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On Being an R+R Facilitator – By Kevin Vowles,

I’ve co-facilitated the R+R curriculum and am amazed by not only  the remarkable thought which went into developing such an innovative violence prevention curriculum, but am equally ‘starstruck’ by the thoughts from students.  Hearing about what their experiences have been like, walking in both the more peaceful world that is Salt Spring Island, but also treading carefully in other less peaceful places. To say it has been an eye opener would be an understatement. I have seen and experienced violence in my life journeys, but the youth of today face different forms of violence and challenges than my generation did and it is my firm belief that the R+R program is giving them the tools to not only survive, but thrive!

Violence is a determinant of health – whether it is women being raped, young men being shot and killed, or more subtle forms of violence. Huge portions of the global population are starving because of the persistent focus of resources to perpetuate violence and the promotion of and advancement of corporations, instead of food security or health care.  For our children, most importantly, a climate of violence hinders their learning and development. I am in awe of the climate of learning at Gulf Islands Secondary School on Salt Spring Island. It is remarkable and enhanced by the Respectful Relationships program.

Where people, young and old, are encouraged to adopt a peaceful existence, and given the tools to not only be peaceful in their lives, but resolve conflict and unravel the layers of violence; society as a whole can live up to its truest potential. I see that here on Salt Spring Island in my day to day existence. Yesterday in a parking lot there was a group of young people hanging around their car. I was with my Mom who was visiting the island. I could see that she was slightly nervous because they were in her way, and she didn’t want to ask them to move, perhaps afraid of violence. The young people saw us and immediately said hello and moved out of the way so that she could get into the truck. I think little stories like this, while certainly not news-breaking, are inspiring, heart-warming and indicative of the culture of peace and respect for fellow human beings that is present. Not because it’s a great act of nobility or sacrifice, but because in bigger places; in more violent places, there would be the potential for an assault, particularly if there had been alcohol involved. I know it because I’ve experienced violence over less. It warmed my heart, and I thought I would share the story. I’d love to hear your stories of peace.
Kevin as been a R+R Facilitator since September 2020

 

Kevin Vowles R+R Adult Facilitator

Kevin has been working as an educator since 2020. His work has included teaching with the Disabled Sailing Association of British Columbia, volunteering in Africa with a community center focused on reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS, work at a Homeless Shelter in Toronto. Recently, Kevin taught with the Ditidaht First Nation, focusing on project based learning frequently using creative writing as a medium of expression.

He is the author of “21st Century Hippies: Activists in Pursuit of Peace and Social Justice.”  Kevin has been influenced by authors Paul Fleishman, Anne Cameron, Barbara Kingsolver, Tchich Naht Han, Ivan Coyote, Richard Van Camp, Nelson Mandela, Josh Ritter, Khaled Hosseini and Gord Downi.

 

Christina Antonick Adult Facilitator

Christina Antonick has worked as a social justice educator for the past 13 years. Christina attended McGill University in Montreal where she studied Communications, Women’s Studies and Fine Art. In 2020 she completed certification in a feminist counseling and facilitation training with a strong focus on anti-oppression practices. Christina is a visual artist and jewelry designer and her most important work to date has been the parenting of her two inspiring sons, Deva and Cedar.

 

 

 

For information about becoming a Facilitator, go to R+R Facilitator Training and watch our video.