Speaking

Uprooting Epistemicide

This is a recorded lecture from December 6, 2019 at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Social Work

Shawna conducted a theory-focused, independent study, exploring and challenging how a given theory impacts the execution of sound research through an exploration of ontology and epistemology as well as concepts of decoloniality and liberation from an interdisciplinary prism.

The work inspired the development of insights through the interrogation of select theories and practices in social work, particularly in assessing the extent to which they uphold liberatory interests. These insights led the author to construct a set of inquiry practices and tools challenging social work theory and research practice.

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The Practical Applications of African Spirituality for Black Liberation

In this thought-provoking interview, Dayvon speaks with Shawna Murray-Browne, founder of Kindred Wellness, about the intersection of African spirituality and revolutionary struggles for Black Liberation. With a wealth of knowledge and experience as a healer, therapist, and community leader, Shawna shares valuable insights into the ways in which traditional African spiritual practices can provide practical tools and strategies for resistance and liberation in the face of systemic oppression. From embracing the power of ancestral wisdom to cultivating a sense of collective purpose and connection, this interview offers a unique perspective on the role of spirituality in social justice movements.

A Labor of Love: Cultivating Restorative Spaces for Women Activists, Healers & Caregivers

As part of Her Dream Deferred 2022, AAPF hosts a gathering centering Black women’s restorative care, “A Labor of Love: Cultivating Restorative Spaces for Women Activists, Healers, & Caregivers.” The event creates a ritual space for Black women to reflect on a praxis of love and healing. This event features conversations led wellness practitioners, followed by breakout sessions that invite participants to practice stillness, healing conversations, and journaling as a means of self-reflection and care.

Building Black Power (Part 2): Healing & creating Black Institutions 

In light of the recent global protests against racism, calls to #DefundThePolice and the ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic, one question has been repeatedly asked:

“How can the Black community create sustainable change for ourselves?”

The first discussion we hosted focused on why it is important for our community to focus on sustainable change.

For part two, this panel will look at the intersections of healing and institution building. Institutions are reflections of the people that build them. We will focus on the ways that healing can positively impact the development of Black institutions.

Therapy for Black Girls Podcast - Session 78: Mindfulness

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a Licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible version of ourselves.

Shawna Murray-Browne, LCSW-C is back with us this week to talk all about mindfulness. Shawna and I chatted about the definition of mindfulness, she addressed some of the myths you may have heard about mindfulness, she shared some ways you can begin to incorporate it into your life, and of course she shared her favorite resources.

The SDE Weekend 2: Mental Health & SDE Panel

In the Mental Health panel, panelists explored topics such as how we show up in self-directed education spaces? Can we be ourselves when we have a bad day? How can we hold space for those who have a mental illness, or for ourselves for that matter? How to dive into experiences when having different forms of anxiety, BPD, bipolarity etc.? How to take care of our mind, with intention, and with what the pandemic helped us learn?

Therapy for Black Girls Podcast -Session 46: Mental Health Needs of Activists

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible version of ourselves.

This week's episode features Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Shawna Murray-Browne. Shawna and I discussed some of the unique mental health concerns related to activism and advocacy, the importance of self care and boundaries for activists, and her work with other therapists to create spaces that are anti-racist and liberation focused.