myco comes from a blended ancestry.  Her ancestors come from southern italy, the caribbean and mexico and she uplifts their perspectives in the space of entheogens.In her everyday life, Mikaela serves as a mother, an educator, a folk herbalist, a community organizer and entheogen facilitator in occupied Kumeyaay & Luiseno territory, also known as San Diego, CA. She cares for all people with ancestral healing ways and holds special focus in serving small-businesses, cooperatives, non-monogamous people, psychedelic families, femmes and people seeking full-spectrum herbal womb care. She has collaborated as an educator and activist with hundreds of companies and organizations within the sacred earth medicine space and is well known as a maternal caretaker in the community. Her platforms, Mama de la Myco and the mushWOMB generate educational content that weaves the tapestry of medicine woman, psychedelic mother and sacred hoe.  In all her creations, Mikaela de la Myco has made the commitment to rematriate entheogens by advocating for ethics and womb to tomb psychedelic literacy.  Her most recent movement, Mothers of the Mushroom is an open source research and resources project meant to further permission the world into remembering that psychedelics are for families.

Maria Mangini, PhD, FNP, completed her doctorate in Community Health Nursing at University of California, San Francisco, where her research on drugs and drug policy explored the impact of historic LSD use in the lives of middle-aged adults. She was the director of the MSN/FNP program at Holy Names University in Oakland for 20 years. For 25 years, she was in family practice with Frank Lucido MD, and theirs was one of the first to add medical cannabis to the family practice armamentarium. She is co-founder of the Women’s Visionary Council, which supports the work of women scholars, artists, healers and visionaries through a series of conferences, workshops and grants. Her interests currently center on the study of death and dying.

Belinda Eriacho is of Dine’ (Navajo) and A:shiwi (Pueblo of Zuni) descent. Her maternal clan is One-Who-Walks-Around and she was born for the Zuni Pueblo people. Belinda was born and raised on the Navajo reservation, located in Arizona, United States of America. She is the wisdom carrier, healer, and founder of Kaalogii LLC, focused on cultural and traditional teaching, inner healing, and an international speaker on various topics impacting Native American communities in the United States. Belinda holds degrees in Health Sciences, Technology, and Public Health. In addition, Belinda has participated in the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, MDMA People of Color, and Eye Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy Training Programs. Belinda is also a Founder and Board member of the Church of the Eagle and the Condor, a Program Advisor for Naropa University, and a Native American Traditional Advisor for SoundMind. She is the author recent articles that are available on charuna.net:  “Considerations for Psychedelic Therapist when working with Native American People and Communities”, “Guidelines for Inclusion of Indigenous People into Psychedelic Science Conferences” and “This is not Native American History, this is US History with Belinda Eriacho”.  In addition, a contributing author to the recently published Psychedelic Justice: Toward a Diverse and Equitable Psychedelic Culture (Synergetic Press, 2021).

Our Synergetic Press Host: Fernanda Baraybar is a transpersonal psychologist, marketing specialist, writer, and practicing Shaman. Working with the Qero communities of Peru, she’s helping keep her ancestors’ traditions alive by learning from their ancient practices. Currently, she’s working as a Marketing Freelance Consultant for Synergetic Press, her passion moves her to create for organisations focused on the expansion of consciousness. She is pursuing an MSc in Spirituality, Consciousness, and Transpersonal Psychology at the Alef Trust with the aim of creating further research on parapsychological phenomena.

 

 

Rising from the Ashes: Stan Grof, the Phoenix Painting, and Psyche Unbound

Rising from the Ashes: Stan Grof, the Phoenix Painting, and Psyche Unbound

Rising from the Ashes: Stan Grof, the Phoenix Painting, and The Psyche Unbound

In the rich tapestry of psychological and psychedelic exploration, few names resonate as profoundly as Stanislav Grof. Renowned for his groundbreaking work in transpersonal psychology and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, Grof’s contributions have expanded our understanding of the human psyche and touched countless lives. Among the many remarkable stories that surround him, one stands out for its profound symbolism and almost miraculous: the survival of the Phoenix painting during a devastating fire seen in the cover of his book Psyche Unbound

Stan Grof: A Luminary in Psychology

Born in Prague in 1931, Stan Grof embarked on a remarkable journey in psychiatry, becoming one of the leading researchers in the therapeutic use of LSD. His work at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center and the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California, has been nothing short of revolutionary. Grof’s theories on the perinatal stages of the human psyche and the potential of non-ordinary states of consciousness have cemented his place as a luminary in the history of psychology.

