Going to Munich, Germany for the Clowns w/out Borders International General Assemby

I am excited to be traveling to Munich, Germany, to attend the Clowns Without Borders (CWB) International General Assembly. My journey with CWB began six years ago as a volunteer artist during my first tour to the Bahamas in December 2019. Looking back on that time, it feels like a different world, especially considering how the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our work. Back then, our Atlanta hospital clown care team was actively engaged, bringing joy and comfort to children and families in healthcare settings. Today, our work is still vital, but with different challenges.

My passion for clown work, particularly with CWB and hospital clowning, stems from the unique intersection of creativity and community service. This upcoming assembly provides a platform for artists and administrators from CWB chapters around the globe to unite and share insights. Participants will include representatives from England, South Africa, Brazil, Spain, France, and Sweden and others. I remember my experience at the last general assembly in Barcelona, Spain, where I made some connections. I look forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and making new friends this time around.

As I get ready, one concern is on my mind: the political environment affecting our work. Here in the United States, the current administration has not fostered an atmosphere of kindness or collaboration with our international neighbors. At times, it has been outright hostile, which is in stark contrast to the principles of empathy and compassion that are foundational to what we do. During the assembly, I am eager to engage with fellow artists and administrators in meaningful discussions about how we can continue our mission despite these challenges.

Several weeks ago I participated in a virtual panel discussion with fellow CWB USA board members: Victoria Te You Moore, Tim Cunningham, Amrita Dhaliwal, and CWB Executive Director Frankie Thompkins. This panel was part of a broader online conference that gathered clown artists from various backgrounds. We delved into the significance of our work, the trauma responses we observe in the populations we serve, and the history of how CWB has evolved. It was enlightening to explore the lessons we've learned that equip us to better support the communities we engage with and enhance the impact of our clowning work.

At its core, clowning is about fostering empathy and connection. Our work at Clowns Without Borders embodies this principle, as we work to create moments filled with humor, presence, and compassion that can uplift those we encounter. We engage in social initiatives designed to cultivate safe spaces where children can experience the joy of being kids, regardless of their circumstances.

You can view the panel discussion here

https://youtu.be/vuql1KeDzZI?si=FuTeLKJ7dbJx8hCv

Meanwhile, I will continue to share updates about the details of the general assembly in Munich on my blog as we carry on with our mission of serving others through clown work.