Become a Witness; A Ritual Storytelling Experience

About this event

You are invited to Become a Witness

What does it mean to Be a Witness?

~It's more than hearing a story. It's showing up, listening empathetically, Through empathetic listening, we build the bridge to reconnect veterans and civilians, creating opportunities for connection, understanding, and community.

~Hear from WVE&T about how we're assisting veterans find their way home through the Reintegration Empowerment Model, and why our communities have an important role in the journey home.

What is Ritual Storytelling?

~In ancient warrior cultures, storytelling was an essential part of homecoming. Warriors shared their experiences; civilians listened and shared what had happened in their absence, and communities reunited.

~WVE&T brings this tradition into the present through Ritual Storytelling, creating a space where veterans can release their stories without being re-traumatized by their experiences.

~To Be a Witness is to take part in that homecoming.

Ritual Storytelling is more than a performance. It's a homecoming.

EVENT DETAILS

Venue: Juxahub • 375 S 10th St, Emmaus, PA 18049

Date: Thursday, December 3, 2026 • 7PM-9PM

*Handicapped Accessible

*FREE PARKING!

KEY FOCUS

• Amplify veteran voices.

• Provide a secure space for veterans, families, and civilians to be heard.

• Strengthen connections between veterans, families, and the community.

• Recognize women veterans and all who served.

• Valuing the art of storytelling, offering part-time employment for military veteran and family public speakers.

What to Expect:

6:30pm: Arrive, Meet and Mingle.

7pm: Ritual Storytelling Begins:

~Opening with the Master of Ceremonies- Corinna Brown guides the audience and storytellers on how to 'hold space' in the sacred practice of storytelling.

~The Warrior Speech, Jenny Pacanowski - explaining “Why are we here” and “Why is it important to witness the stories of veterans and their families,” an ancient practice for thousands of years.

~Stories of Military Veterans and Family of Veterans

8pm - Intermission

8:15pm:

~Stories of Military Veterans and Family of Veterans

8:45pm:

~Community Reflections

9pm: Continue the Conversation with your families and communities.

This event is supported by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

HOSTED BY:

Juxahub