​The New Cohanzick Village Tales Coloring Book Series 2 https://amzn.to/3Qoy8VE  is a delightful collection of coloring and activity pages designed to transport you to the enchanting world of Cohanzick Village Tales. This series builds upon the first edition's success, offering even more intricate illustrations and engaging narratives inspired by the rich history and folklore of Cohanzick Village. Each page in this series is meticulously crafted to provide hours of creative and therapeutic coloring enjoyment. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a coloring aficionado, or simply seeking a relaxing pastime, the New Cohanzick Village Tales Coloring Book Series 2 promises a captivating and immersive experience for all ages. 

Explore the beauty and charm of this book that highlights art from the latest seven published books by Tyrese" Bright Flower" Gould Jacinto through vivid illustrations that capture its unique essence, allowing you to add your personal touch to this enchanting world.
You can follow my Author Page here: https://www.facebook.com/TyreseGouldJacinto Subscribe for more! Here is my website: www.tygouldjacinto.com
​

$10.00 from Amazon

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# Children's books, # kids' books, #Family, #Culture, #Native American, #Nanticoke, #Lenape, #New Jersey Natives, #Ancestors, #Hidden People

A poem by Tyrese "Bright Flower" Gould Jacinto; art by Arnild C. Aldepolla

​A poem warning that we are in jeopardy because of our many years of dishonoring Mother Earth and the despair of trees and plants. The trees consume what we create, and we breathe what the trees exhale. This book is woven with verses that resonate with the wisdom of ancient trees through the whispers of nature's soul by the words of a beautiful, tiny, illuminated insect.

$15.00 From Amazon

It is essential to teach children. As a citizen of the Nanticoke Lenape Nation, my focus is stories to bring our culture into written words. New, "Little Talks with Grandmother" https://amzn.to/3rtqSij

It's easy to forget our profound connections with the natural world in the hustle and bustle of our modern lives. We get caught up in the demands of technology, progress, and the constant pursuit of material wealth, often losing sight of the intricate tapestry of life that sustains us. But there are those among us who have managed to hold onto this awareness, who have cultivated a deep love and reverence for the Earth and its magnificent inhabitants.

This book, "Little Talks with Grandmother," is a testament to one such individual and the wisdom she has imparted to me. It is a collection of heartfelt conversations, cherished memories, and invaluable lessons that have shaped my understanding of the world and our place within it.

At the heart of this dialogue lies a profound appreciation for trees—the guardians of our planet, the silent witnesses to countless generations, and the providers of life-giving sustenance. I have come to recognize that trees embody a profound beauty and resilience that often goes unnoticed amidst the chaos of our daily lives. They are the pillars of our ecosystems, the purifiers of our air, and the storytellers of our past. They are the bridges between the human and natural realms, offering solace, guidance, and profound insights for those willing to listen.

Yet, as I embarked on this journey of discovery, I couldn't help but confront the inconvenient truth that we, as humans, have become a threat to these majestic beings. Our insatiable desire for progress and exploitation has resulted in widespread deforestation, the loss of biodiversity, and the disruption of fragile ecosystems. The consequences of our actions are far-reaching, affecting the trees and the delicate balance of our planet's interconnected web of life.

But within this book lies a glimmer of hope as I delved deeper into the ancient wisdom of Indigenous cultures. Their profound understanding of the natural world, harmonious relationship with the Earth, and timeless traditions hold the key to awareness and change. They have taught me that by embracing Indigenous wisdom and honoring the inherent rights of all living beings, we can restore the balance that has been so gravely disturbed.
Through the words and teachings of my beloved Grandmother, I invite you to embark on a transformative journey—a journey that will deepen your connection to nature, broaden your understanding of Indigenous cultures, and inspire you to become an agent of change. In these "Little Talks," you will find a source of solace, a call to action, and a testament to the enduring power of love and reverence for the natural world.

May this book serve as a reminder that we are not alone in this intricate dance of existence and that by embracing the wisdom of our ancestors and nurturing a profound connection with the Earth, we can forge a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. You can follow my Author Page here: https://www.facebook.com/TyreseGouldJacinto Subscribe for more! Here is my website: www.tygouldjacinto.com
 
Tyrese Gould Jacinto
 
Want More?  Check out these other great sites!
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https://www.nativeadvancement.com/
https://www.theindigenousway.com/
https://www.mynewhomenj.com/
https://www.turkeytale.com/
https://www.nativeadvancement.org/index.html
https://www.talentsandlights.com/
https://www.saveenergynj.com/
https://www.njbiznet.com/
https://tyresegouldjacinto.blogspot.com/
 
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# Children's books, # kids' books, #Family, #Culture, #Native American, #Nanticoke, #Lenape, #New Jersey Natives, #Ancestors, #Hidden People

​Many individuals yearn for a sense of belonging and connection to their ancestral roots in an increasingly fast-paced and disconnected world. For me, as an artist, the process of working with homegrown gourds is not only a creative endeavor but also a powerful symbol of the cyclical nature of life, connecting the past, present, and future. By nurturing my gourds that originated from the seeds of my Cohanzick Indigenous ancestors, they forge a profound bond with my heritage and the land that sustained my people for thousands of years. This artistic journey serves as a tangible representation of the intricate interplay between the dust of my ancestors, the seeds of our life, and the flowing waters that unite us all.