One of our copublished titles with MAPS is a tribute by dozens of thought leaders in the coto the contribution Stan Grof’s work has made in the world, The Psyche Unbound: Essays in Honor of Stanislav Grof, features a striking cover image: a painting of a golden Phoenix. This mythical bird, known for rising from its own ashes to be reborn, is a powerful metaphor for the transformative experiences Grof has dedicated his life to studying and facilitating.

The Phoenix Painting: An Emotional Journey

The story of the Phoenix painting is not just one of artistic beauty but also of profound personal and symbolic significance. Nearly 20-30 years ago, Grof himself painted this mandala/seal for his perinatal matrices symposiums. This painting, depicting a golden Phoenix rising from fire and taking flight, was a representation of the themes central to his work—rebirth, renewal, and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.

Tragically, Grof’s home in Mill Valley was consumed by a devastating fire two decades ago. The flames engulfed his house, threatening to destroy invaluable documents, artworks, and personal mementos. Yet, amidst the charred ruins, one piece of art remained untouched: the Phoenix painting. This miraculous survival of one of the few original artworks from that era is laden with symbolic meaning, echoing the very essence of Grof’s life and work.

When the team behind The Psyche Unbound was considering cover art, the Phoenix painting naturally came to mind. Upon discovering this, Grof was overjoyed and expressed his heartfelt desire for it to be used. The painting’s backstory, coupled with its symbolic resonance, made it the perfect choice. It was as if the Phoenix itself had risen from the ashes once more to take its rightful place in celebrating Grof’s enduring legacy.

A Heartfelt Symbol of Hope and Renewal

The Psyche Unbound is more than just a collection of essays; it is a celebration of Stan Grof’s unparalleled contributions to psychology and our understanding of the human mind. The book delves into the expansive possibilities Grof has unveiled through his exploration of non-ordinary states of consciousness, psychedelic therapy, and the profound transformative experiences these can engender.

Each essay in the book reflects the core principles that Grof has championed throughout his career. The themes of death and rebirth, the potential for deep personal transformation, and the resilience of the human spirit are woven into the fabric of the essays. The Phoenix painting on the cover is not just an artistic choice; it is a living embodiment of these principles.

The survival of the Phoenix painting amidst the ruins of Grof’s home stands as a powerful symbol of hope and renewal. It is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit that Grof’s work has continually highlighted. In his research and therapeutic practice, Grof has shown that even in our darkest moments, there lies the potential for rebirth and transformation. The Phoenix, emerging unscathed from the ashes, serves as a poignant reminder of this potential.

In celebrating Stan Grof and his contributions through The Psyche Unbound, we are reminded that the journey of the psyche is much like the journey of the Phoenix. It is one of continual rebirth and transformation, where even the greatest challenges can lead to profound new beginnings. Grof’s life and work exemplify this journey, offering us a beacon of hope and a testament to the triumph of the human spirit.

In the end, the Phoenix painting’s survival and its place on the cover of The Psyche Unbound are perfectly symbolic. They capture the essence of Grof’s message: that amidst the ashes of our struggles, we can find the strength to rise, transform, and soar to new heights.

 

Want to know more about the Grof Legacy? 

Discover the transformative power of the Grof Legacy Training program, a comprehensive educational journey rooted in the pioneering work of Stanislav and Christina Grof. This program offers a deep dive into the realms of transpersonal psychology, holotropic breathwork, and expanded states of consciousness. Unlock new dimensions of self-awareness and healing by exploring this profound curriculum. To learn more about how you can embark on this enlightening path, visit the Grof Legacy Training website.

