Resources for Processing & Writing About War in Ukraine

Resources for Discussing the War in Ukraine

Many of us are feeling anxious and upset by what we are seeing and hearing about armed conflicts around the world, whether in the news or from family and friends directly or indirectly impacted. We have compiled a couple resources for mentees and mentors to discuss the war in Ukraine in an informed and respectful way.

Conflict in Ukraine Resource Guide from NYCDOE
Resources to Discuss the Events in Ukraine from San Diego County Office of Education

Watch our Salon, Belonging: From Refugee to Hollywood with Sepideh Moafi

Prompt #1: Finding Home

Define Home — what does it mean to you?
Where is home? What does it look like? What does it feel like — Smell? Taste? Sound?
What was your relationship to home when you were 10-years-old? What’s your relationship to home now?
How has your perception or relationship to the feeling of home changed over time? How has it changed since entering lockdown and adopting social-distancing rules?
Describe your first memory of feeling at home.

Prompt #2: Where Do I Belong?

What does it mean to belong?
What gives you a sense of belonging? When do you feel like you belong? And where?
Do you think we as humans need to have a sense of belonging? Why/why not?
Who do you feel has a strong sense of belonging? What does that look like in them?
When was the last time you felt a sense of belonging? Describe this memory.

Prompt #3: Music and Free Write

Allow the themes of home and belonging to stay with you while you close your eyes and listen to the music. Try to sit or lie down in a position where your body can remain open (uncrossed legs, arms relaxed to your side, relax shoulders and jaw). Let your imagination go wild. After two minutes (I will cue us in), begin free writing. Jot down anything that comes up, even if it doesn’t seem to make sense or seems unrelated. Keep writing the entire time, and try to maintain a connection to the music while you write.