ZUNI PEOPLES - Koyemshi Cultural Ceremony Support

CULTURAL & SPIRITUAL PRESERVATION PROJECT

In Early February of 2014, the Inti Raymi Fund visited the Zuni Community in New Mexico and supported them with a $25,000 grant for self-directed cultural and spirtual projects. After their careful consideration, the community elected to use their funds for the continued financial support of their traditional religious & spiritual ceremonies called the “Koyemshi Ceremonies” along with other traditions within the Community. We were given the rare opportunity to witness this extraordinary private ceremony as “special outside guests” as we were invited to visit the reservation during one of their sacred Koyemshi Ceremonies. Due to the sacred nature of the ceremony, we were unable to photograph or video any of the performances. What I can tell you is that it was a beautiful display and performance of ancient folk story telling and dance traditions using life size Kachina Doll uniforms, all performed by the elders of the community. Total silence and respect is observed during the entire four hour performance.   

This financial support for their Indigenous People’s Self-Determination project was very effective and important to them. The Zuni Community continues to teach and carry on these very important religious, spiritual ceremonies & folk dances for their original First Nations Peoples who are slowly fading from  the North American landscape.

WHY DOES THE INTI RAYMI FUND WANT TO HELP?

It is estimated that over 40% of Zuni Peoples live below the poverty line in America. There has been a long history of displacement for all native peoples throughout the United States which has had socio and economic consequences that still reverberate today. We strive to treat all cultures with Dignity and Respect and although we envision helping people all over the world, we have to look in our own back yard as well.

WHO ARE THE ZUNI?

The Zuni are a federally recognized Native American tribe, one of the Pueblo Peoples. Most live in the Pueblo of Zuni on the Zuni River, a tributary of the Little Colorado River, in western New Mexico, United States. The Zuni were and are a traditional people who live by irrigated agriculture and raising livestock. Their success as a desert agri-economy is due to careful management and conservation of resources, as well as a complex system of community support. Many contemporary Zuni also rely on the sale of traditional arts and crafts, with a specialization in silver jewelry. Their location is relatively isolated, but they welcome respectful tourists.

All images by Inti Raymi Fund except last eight images on page below.