When I first began choreographing my latest dance piece, I knew I wanted to tackle a subject close to my heart: generational trauma. This is work that matters deeply in Oklahoma.

According to 2024 data from America’s Health Rankings, nearly two in five Oklahoma children have suffered adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, placing our state third highest in the nation. ACEs are traumatic events that happen before age 18, such as neglect, abuse or exposure to substance abuse. They can have lifelong effects on physical, mental and social health.

Amid this difficult reality, I see hope. Organizations like ReMerge Oklahoma are showing us how to break cycles of trauma, addiction and incarceration. ReMerge serves high-risk, high-needs mothers facing non-violent felony offenses. Their program

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