Time to close the magical circle we drew together with our dirty nails.
Join Forij and atmosphere-maker melissandre varin for an enlightening urban foraging hike through the hidden green corridors of Digbeth. This unique event invites participants to explore the rich narratives of dirt, displacement, and belonging through the lens of soil ecology and human migration.
We'll explore 'dirt as displaced soil', discover the hidden ecosystems thriving within the urban landscape and contemplate the journey of soil as it transforms into dirt through displacement. We will reflect on how dirt, removed from its natural environment, loses its role as a vital life force, mirroring the experiences of displaced communities.
As we walk, we'll draw parallels between the displacement of soil and the stories of immigrants. Just as soil needs specific conditions to nurture life, so too do people who have been uprooted from their homes need support and understanding to thrive in new environments.
We'll engage in thought-provoking discussions focussed on the question 'What Does the Soil of Your Belonging Need to Thrive? and think about what elements are essential for fostering a sense of belonging and flourishing in a new place, reflecting on personal and communal needs for nurturing and growth. We'll also contemplate the cycles of life, death, and renewal present in both nature and human experiences, honoring the grief that accompanies loss and change while acknowledging the potential for new beginnings.
As a symbolic act of healing and restoration, we will collect dirt from the gallery space and ceremoniously return it to a natural area, reaffirming the connection between urban environments and the natural world.
And finally we will conclude the hike at Eastside Projects with a nourishing wild tea blending workshop. Learn about the medicinal properties of locally foraged plants and create your own custom tea blend to enjoy.
This event promises to be a profound exploration of ecology, community, and the interconnectedness of all life. Whether you're an avid forager, an urban explorer, or someone seeking deeper connections, this hike will offer fresh perspectives and meaningful experiences.
What to Bring: - Comfortable walking shoes - Weather-appropriate clothing
We have a budget that can cover travel costs if getting to Eastside Projects is a barrier to taking part. Email us on info[at]eastsideprojects.org if you would like to find out more.
About Forij
Jasdeep Sandhu is an Urban Forager, Ecologist, and Community Educator. She embodies a visionary approach to urban foraging, transforming it into a catalyst for profound societal change. With a foundation in Biological Studies and over a decade of field expertise, Jasdeep, together with her family who founded Forij in Birmingham, redefines foraging as a dynamic tool for environmental stewardship and community empowerment.
Areas of focus include
- Igniting ecological literacy and consciousness - Advocating for ecological and economic justice and access to natural spaces - Empowering sustainable practices rooted in Indigenous wisdom - Cultivating community building, health and well-being
Through her role leading field trips with Forij, Jasdeep exemplifies how foraging transcends mere sustenance, becoming a transformative force for ecological consciousness and community resilience. Through her visionary leadership and unwavering advocacy, Jasdeep inspires a movement towards sustainability, equity, and interconnectedness with the natural world. Jasdeep's dedication to foraging as a route to ecological harmony and social equity aims to set a powerful pathway for future generations.
This event is part of dirty nails (les ongles noirs) which is co-commissioned with
Supported by