Our mission is to To empower growth, nurture community, and foster meaningful change through accessible, neuroinclusive, trauma-informed practices in and through the fine, performing, literary, and healing arts. Consult with Kristine simplifies the journey of transformation, providing guidance, support, and strategic solutions to foster sustainable, impactful endeavors in the arts and culture, health and well-being, and social justice sectors.
Our vision is an equitable society where all individuals can thrive, achieve their potential, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
We challenge the unsustainable pace and values of imperialist, white supremacist capitalist patriarchy (IWSCP) by infusing purpose-driven strategies in areas such as mission-driven marketing, integrative arts and arts-integrated education, and community-focused facilitation.
We envision and curate safe spaces and brave places that serve as incubators for creativity, learning, and transformation, rooted in self and community care in a way that simplifies the complex and empowers individuals and organizations to achieve their full potential.
Core Values
Rest: Recognizing the importance of rest as a form of resistance against oppressive systems and a vital part of well-being.
Joy: Valuing joy as a means of self-determination and an essential component of personal and communal health.
Justice: Committing to equity and social justice, working actively to dismantle systemic oppression and support marginalized communities.
Guiding Principles
Rest as Resistance: A concept pioneered by artist and activist Tricia Hersey, The Nap Bishop, recognizes the importance of rest and self-care as acts of defiance against oppressive systems that prioritize constant work and productivity.
Pleasure Activism: A concept developed by writer and activist adrienne maree brown, posits that reclaiming pleasure and joy are forms of resistance against forces that seek to control and repress our bodies and desires.
Kincentric Eco-Womanism: Concept by Kristine N. Leslie. Centers Black & Indigenous women in environmental & earth justice; Draws on Womanism, Ecowomanism (environmental justice for WoC & spiritual connection to nature - ecowisdom), Ecofeminism (nature & women's domination parallels), & Kincentric Ecology (Indigenous knowledge & nature kinship); Focuses on reparations & intersectional solutions informed by these unique perspectives.
Afrofuturism: A cultural movement encompassing art, literature, and theory that envisions and creates alternative realities centering Black experiences and dismantling oppressive structures. Pioneered by figures like Sun Ra, Samuel R. Delany, and Octavia Butler, Afrofuturism continues to evolve through the work of contemporary artists, writers, and activists.
Emergent Strategy: A framework for navigating complex and ever-changing systems, emphasizing adaptability and improvisation. Popularized by writer and activist adrienne maree brown, drawing inspiration from various sources including Octavia Butler's work, Emergent Strategy encourages collaboration, experimentation, and continuous learning in the face of uncertainty.
These values and guiding principles resonate with the potential of integrative arts and well-being to address the challenges of IWSCP and create spaces for healing, liberation, and social change. They offer a holistic framework that goes beyond individual well-being to encompass collective empowerment and action.
Theory of Change Statement
Consult with Kristine fosters accessible, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive programs in the arts, education, and advocacy to challenge structural inequities perpetuated by Imperialist, White Supremacist, Capitalist Patriarchy (IWSCP). By empowering communities through inclusive spaces that nurture well-being, amplify marginalized voices, and inspire systemic change, we envision a flourishing society rooted in resilience, creativity, and justice.
Core Components of the Theory of Change
Inputs:
Community Engagement: Collaborations with artists, organizations, and community members.
Resources: Funding, facilities, and educational materials for program implementation.
Expertise: Knowledge and skills in trauma-informed practices, arts education, and advocacy.
Networking: Partnerships with local and national organizations focused on social justice and arts.
Outputs:
Programs and Services: Delivery of arts-based workshops, mental health initiatives, and community events.
Training and Development: Workshops and resources for arts educators, practitioners, and community leaders on inclusivity and accessibility.
Advocacy Campaigns: Initiatives to promote the value of arts in health and social justice, including public awareness efforts.
Outcomes:
Short-Term: Increased participation in arts and well-being programs; heightened awareness of mental health resources; strengthened community networks.
Medium-Term: Enhanced mental, emotional, and physical well-being among participants; increased access to arts and cultural experiences; empowered community members advocating for their needs.
Long-Term: A transformed societal view of the arts as integral to public health and social justice, leading to systemic change that dismantles barriers and fosters equity.
Impact:
Through arts-integrated approaches to health, education, and advocacy, we aim to create a more equitable society where everyone has access to the resources and opportunities necessary for flourishing. This will manifest in reduced disparities in health and well-being, increased representation of marginalized voices in the arts, and a sustained commitment to justice and equity in community practices.
Welcome to Maple Nation, a bioregion that encompasses the Northeast region of what is colonially known as New Jersey. Although Consult with Kristine operates remotely and extends our services across the United States, Turtle Island, we are mindful of the land and water upon which we live, work, and connect with communities.
We acknowledge that Maple Nation is situated within the traditional territory of diverse Indigenous peoples who have nurtured and protected this land and its waterways for countless generations. Specifically, we recognize that the Leni-Lenape people are the original stewards of this region, with a profound history and ongoing connection to this land and its waters.
In honoring the Leni-Lenape and other Indigenous communities, we pay tribute to their elders, past and present, and express gratitude for their enduring contributions to the land, water, culture, and collective well-being.
As we engage in our work within Maple Nation and across Turtle Island, we understand the importance of recognizing and respecting the Indigenous peoples who have cared for and sustained these territories, both on land and in the waters that surround them.
In the spirit of unity and understanding, let us walk together with respect, humility, and a commitment to supporting the rights and thriving of Indigenous communities. This water and land acknowledgment is a step toward reconciliation and building a more equitable future.
May our actions and words demonstrate our dedication to learning, unlearning, and fostering meaningful relationships with the original inhabitants of this land and its waters, guiding us on a path of shared stewardship and appreciation for all that Maple Nation provides.
We acknowledge that data equity and digital technological colonialism are deeply intertwined. Systems of data collection, analysis, and use have the potential to perpetuate injustices and reinforce existing power disparities. We are committed to the following principles in addressing these concerns:
Data Equity: Actively working to dismantle structures that create inequities in how data is collected, used, and interpreted. We commit to prioritizing the rights and needs of marginalized communities, ensuring data serves their interests and empowers them rather than furthering their exploitation.
Transparency: Being transparent about the ways in which data and algorithms can perpetuate digital technology colonialism. This includes being honest about potential biases, limitations, and how these systems might uphold structures of oppression.
Accountability: Taking responsibility for the social, cultural, and economic impacts of our data and technology work. This includes proactively addressing any potential for harm and making amends where necessary.
Community Empowerment: Centering the voices and perspectives of communities directly impacted by digital technology colonialism. We will work collaboratively to build data and technology solutions that prioritize community ownership, self-determination, and liberation from oppressive systems.
Continuous Learning: Staying informed about the evolving nature of data equity and digital technology colonialism. We will continuously learn, adapt our practices, and engage in critical reflection to ensure our work contributes to a more just technological landscape.
We believe that addressing these issues is crucial in harnessing the power of data and technology for the betterment of all, working towards a future free from [digital] exploitation and oppression.