I understand people want more information about my resignation from Psymposia on April 8, 2023. I have been profoundly hurt by the events leading up to and following my resignation. I often encourage people who have experienced harm to prioritize taking care of themselves. Coming forward takes a toll.
Over the last year+, I lost much of my capacity to work in this area due to the events that precipitated my resignation from Psymposia, as well as the unfolding aftermath. The hurt I have experienced is compounded by the fact that Psymposia and its members acted with intimate knowledge of my previous trauma, after I was pushed out of psychedelia for trying to raise issues I thought were paramount to people’s safety and wellbeing.
I tried to get the organization to engage with a formal, third-party process at the time of my exit interview and again, in a letter sent on July 5, 2024. In that letter, I detailed new information of concern, including a range of behaviors I believe to be retaliation for my resignation. Psymposia did not respond with a willingness to engage in a mediated process. In light of recent events, I am re-extending my invitation for Psymposia to engage an appropriate third-party to help bring insight and resolution to these matters.
The intention of the proposed process is not punitive, nor do I hold myself separate and apart from those whose actions should be evaluated. My goal in requesting an investigation and mediated resolution process has always been to foster opportunities for learning and professional development for all involved, and to de-escalate conflict. I hope such a process can lead to the type of resolution that would allow for the production and publication of a joint statement.
-Lily