With songs, drums, dances and rituals hundreds of people celebrated Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Randall’s Island.
An event that commemorates the resilience and cultural diversity of indigenous communities that have lived in the Americas for thousands of years.
“But we are still alive, the spirit does not die, our people are still alive. There are many indigenous people coming together more every day, working. We are here because our people have always known how to share and live together in community and live with the land, live with the waters, giving thanks and helping us,” said Kaila Bulé.
Indigenous communities from more than 50 nations gathered in tribute to their ancestors.
“Today is a day to unify all the tribes of the Americas and the world as well, to remember our power and our history,” added Rebecca Gitana Torres.
This as part of a three-day event that began on Saturday and ended this Monday.
For these indigenous cultures, this increasingly popular event was created as a replacement for Christopher Columbus Day.
“Because we do not agree with the nomenclature, with the name given to this day, not because we practically celebrate colonization and colonization for us meant many changes. There was a lot, a lot of death, a lot of blood and a lot of suffering,” said Sicanni Purizaca.
Among the rituals of this day, the tobacco ceremony stands out. This smoke is believed to have spiritual and physical cleansing properties, as well as the ability to ward off evil spirits.
This is followed by the water ceremony that takes place in the East River.
Through prayers and songs.
“If your water is not healthy, your people are not going to be healthy and we have to put a lot of priority on healing the water and healing the people and also being united,” said another participant.
During this event, dozens of street vendors bring a market where you can find works of indigenous artisans, art, jewelry and clothing.
Besides food.
Jaime Luis Gómez, artistically known as Taboo, is an American rapper, songwriter and actor of Mexican origin and from the Shoshone tribe who said he was present in honor of his roots and future generations.
“It is important to be here to inspire all these children who are here who know me for music as the Black Eyed Peas, but also as a relative who is so proud to represent, not only the indigenous people but the Mexicans and the Latinos for everyone,” Gómez said.
2023-10-09 19:48:00
#Indigenous #Peoples #Day #commemorated #city
