Uh-Oh

I was terribly disheartened to hear of this. The short version? There was theft and vandalism, including the release of animals, at Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival this year. In a world full of terrible natural disasters and war, I've found these festivals to be almost an oasis of kindness. I attended a dozen or so events last year to do research for my new book, Fiber Gathering, and attended many others in past years. I'm teaching at a festival in just a couple of weeks. People I've met were overwhelmingly generous and friendly. The animals slept safe in their temporary barns. The vendors occasionally had losses--due to wind or rain...but not theft. This is something we, in the fiber arts community, would not expect to hear.

So, ok, why am I posting about this? The sheep or goat has left the barn, so to speak...and maybe this was just an isolated event? I hope so, but, well, here's the thing. There are dozens more festivals this year. There are literally millions of us who might attend one. We don't want even one vendor or farmer or participant to stay home because of these incidents of vandalism or theft..we want all our fiber festival friends to feel safe! I'm asking everyone to keep your eyes open. Take care, and take care of those around you. Pretend every festival is your village, and be outspoken and loving in your protection of what we care about. People, farm animals, children, precious yarn and fiber supplies? We want everyone to feel safe, welcome and appreciated at their local festival. A watchful crowd really matters in terms of everyone's well-being. Spread the word.

Please link to this blog post. Promote safety for our animals, vendors, and friends at festivals. Thank you.