​As I walk upon the dust of my ancestors, the journey of working art from my homegrown gourds begins with acknowledging the sacred dust of our ancestors, which lies dormant in the soil. For me, as an artist, the land where my Cohanzick Indigenous ancestors once thrived becomes a living testament to my heritage. The act of planting gourd seeds in this ancestral soil is a symbolic connection to the past, invoking a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility towards my lineage. As the seeds take root and grow, they draw nourishment from the very essence of my ancestors, transforming the dusty soil into a medium for creativity and remembrance.
 
As I plant the seed of life, as the gourd seeds sprout and flourish, they embody the life force that connects my generations. These seeds passed down through time carry with them my ancestors' stories, wisdom, and resilience. Each gourd is a vessel for the collective memory of my people, and as I tend to my growth, I am reminded of the profound intergenerational bond that transcends time and space. I nurture the seed, just as my ancestors nurtured the land, preserving my cultural heritage and embracing the potential for new growth and expression.

​The flowing water, the lifeblood of my existence, is essential to my journey as an artist. Just as water courses through rivers and nourishes the land, it also flows within my body, connecting me to the past, present, and future. By infusing my creative process with this vital element, I acknowledge the inseparable connection between myself and my ancestors. Water serves as a conduit for my artistic energy, enabling me to breathe life into my gourds and channel the creative spirit of my Cohanzick Indigenous heritage.

The past, present, and future of my artistic experiences are the full circle of life in working art from my homegrown gourds. I witness the ancient wisdom of my ancestors, symbolized by the dust in the soil. I embrace the vitality of the present, represented by the seeds of life that sprout and grow. Finally, I envisage a future where my artistic expression becomes a legacy for generations to come, inspiring others to reconnect with our ancestral roots and honor the land that sustains us all.

​The act of working art from homegrown gourds holds profound meaning for me as an artist who seeks to establish a deep connection with my Cohanzick Indigenous heritage. By tending to the seeds, harnessing the nourishment of the soil, and infusing my artistic process with the flowing waters, they create a poignant symbol of the cyclical nature of life. This beautiful journey, as an artist, I honor my ancestors and become a conduit for my cultural heritage to thrive in the present and shape the future. Through my art, I inspire others to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, weaving a tapestry that binds humanity together across time and space.

​Embark on an extraordinary journey through the captivating pages of "The Blossoms of Three Sisters." Immerse yourself in a world where ancient traditions, ancestral wisdom, and the beauty of nature converge in a tapestry of breathtaking storytelling.
 
Step into the enchanting realm of the Cohanzick Indigenous people, where their vibrant cultural heritage springs to life. Discover the hidden secrets of the Three Sisters—corn, beans, and squash—as their mystical connection weaves a tale of harmony, sustenance, and spiritual significance.
 
This story masterfully crafts a narrative that transports readers into the heart of Cohanzick traditions. Through evocative prose, you'll witness sacred ceremonies, experience the profound bond between community members, and delve into the depths of the natural world that holds the key to their ancestral wisdom.

​"The Blossoms of Three Sisters" is more than a book; it's an invitation to honor and preserve the cultural legacy of the Cohanzick people. It resonates with a powerful message, urging readers to become guardians of their heritage, ensuring that the flame of their ancestors' stories never wanes.
 
This mesmerizing tale celebrates unity and connection, reminding us of our shared history’s profound wisdom. As you turn each page, you'll be captivated by the rich tapestry of emotions, knowledge, and traditions that make up the vibrant world of the Cohanzick Indigenous people.
 
Immerse yourself in a world where past and present coexist, where the spirits of ancestors guide the way forward. Experience the magic of "The Blossoms of Three Sisters" and discover why this remarkable book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the depths of humanity's cultural heritage.
 
