Abstract:

Human being are epigenetically and spiritually connected to the ancestors through DNA which has powerful effects on our daily life, relationships and community as a whole. Indigenous people often refer to this as “blood memory,” an experience of holding both the traumatic and healing events of those who have gone before us within our hearts, minds and bodies. This talk focused on the impacts of historical traumas and how the past directly impacts the present day conditions individually and collectively. It talk also has a cultural focus on methods of healing which promote internal reflection, inter-connectedness and community building.

The speaker Ms Serene Thin Elk holds MA, LPC-MH, LAC, QMHP and is the Chief Behavioral Health Officer at SD Urban Indian Health and is an enrolled member of the Ihanktonwan Oyate (Yankton Sioux Tribe). She is passionate about addressing patterns of intergenerational transmission, and finding ways to help individuals, families and communities heal from the effects of historical traumas.