 

Psyche Unbound Book PR featured image

Looking to deepen your understanding of human consciousness? Psyche Unbound by Stan Grof is a must-read, offering profound insights into the mind and psychotherapy. Get your copy from our book catalog and embark on a transformative journey today!

click here to view Psyche Unbound

 

How Psychedelics Support the LGBTQIA+ Community

How Psychedelics Support the LGBTQIA+ Community

Transforming Consciousness: How Psychedelics Support the
LGBTQIA+ Community

In the ever-evolving landscape of consciousness, psychedelics have emerged as profound tools for personal and collective transformation. The kaleidoscopic experiences they offer can range from light-hearted moments with friends in a garden, realizing our shared humanity as “floating gloobs of meat carcasses,” to deep, introspective journeys that question our actions, beliefs, and the very essence of our being. 

In recent years, the LGBTQIA+ community has faced an alarming increase in violence and discrimination. For instance, 2023 saw the tragic deaths of 320 transgender women worldwide, a stark reminder of the deadly prejudice and hatred that still exist. Many of these individuals were murdered in acts of violence fueled by transphobia. This pattern of violence is not limited to one region but is a global crisis, affecting countries across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. The Human Rights Campaign reports that 2021 was the deadliest year on record for transgender and non-binary people in the United States, with at least 47 known violent deaths.

These statistics reflect only the cases that are reported and properly identified, suggesting the actual numbers may be even higher. The violence against LGBTQIA+  individuals extends beyond physical attacks to include psychological abuse, harassment, and systemic discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and education. LGBTQIA+  youth, in particular, face significant challenges, including higher rates of homelessness due to family rejection and bullying in schools. This pervasive environment of hostility and exclusion contributes to the high rates of mental health issues within the community.

Psychedelics can be the answer to our debilitating and oppressive belief systems around our LGBTQIA+  friends, offering unique and transformative perspectives, not only for the difficulties the community faces, but for those holding a perspective of division, marginalization and targeting.

The Power of Psychedelics in Healing and Understanding

Psychedelics open doors to understanding the intricate dance between our masculine and feminine energies. Traditional views of gender, often rigid and binary, can be transcended through the expansive lens of psychedelic experiences. When we explore the realms of our consciousness, we begin to see beyond material forms and into the universal laws that govern our existence. This deeper understanding can be particularly liberating for LGBTQIA+  individuals who face constant scrutiny and violence based on their gender identities and expressions.

The Hermetic Principle of Gender, also known as the Principle of Masculine and Feminine, is one of the seven foundational principles outlined in the ancient Hermetic text, the Kybalion. This principle posits that gender exists in everything and manifests as both masculine and feminine energies. These energies are not confined to physical sex or societal gender roles but are present in all aspects of existence, including thoughts, behaviors, and creation processes. Masculine energy is typically associated with attributes like assertiveness, logic, and initiative, while feminine energy encompasses qualities such as intuition, nurturing, and receptivity. The interaction of these energies is essential for creation and balance in the universe. 

Understanding and harmonizing the masculine and feminine within oneself can lead to greater self-awareness and spiritual growth, transcending binary gender concepts and embracing a more holistic view of existence.

A Historical and Cultural Perspective

The use of psychedelics in LGBTQIA+  communities is not a new phenomenon. Many ancient tribes recognized and revered the existence of a third gender, integrating these individuals into their cultural and social frameworks in meaningful ways. The Zapotec people of Oaxaca, Mexico, acknowledge the Muxes, who embody a blend of masculine and feminine traits and often hold respected roles in their communities. Similarly, the Native American cultures across North America recognize Two-Spirit individuals, a term that encompasses a range of gender identities beyond the male-female binary. Two-Spirit people often held special roles as healers, shamans, and spiritual leaders. In South Asia, the Hijra community, which has a history dating back thousands of years, is considered a third gender and plays significant roles in religious and cultural ceremonies. These societies typically treated their gay and third-gender individuals with respect, recognizing their unique contributions and often attributing to them spiritual significance. This acceptance contrasts sharply with the often rigid and exclusionary views seen in many modern societies.

In South Asia, the Hijra community, which has a history dating back thousands of years, is considered a third gender and plays significant roles in religious and cultural ceremonies. The Hijras, often involved in spiritual practices, have a deep historical connection with traditional medicine and rituals, which sometimes include the use of psychoactive substances for divination and healing.

The Fa’afafine of Samoa, individuals who embody both masculine and feminine traits, also have historical roles that blend spirituality and community leadership. In various indigenous cultures in the Philippines, the Babaylan (shaman) could be male, female, or gender-variant individuals, often playing pivotal roles in healing and spiritual practices using local psychoactive plants.

These societies typically treated their gay and third-gender individuals with respect, recognizing their unique contributions and often attributing to them spiritual significance. This acceptance contrasts sharply with the often rigid and exclusionary views seen in many modern societies.

However, the history of psychedelics in the LGBTQIA+ community is complex. In the 1950s and 60s, LSD was misused in harmful gay conversion therapies. Yet, as psychedelic research has progressed, there has been a growing awareness of the need to dismantle oppressive structures within the psychedelic movement itself. 

The anthology Queering Psychedelics: From Oppression to Liberation in Psychedelic Medicine, produced by the Chacruna Institute, addresses these issues, advocating for greater accessibility and diversity in psychedelic science and practice. One of the key topics discussed in the anthology is the historical misuse of psychedelics in harmful practices such as gay conversion therapy. In the mid-20th century, substances like LSD were used coercively in attempts to change individuals’ sexual orientation, causing significant psychological harm. The anthology acknowledges these traumatic histories and emphasizes the importance of understanding and learning from these past abuses to prevent their recurrence.

The anthology also critiques the psychedelic movement’s history of exclusionary practices, where research and participation have often been dominated by cisgender, heterosexual individuals. It highlights how these practices have marginalized LGBTQIA+ voices and experiences, limiting the diversity and richness of psychedelic science. The authors call for a reevaluation of research methodologies and inclusion criteria to ensure that studies encompass a broader range of gender identities and sexual orientations.

Queering Psychedelics advocates for inclusive and affirming research practices that consider the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. This includes designing studies that specifically explore how psychedelics can address the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities, such as higher rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD due to societal stigma and discrimination. The anthology underscores the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for LGBTQIA+ participants in both research settings and therapeutic contexts.

The collection highlights the healing potential of psychedelics for LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly in terms of fostering self-acceptance, healing trauma, and enhancing spiritual well-being. Essays within the anthology discuss personal narratives and case studies where psychedelics have helped individuals come to terms with their identities, process past traumas, and build resilience in the face of ongoing societal challenges.

Queering Psychedelics also addresses the need for greater diversity within psychedelic spaces, including conferences, workshops, and community groups. It calls for the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ voices in leadership roles and as speakers and facilitators, ensuring that the community’s perspectives are represented and valued. The anthology encourages the establishment of LGBTQ-friendly psychedelic integration circles and support groups where individuals can share their experiences in a safe and affirming environment.

The Road to Liberation

The emotional and psychological toll on the LGBTQIA+ community is immense, driven by constant exposure to violence, discrimination, and trauma. From childhood bullying to systemic inequalities and hate crimes, LGBTQIA+ individuals often face a barrage of negative experiences that deeply impact their mental health. This community experiences higher rates of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicide compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. The constant need to navigate a world that frequently marginalizes and targets them adds layers of stress and trauma that can be overwhelming.

Psychedelics as a Healing Modality

Psychedelics offer a fast and conscious healing approach that can address these deep-seated wounds. These substances have shown great promise in treating mental health conditions by facilitating profound psychological and emotional breakthroughs. Psychedelics like psilocybin, MDMA, and ayahuasca have been studied for their ability to help individuals process trauma, enhance emotional resilience, and foster a sense of connectedness and self-acceptance.

In a recent article, April Short discusses the potential of psychedelics to help gay men heal from the trauma of AIDS. The AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s left a lasting scar on the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly among gay men who witnessed and experienced immense loss and stigma. Psychedelics can offer a pathway to healing by enabling individuals to confront and process their grief and trauma in a safe and supportive environment. These substances can help individuals access buried emotions, reframe traumatic memories, and achieve a sense of peace and closure.

Creating Inclusive and Supportive Spaces

As we continue to explore the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, it is crucial to create inclusive and supportive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals. This means designing clinical trials and therapeutic sessions that are sensitive to the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+ people. Practitioners should be trained in cultural competence and LGBTQIA+ issues to provide a safe and affirming environment.

Inclusive psychedelic spaces should celebrate diversity and promote a sense of belonging. This can be achieved through community-led initiatives, such as LGBTQIA+ friendly psychedelic integration circles, support groups, and educational workshops. These spaces allow individuals to share their experiences, offer mutual support, and build a sense of community.

