Belonging: Human Family and Web of Life
Publication information:
Abstract
In this experiential workshop, grounded in field and laboratory research inspired by the beauty and wonder of spiders, we explore belonging by investigating our interdependence within the web of life. Drawing upon reflective practices, Indigenous perspectives, and research transcending traditional disciplinary boundaries—including work at Harvard Medical School on spider silk and p53 proteins - we consider how understanding other species can inspire curiosity, imagination, and care-in-action. Through creative exercises, participants are invited to create, reflect and contribute to cultivating a deeper sense of belonging through shared inquiry. We close with a SpiderSongPrayer, led by Lola Mondragon and “Uncle Debbie” (Deborah) Guerrero & Sisters.
Presenter Biographies
Sarah Karikó, PhD, focuses on finding better ways to care for our interdependence, considering ecological and societal systems together. Her current research interweaves insights from spider silk to support our bodies cancer suppression cells aiming to transform our understanding and care for cancer with colleagues at Harvard Medical School.
Delores (Lola) Mondragón is a scholar practitioner of Native American and Indigenous Religious Traditions, U.S. disabled military veteran, and an enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation. Her work focuses on rematriation, militarism, rites-of-passage, ceremony, Two-Spirit ways of being, QWOC & Chicanx histories and testimonios.