A potent collection of spells, rituals, poems, writings and artwork weaving a healing balm for survivors of sexual violence and those who love them.
"This awesome anthology opens with Barbara G. Walker's Remembering of a time "when woman was the world, and the world was woman", recalling the power, autonomy, mysteries, laws, secrets, healing, screams, voices, curses, rage, outrage, grief, rituals, and spells of women.
This is a challenging book, much needed in these dreadful times of the vile proliferation of sexual assault, rape, violence, cruelty, misogyny, sexual trafficking, racism, extreme sexism, and femicide. The shared experiences of trauma and profound suffering are harrowing, yet must be named to break the unholy silences. Society needs to hear the the sacred rage many women feel at the neglect, injustice and denial of their lived experiences.
As a Priestess I know how powerful and transforming rituals and spells can be, and this book is full of magnificent ones. The healings achieved against so many obstacles by many contributors offer powerful antidotes to the despicable wounding too many women still experience today because of toxic patriarchy. Spells and rituals can empower every reader to truly know every woman "is strong and sacred". To know they are heroic survivors, part of a support network of recovering women bravely carrying each other back into the truth of their healing, wholeness and divine presence.
I remember as a second wave feminist in the 70s and 80s genuinely believing that we would smash the patriarchy, yet today toxic masculinity and abuse seem more entrenched than ever. The theme of retribution running throughout is vital to encourage women to draw upon their innate power and innocence to cast spells, create rituals, seek justice, and ensure punishment for violators.
I admire and respect every woman who has contributed to this anthology, and the team whose vision and skills have created it. It takes huge courage to speak the hard and painful truth of horrendous abuse that no one should ever have to endure. My heart aches for, yet also loves, celebrates, and admires you all. Blessed be."
-Dr Lynne Sedgmore CBE, Priestess of Avalon, Healer, author of Goddess Luminary Leadership Wheel, Presence Activism, and Goddess Enneagram.
"Spells for Survivors is a powerful collection of art, poetry, and essays, along with spells and rituals, that addresses the grieving, rage, healing, and finally celebration of our selves as survivors of sexual abuse and rape. Woven together by editors Trista Hendren, Janet Rudolph, and Claire Dorey, this brilliant concept is supported by its widely varied contributions. Everyone will be able to find pieces they resonate with at their own place in the journey. I found the art work, by a variety of artists, particularly moving as it often combined rage and outrage with the power of reclamation and healing. This collection is fierce, vivid, and unwavering in its commitment to the expression and agency of survivors."
-Jane Meredith, author of Journey to the Dark Goddess and Aspecting the Goddess.
