Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the optimizer domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/councilontheunce/public_html/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6170
In the flow of rupture | June 2026 – Council on the Uncertain Human Future
Warning: Use of undefined constant ‘optimizer_pro’ - assumed '‘optimizer_pro’' (this will throw an Error in a future version of PHP) in /home/councilontheunce/public_html/wp-content/themes/optimizer_pro-child/functions.php on line 5

In the flow of rupture | June 2026

June 22, 2026

On Monday June 15, long-time CUHF members Pat Benjamin and Melissa Hoffer explored an evolutionary perspective on this time of enormous change, as part of our ongoing Council series, In the flow of rupture.

Initially launched over two sessions in February/March 2025, In the flow of rupture offers ongoing opportunities for reflection among CUHF community members in the wake of upheaval created by the current U.S. administration. Each month, in Council, we ask:

What is happening and how do we stay present, compassionate, grounded and in community amidst the convulsions? Can we together expand our insight and perspective, while being realistic, agile, skillful and of service?

This recording is among the resources CUHF has shared to support the In the flow of rupture Councils, which continue through November 2026. See the homepage of our site for more.

 

About the speakers

Pat Benjamin

Pat Benjamin is Associate Professor Emerita of Geography in the Department of Earth, Environment and Physics at Worcester State University, where she taught human geography and environmental studies courses. Her interests include East African environmental history, environmental movements and sustainable agriculture.

Melissa Hoffer

Melissa Hoffer is an attorney specializing in environmental law. She currently serves as Massachusetts’ Climate Chief—the state’s first Cabinet-level climate position. She previously served as the principal deputy general counsel at the US Environmental Protection Agency. As chief of the Energy & Environment Bureau in the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office (AGO), Melissa was responsible for overseeing the AGO’s work to enforce environmental laws, protect ratepayer interests, and support federal regulations addressing emissions of mercury, air toxins, and greenhouse gases.