​On Veterans Day, my heart is filled with gratitude as we honor the men and women who have selflessly served our nation. 

As an immigrant who escaped conflict and the daughter of a military man, my perspective on this day is deeply personal, having grown up amidst the challenges of living through a sixteen year civil war.

In times of conflict, individuals are drawn to the military, sacrificing themselves for a cause greater than their own. It is a commitment that extends beyond the individual, weaving a tapestry of service and dedication to something bigger.

My personal commitment to veterans extends beyond mere acknowledgment. Within the Syzygy Dance Project veterans programs, I tailor movement classes to meet the unique needs of those who have served, particularly at VA hospitals. These classes serve as a crucial bridge, aiding veterans in overcoming the challenges they face during their transition back to civilian life.

My work is especially poignant with veterans grappling with mental illness. Through the transformative power of movement, I guide them out of the confines of their minds and into the embrace of their bodies, helping them discover joy and reclaim a sense of peace of mind. Remarkably, even my blind veteran participants find solace and connection in my classes, experiencing joy for the first time in years through the universal language of movement.

Collaborating with veterans in their journey towards healing has been an extraordinary privilege. Witnessing the transformative impact of dance on their lives reaffirms the profound potential of movement as a healing modality.

With Syzygy Dance Project, my mission is rooted in the belief that dance is not merely an art form but a powerful means of healing and connection. My dedication to bringing dance as a therapeutic modality is a testament to my commitment to fostering deeper connections, both with oneself and with each other.

On this Veterans Day, let us not only express our gratitude but also acknowledge the transformative power of connection and support in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our collective well-being. Together, we can towards healing, honoring the resilience and strength of our veterans.

With love,
Sylvie and the SDP Team