All too often labyrinth walks are facilitated in a familiar way to familiar people. My original idea for a workshop was to offer a variety of ways to experience the labyrinth beyond traditional walking meditation. We could dance the labyrinth, be led blindfolded, run or follow the lines instead of the paths but simply playing in the labyrinth felt too frivolous in these times of resistance against white supremacy and protests of patriarchy.
Perhaps time would be better served taking an honest look at shadow selves. How are we products of the cycle of socialization we grew up in, what are our hidden biases, and what is the effect of dominant culture on our labyrinth walks, workshops and our organization? These are difficult conversations we must have, but who would want to sit through them on a fine Fall day at the Gathering in October?
Then it occurred to me– we could have fun approaching the labyrinth in new ways and these experiences could yield insights on the value and opportunity for greater inclusion and equity in the labyrinth community. Through group walks, partner exercises, shared reflection, and deep listening, we will experience an ancient archetype in new ways. A presentation will further illustrate examples of labyrinth practices in underrepresented and international communities. By experiencing diverse approaches to the labyrinth we can better understand how to truly create pathways for people from all walks of life.