Welcome to the Council for the Forbidden, a sacred space for
heartfelt expression and deep listening on taboo topics.
heartfelt expression and deep listening on taboo topics.
Third Tuesdays of each month
1:00-2:00 pm Arizona Time
Virtual via zoom
Free for the Wild Wayfarer Community
Council for the Forbidden
is intended to be a safe and sacred space to explore topics that are taboo or challenging to speak openly about in day-to-day conversations. |
This free offering
is open to all humans, not limited to Flagstaff residents. Topics will change each month, typically covering themes such as death, grief, environmental loss, human rights issues, sexuality, late-stage capitalism, and more. |
This virtual space
is not intended for coming up with solutions, educating other participants, or even thinking strategically about these topics. Rather, this is a space to feel deeply and express without judgment. |
Community Guidelines
By joining this community, you agree to uphold the following guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants:
- Heart-Centered Communication: We commit to speaking and listening from the heart. We encourage vulnerability, honesty, and authenticity in our expressions.
- Confidentiality: What is shared in the Council for the Forbidden stays within the Council for the Forbidden. We respect the privacy and confidentiality of all participants and their stories. As a virtual gathering, we agree to wear headphones or participate from a room where NO others are present who may overhear.
- Non-Judgment: We embrace a culture of non-judgment and acceptance. We recognize that each individual's experiences and perspectives are valid and worthy of respect, regardless of whether we agree with them.
- Active Listening: We practice active listening, giving our full attention to the speaker without interrupting or formulating responses while they speak. We honor each person's unique journey by holding space for their expressions to be heard.
- Empathy and Compassion: We hold empathy and compassion towards ourselves and others. We acknowledge the emotional weight of the topics discussed and offer support and understanding to those who share their experiences.
- No Fixing, Problem-Solving, Preaching, Explaining, Convincing or Advising: We refrain from offering advice, solutions, or attempting to "fix" others' problems, or the world’s problems. We refrain from persuading, challenging, debating, or “figuring out.” When sharing, we express our feelings, emotions, and lived experiences, rather than “thoughts” on a topic. This is an emotive space, not a strategic or cerebral one.
- Respect for Boundaries: We honor each participant's boundaries and consent. We refrain from pressuring anyone to share more than they are comfortable with and respect their decision to pass if they choose.
- Diversity and Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, and belief systems. We create a welcoming space for all individuals, recognizing the richness that different perspectives bring to our council space.
- Respect for Zoom Etiquette: We adhere to Zoom etiquette guidelines, such as muting ourselves when not speaking, refraining from distracting behaviors, and respecting the facilitator's guidance.
- Commitment to Non-Harm: We are committed to creating a space free from harassment, discrimination, or any form of harmful behavior. Diving into vulnerable “forbidden” topics has an inherent danger: participation may lead to discomfort, trigger activation, and highly emotional experiences. It is essential that we hold each other’s vulnerability with care. Any behavior that is disrespectful, offensive, or harassing will not be tolerated, and appropriate action will be taken to address such incidents, including potential removal from the community. We prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants and strive to ensure that the Council for the Forbidden remains a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone.