We Choose The Bear redefines the bear as a symbol of protection and empowerment for womxn and marginalized communities. Co-authored by Cyndi Coon and Kim Larkin, this anthology weaves together stories, essays, poems, and artwork, offering a fresh perspective on personal safety, power, and the unique challenges women face today.
Drawing inspiration from real-world discussions and created during the transformative celestial events of 2024, We Choose The Bear tackles the deeply resonant question: Why do many women feel safer encountering a bear in the woods than a man?
Through personal narratives, mythological exploration, and cultural reflections, the book delves into the fears and strengths that shape women’s lives, challenging conventional ideas of vulnerability and protection.
This thought-provoking collection invites readers to reflect on where true safety and strength lie, and to find power within themselves. We Choose The Bear is a call for a safer, more equitable world—one where resilience, community, and strength lead the way.
Explore the stories. Join the conversation. Find your self-power.
Our Story
This project began as a response to the public conversation about why women would choose a wild bear in the woods over running into a man. The creative act of building this book began in Texas during the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. The blue pages in this book were created using solar printing. The cyanotype or sun print was exposed during the 4-minute duration of the eclipse. Then, the bear stories, collages, conversations, poems, songs, and films were infused during a rare aurora caused by a massive solar storm, visible as far south as Alabama on May 10, 2024.
The book came to a close during the six-planetary alignments on June 3, 2024, while at Chaco Canyon, New Mexico. These pages hold this time window between major celestial events and conversations of bears amongst us—the dangerous ones and the allies. We are two women with deep backgrounds in the arts and a passion for science, creativity, and justice, especially for womxn.
As super nerds, we love blending these interests through our collaboration at the Applied Futures Lab, where we subversively incorporate art, imagination, and humanity into researching threat futures and provoking possibilities to build hopeful futures for all.
We had a wild, good time making this book, and we hope some part of its weird interpretation of our ideas, experiences, and dreams resonates with you. Enjoy the journey!
– Cyndi and Kim
Resources
FAQ
What is “We Choose the Bear” about?
“We Choose the Bear” is a book and movement exploring women’s empowerment through the lens of choosing safety from men in the form of a metaphorical bear. It delves into themes of personal strength, survival, and the deeply rooted fear of male violence that many women experience.
Why would women choose a bear over a man?
This seemingly counterintuitive notion stems from the stark reality of violence against women. While bears are dangerous, their behavior is generally predictable. Conversely, the threat some men pose is unpredictable and often driven by malicious intent, making it a more insidious and pervasive threat.
How does societal response impact women’s safety?
The societal response to male violence often exacerbates the problem. Victims may face disbelief, victim-blaming, and invasive questioning, discouraging them from seeking help. This lack of support perpetuates a cycle of silence and reinforces the perception that male violence is acceptable.
What is the “Be the Bear” campaign?
The series of posters and actions encouraging men to embody the bear’s qualities of strength, protection, and empathy to create environments where women and marginalized individuals feel safe, respected, and valued. Through allyship, accountability, and education, the campaign promotes positive behaviors that support gender equality and personal growth.
What evidence supports the fear of male violence?
The fear reflected is grounded in the lived experiences of women and marginalized people, supported by decades of research and public conversation around harassment, assault, domestic violence, stalking, and gender-based violence.
What resources are available for those seeking help or support?
“We Choose the Bear” offers a range of resources for individuals seeking help, support, or guidance on gender equality, safety, and allyship. Explore organizations such as Global Rights for Women, RAINN, and Futures Without Violence, which provide advocacy, support, and resources for survivors and those working to create a safer world for women. Visit the Resources section of the We Choose the Bear page for an evolving list of support organizations and media.
Where can I buy the book?
The book is currently only available for print on demand from Amazon. ORDER NOW