FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) ABOUT THE GANDMOTHER COUNCIL & LIVING EARTHCIRCLE:

Where did the idea for the Grandmother Council come from?
Women elders guiding the people is ancient, as is the concept of honoring the elders. Women elders have gathered for the sake of the people and the Earth throughout time.

Living Earth Circle's Grandmother Council project was begun by LEC founder and director, Lisa Pavati, in 2002. It was, and is, her intention to honor women elders and create a forum for their wisdom to be shared for the wellness of the people and the planet. Lisa was inspired by the "Grandmother Speaks Walk", when a group of women elders walked from town to town (on the American East Coast). They invited the women elders to gather and speak, and encouraged community members to attend- and support in silence. The Grandmother Council session of our annual conference is modeled after this example. Other aspects of the conference, and the project, engage the voices of everyone.

How do I find out if I qualify as a 'Grandmother' or 'Woman Elder'?
You look within yourself, for you are the only one who can answer this question. Some things to think about might be: Are you post-menopausal? Are you, or would you like to be, 'Grandmothering' the community and planet (helping others, sharing your wisdom and inspiration, caring for the people and nature, mentoring, etc.)?

I'm not a woman elder, can I be part of this project?
Yes!

Why are certain women elders being honored at the conference?
The women being honored at the conference have been nominated by the community for their outstanding service in support of the wellness of individuals, the local and/or global community, and/or the environment. Nominations can be made throughout the year and Living Earth Circle selects honorees in the autumn.

How can I get involved with Living Earth Circle's Grandmother Council project, and other LEC projects and community events?
Volunteers can help with many aspect of Living Earth Circle's community projects, from pre-event planning to event staffing. Support with phone calls and community outreach and networking helps our projects blossom. Living Earth Circle's performance art ceremonies are a sharing of many people's talents with instrumentation, song, dance and ceremonial support offered by a joyful combination of individuals. Sponsors empower our community service endeavors with donations of products, services and financial support (such as advertising in event programs). Being on our mailing list and attending events are also wonderful ways to be part of Living Earth Circle's projects.