By fostering environments that respect and celebrate diversity, we can harness the power of psychedelics to promote healing, understanding, and liberation for all. Psychedelics have the potential to dissolve barriers between individuals, enhance empathy, and foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings. This can lead to greater acceptance and compassion within the broader society.

Moreover, the integration of psychedelics into therapeutic practices for LGBTQIA+ individuals can empower them to reclaim their narratives and find strength in their identities. It can help them heal from past traumas, build resilience, and envision a future where they are free from discrimination and harm. As we move forward, it is essential to advocate for policies and practices that support the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ voices in psychedelic research and therapy, ensuring that the benefits of these substances are accessible to all who need them.

 

A Call for Compassion and Understanding

In summary, the potential of psychedelics to heal the emotional and psychological wounds of the LGBTQIA+ community is immense. By creating inclusive and supportive spaces, we can harness the transformative power of these substances to foster healing, understanding, and liberation for all.

The conversation around psychedelics and the LGBTQ community is multifaceted and ongoing. As we move forward, it is essential to challenge and dismantle the heteronormative and transphobic norms that have historically excluded LGBTQ individuals from the psychedelic movement. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world where differences are celebrated rather than punished.

Featured photography by Upslash

Celebrating The Regenerative Landscaper by Erik Ohlsen – A Nautilus Book Award Winner!

Celebrating The Regenerative Landscaper by Erik Ohlsen – A Nautilus Book Award Winner!

Celebrating The Regenerative Landscaper by Erik Ohlsen – A Nautilus Book Award Winner!

We are thrilled to announce that The Regenerative Landscaper by Erik Ohlsen has been honored with the prestigious Gold Nautilus Book Award in the category of Restorative Earth Practices for 2024!

The Regenerative Landscaper is an awe-inspiring guide that weaves together permaculture design, food resiliency, climate adaptation, community organizing, and indigenous wisdom, providing practical advice that you can implement in your own backyard. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a large-scale permaculturist, this book offers a step-by-step manual that takes you from landscaping ideas to confidently planting seeds and trees.

Renowned permaculture designer, organizer, and teacher Starhawk praised the book, saying:
“Erik Ohlsen is one of the best permaculture designers, organizers, and teachers that I know—and this book draws on all those gifts. It’s full of clear, practical advice on creating regenerative landscapes, useful for homeowners who want to plant a small garden, professionals who want to run an ecological design business, and activists who want to know what are the best practices to advocate for. He explains technical and scientific information clearly and in an engaging and easily understandable way. But most of all, he infuses all of the work with a deep love for the natural world and a spiritual connection to nature. I’ll be using this book as a reference and a textbook for my students for years to come, and recommending it to friends who want to learn about resilient land practices, and to anyone who needs some practical, grounded hope.”

We are delighted to have Erik Ohlsen’s work recognized and included in the esteemed Nautilus Book Awards community, which celebrates authors and publishers dedicated to creating a better world. This award not only acknowledges the brilliance of Erik’s work but also assists in promoting “The Regenerative Landscaper” and increasing its visibility as a Nautilus Award Winner.

Stay connected with us on social media and join us in celebrating Erik Ohlsen’s achievement. Follow us for updates and help us honor the incredible contributions of authors like Erik Ohlsen who are making a positive impact on our world.

Congratulations to Erik Ohlsen and the entire team behind The Regenerative Landscaper for this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to seeing how this inspiring guide will continue to empower individuals and communities to create regenerative landscapes and foster a deeper connection with nature.

For more information about the Nautilus Book Awards and to explore the list of 2024 winners, visit our website and join us in celebrating Better Books for a Better World!

Psychedelic Culture: A Conference by Chacruna Institute

Psychedelic Culture: A Conference by Chacruna Institute

Cultivating Change Through Elevating Diverse Voices:

A Look Back at Chacruna’s Psychedelic Culture Conference

The psychedelic renaissance is upon us, a wave of renewed scientific and cultural interest in the therapeutic potential of mind-altering substances. But amidst the excitement, a crucial question arises: who gets to participate in and shape this new chapter? This is where the Chacruna Institute’s recent “Psychedelic Culture” conference offers guidance, cultivating a refreshing approach that combines intellectual rigor with community, activism, and a deep respect for tradition.

