Book launch and discussion: Manifestations of woundedness - Violence and xenophobia

The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation, War Trauma Foundation (Netherlands), The International Conflict Research Institute (INCORE) and the African Centre for Migration and Society cordially invite you to a book launch and public discussion coinciding with the hosting of an international conference titled ‘Healing communities, transforming society: Exploring the interconnectedness between psycho-social needs, practice and peace-building’.

This book offers radical new ways of thinking about precarious life in the city of Johannesburg particularly for migrants. Using case studies as varied as Pentecostal and Zionist churches, brothels, shelters, political movements for change in Zimbabwe, ex-soldiers groups, counseling services and art projects, this volume grapples with the way its predominantly migrant residents navigate the opportunities, challenges, moral orders and relationships in this iconic and complex city.

Given the recent xenophobic violence in South Africa, the volume has a deep resonance, as it traces through in-depth case studies how migrant residents seek support, to cope and to heal, going beyond what mental health professionals traditionally consider support mechanisms or interventions for those in distress. The book will be launched as part of a public panel discussion focused on the current context for migrants in South Africa and abroad.

Where: Sunnyside Park Hotel, Parktown, Johannesburg When: 7 May 2015, 6pm

Speakers: - Professor Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela - University of the Free State, South Africa - Dr Ingrid Palmary - Director & Associate Professor African Centre for Migration and Society, University of the Witwatersrand - Professor Brandon Hamber - Director, International Conflict Research Institute (INCORE), Ulster University, Northern Ireland

For more information on how to attend the event, please contact: Friederike Bubenzer: fbubenzer@ijr.org.za. Mobile number: +27 793500127