A New Way is Layered with Meaning
The Name
Families and individuals struggling with habits and ineffective ways of coping with major life challenges seek a new way. As a collaborative partner with other agencies, we support individuals and families “driving” what they need and work with them in creating in our community a new way that embraces wholly the principles of a System of Care. The foundation of the name, though, is derived from a plea by the Principal Chief of the Cheyenne, Morning Star (also known by his Lakota name, Dull Knife), who called upon his people during the times of the Indian Wars to “make A New Way.” This plea sought reconciliation, restoration of hope for the future, and appreciation of one’s own strengths, culture, and resources with which to make a new way. It also recognized the importance of creating a lasting relationship with others, regardless of the battles being fought between them. Richard DeSirey, the founder of A New Way, has written a book, drawn from the oral accounts of Morning Star’s decendant’s.
The Location: Why Greenwood?
The building housing A New Way was rebuilt in 1923. It was one of the earlier efforts to restore The Black Wall Street, known generally as Greenwood, which was burned to the ground during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. This horrific incident is considered the worst race massacre in the history of our country. In our once deeply segregated community, Greenwood now symbolizes the importance of reconciliation; the importance of making A New Way. The site was carefully chosen as the home for our agency with the purpose of restoring hope to families and organizations serving youth.