We’re so grateful for the paradigm-shifting and inspiring life and work of Joanna Macy, PhD, who passed away on July 19 at the age of 96.
Joanna was a legendary ecological activist, pioneer in the field of grief work and spiritual activism, and a beloved educator and facilitator – especially for those reckoning with climate destruction.
A tribute from her students notes that Joanna, along with fellow researchers and collaborators in the 1970s, discovered that “when a group of concerned people spoke to each other about their fears, their terror, and even their despair, a spirit of connection arose in the group, and a clarity of focus and release of energy fueled strategic planning and action.”
Joanna went on to design the Work That Reconnects – a framework and collection of practices that guide participants on a shared journey from despair to connection, empowerment, and hopeful action.
Joanna generously shared her work with Dayenu and networks of facilitators and friends (including Jen Myzel, facilitator for the Work That Reconnects and Dayenu, and Rachel Binstock, facilitator and Dayenu Spiritual Adaptation visionary).
The Work That Reconnects inspired and continues to inform Dayenu’s Spiritual Adaptation work, in particular, the foundational “spiral” of the Work That Reconnects: Grounding in Gratitude, Honoring Our Pain for the World, Opening to New Possibilities, and Going Forth into Action.
- For more on Joanna Macy’s life and work, please visit the memoriam.
- Podcast interviews with Joanna Macy and practices from the Work That Reconnects.
- Joanna Macy’s website
- The Work That Reconnects website
- Active Hope website and trainings
- “A Wild Love for the World” — Joanna Macy in conversation with Krista Tippett on the On Being podcast