Miryam's Traditional- Giveaway Ceremony

Based on the Native American custom of a “giveaway,” Miryam’s House of Transition’s residents, alumnae and staff celebrate a late holiday event in January, called the “Potlatch.”

Christmas decorations are still up, and the event begins with a meal hosted and prepared by staff.  Each woman is asked to bring a gift with special meaning for her.  The gifts are wrapped but no name is attached.  After dinner, someone is chosen to select a package from under the tree and opens it.  The giver then tells the story of its meaning.  Then the giver opens a package.  This continues until each woman has a gift.

The special gifts are not necessarily of great monetary value, but are symbols of struggle, hope or the giver’s journey.  The struggle for the giver is in the sacrifice, letting go of a personal treasure and sharing its meaning with its new owner.

A necklace made by a woman in treatment, a totem or special carved object symbolizing a unique spirit , an inspirational book read and re-read, a painting that traveled with its owner to the DV shelter are examples of Potlatch gifts.

Upon completion of the ceremony, everyone leaves with their gift, to be cherished and strengthened by the generosity of the giver and the sacrifice they have made. 

Miryam’s House has celebrated this tradition for many years.  Residents and alums tell staff, “Potlatch is the best part of Christmas!”