During the first phase of DWYS we realised there were very few stories by and about women of colour in local archives.
This is why we created an archival training programme for women of colour. To address our historic erasure from the archives, and to create a space for us to do the exploring and recording instead of others.
We wanted to make the archives more accessible. We opened the doors of Sheffield City Archives after hours, discussed the archival experience and developed key archival and creative skills as a group. The aim was to ensure people could do this work confidently and comfortably in the future, either individually or as a collective. We also wanted to make clear that archives are everywhere. The body is an archive, our homes and communities are archives. All carry history and are rich with stories.
Working with WOC Azadi Collective we developed 6 workshops that took participants through this process of reflection, exploration and creativity.
Our first series took place between September 2023 - March 2024. Some brief reflections and images are shared below.
It was an emotional journey. As well as learning more about women of colour in Sheffield City Archives, Sheffield General Cemetery, Central Library and Burngreave Cemetery, we talked about the elders in our own lives, particularly our mothers. Laughs were had and tears were shed. At the end of each workshop we had an evening meal together, to commune and ground ourselves again.
Azadi held space for us, creating a sensory experience that honoured our ancestors. Artist and mentor, Dal Kular, also led an enriching zine activity for the final workshop, allowing everyone to capture their experience of the programme. A necessary and cathartic process.