Chacruna, known for its interdisciplinary conferences, has a long history of bringing diverse voices to the table. This year’s event, themed “Cultivating Roots for Cultural Change,” embodied that spirit perfectly. The conference wasn’t just about the latest research findings, it fostered dialogue between scientists, Indigenous communities, activists, and everyday people who have a deep connection to these medicines. As the panelists mentioned, “it is more important than ever to promote dialogues” – dialogues that bridge the gap between intellectual inquiry and the lived experiences of those who have used these plants for generations.

One of the most powerful sessions, “Shaping our Future: Ensuring Equity and Access in the Psychedelic Renaissance,” tackled the issue of inclusivity head-on capturing the historical injustices that marginalized communities have faced in their relationship with psychedelics. The War on Drugs has disproportionately impacted these groups, creating a system where access to potential healing is hampered by fear and stigma.

Nicole T. Buchanan, associate Professor of Psychology at Michigan State University, Clinical Director and Founder of Alliance Psychological Associates, and member of Chacruna’s Board of Directors shares: 

“We have to create pathways for them to do the good work without being decriminalized, we have to look at how has the War on Drugs in our history of the commercial state of this country, really predetermined who will ever consider accessing care, and when we don’t come from that kind of lens, when we don’t think of how do we create access for those groups that are more marginalized, most surveilled and criminalized, and have the least reason that we have their best interest at heart, we will never be able to reach that population.” 

The panelists emphasized the importance of “creating pathways” for these communities to participate in the psychedelic renaissance. This requires examining how historical bias has shaped access to care and dismantling those barriers. It’s about “looking at the lens” of marginalization and creating a space where everyone feels welcome and represented.

But inclusivity goes beyond just numbers. It’s about fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience. The conference emphasized the importance of “bringing intention” to our work, allowing people to “see themselves in others.” This means acknowledging the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities and creating spaces where these experiences are heard and valued.

Unlearning the divisions that separate us is crucial in building a truly inclusive psychedelic community. Ritual can be a powerful tool for this, creating a “deeper connection” through shared experience. Moving away from the model of listening only to “dominant voices” and instead embracing a “circle” where everyone’s voice is valued, paves the way for a more just and equitable future.

Chacruna’s dedication to this theme extends beyond the conference itself. Their commitment is further reflected in two recent publications available through our website: Women in Psychedelics, Queering Psychedelics, and Psychedelic Justice. These insightful books offer a wealth of perspectives that challenge the status quo and open doors to a more diverse and equitable psychedelic future. The books explore topics like the role of female shamans in traditional psychedelic ceremonies, the experiences of women of color in the psychedelic renaissance, or the potential of psychedelics to help LGBTQIA2S+ individuals heal from trauma and explore their identities.

These books delve into the often-overlooked aspects of the psychedelic experience for these specific groups. Queering Psychedelics explores how LGBTQIA2S+ individuals navigate the psychedelic experience, dismantling stereotypes about these substances and fostering a more inclusive conversation. Topics such as experiencing a heightened sense of self-awareness and connection during a psychedelic experience can be particularly transformative for those questioning their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Women in Psychedelics also addresses the unique challenges and opportunities women face in the psychedelic realm. Discussions explore historical and cultural biases that have excluded women from psychedelic experiences, or the specific needs and considerations of women undergoing psychedelic therapy, such as the role of trauma and menstrual cycles.

The ideas explored at Chacruna’s Psychedelic Culture conference resonate deeply with the mission of Synergetic Press. As highlighted in a recent article on Chacruna’s website titled Psychedelic Culture and the Future of the Psychedelic Movement, Chacruna is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics by publishing works from a wide range of voices. 

Here at Synergetic Press, we are proud to offer a selection of Chacruna titles on our website. If you’re looking to delve deeper into the insights shared at the conference, we encourage you to explore these thought-provoking books. Whether you’re a seasoned psychonaut or just beginning your exploration, there’s sure to be a book that will spark your curiosity and guide you on your journey. 

Head to our catalog and discover the wealth of knowledge waiting to be explored!

Featured photography by the talented Karina Alvarez 

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