Don't miss out on this extraordinary literary journey. Get your copy of "The Blossoms of Three Sisters" today and embark on an adventure that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

​May 4th is called Bird Day, a special day dedicated to appreciating and protecting these feathered creatures. The origins of Bird Day date back to 1894 when Charles Almanzo Babcock, a superintendent of schools in Oil City, Pennsylvania, proposed the idea of a day to celebrate birds and educate children about their importance. Since then, Bird Day has become a worldwide celebration of birds and their significance to our ecosystem.
Birds hold deep cultural and spiritual significance for our Indigenous community, and their songs, calls, and flight patterns carry important messages from the spirit world. In our Indigenous traditions, birds are considered messengers or mediators between humans and the divine.
Birds are often featured in our Indigenous art, music, and dance. Observing and protecting birds is also an essential part of our Indigenous culture. We, Indigenous people, have long understood the importance of birds and have developed deep cultural and spiritual connections to these creatures. By learning from our Indigenous traditions and working together to protect bird habitats and populations, we can ensure that these magnificent creatures continue to inspire and delight us for generations to come.
Our Indigenous community plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. Unfortunately, birds increasingly face threats from water, air, and land pollution caused by human activities. This pollution destroys habitats and directly affects bird populations, making them sick or unable to reproduce.
The Purple Martin is one bird species currently facing the threat of extinction due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. This bird species is a valuable ecosystem member, crucial in controlling mosquito populations. The importance of the Purple Martin to Indigenous communities, such as the Cohanzick people, cannot be overstated, as it has been a traditional method of mosquito control for generations.
The Cohanzick people have long recognized the importance of Purple Martins in controlling the mosquito population. We have even developed specific strategies to encourage the nesting of Purple Martins in our communities. We build birdhouses called "Martin houses" that provide shelter and nesting sites for these birds. We Cohanzick people also create smoke fires to keep mosquitoes at bay and provide a food source for the Purple Martins, further encouraging their presence.
The decline in the population of Purple Martins is a cause for concern among our Indigenous communities, as it affects our traditional mosquito control methods and threatens the ecosystem's overall health. The Purple Martin is critical in controlling mosquito populations, which can carry diseases such as West Nile Virus and other illnesses.
We Indigenous communities have recognized the importance of these birds for generations and have developed traditional methods to encourage their presence. As the Purple Martin faces the threat of extinction, we must take action to protect their habitats and ensure their survival. This will help preserve our traditional Indigenous practices and promote a healthier environment for all living beings.

My published book "He Talks to Birds" was written to bring awareness to the importance of the history of the Purple Martins and their significance to our Indigenous communities. By shedding light on the traditional mosquito control methods and the crucial role that Purple Martins play in maintaining ecological balance, this book helps promote greater appreciation for these valuable birds.
Through this book, readers can better understand the cultural significance of Purple Martins to Indigenous communities, such as the Cohanzick people, and how we have relied on these birds for generations. This book also highlights the dangers that the Purple Martin is currently facing and how we can take action to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.
By supporting this book, readers can contribute to preserving our traditional Indigenous practices and promoting the conservation of the Purple Martin species. This book serves as a valuable tool in raising awareness about the importance of protecting our natural environment and the critical role that every living being plays in maintaining ecological balance. "He Talks to Birds" brings about positive change by promoting awareness of the importance of the Purple Martin to Indigenous communities and this bird's critical role in maintaining ecological balance. https://amzn.to/42r4sve
The Northeast region of North America has been the traditional home of many bird species that have played a crucial role in the culture and traditions of Indigenous communities. The original birds of the Northeast were diverse species, including the Turkey, Grouse, Eagle, Owl, and Hawk.

The Turkey is one of the most well-known bird species in the Northeast and has been an essential part of Indigenous culture for centuries. The turkey played a significant role in many Indigenous ceremonies, storytelling, and is a staple food source for many communities.
"The Tale of the Turkey's Detailed Tail" is an important contribution to the awareness of Indigenous Cohanzick contributions to the correct history of the Northeast region of North America. The book focuses on the significance of the turkey in Indigenous culture and traditions, as well as the importance of the bird to the natural ecosystem of the region.
The turkey is a bird that has been revered by Indigenous communities for centuries. It has played a significant role in their culture and traditions, from its use in ceremonies and rituals to its importance as a source of food and clothing. The turkey has also been an important part of the natural ecosystem of the Northeast, where it has helped to maintain the balance of the environment by controlling insect populations.
Through "The Tale of the Turkey's Detailed Tail," readers are introduced to the Cohanzick Indigenous people and their unique history and traditions. The book offers an important perspective on the history of the Northeast that is often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
By bringing attention to the importance of the turkey in Indigenous culture and the natural ecosystem, "The Tale of the Turkey's Detailed Tail" highlights the need for greater awareness and appreciation of Indigenous contributions to the region. It offers readers an opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of the Cohanzick Indigenous people, and to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving the natural environment and its inhabitants. https://amzn.to/3NEcWv2
The Grouse is another bird species that has been an important part of Indigenous culture in the Northeast. The bird's feathers were often used in traditional clothing and headdresses, and its meat was a valuable source of protein.
The Eagle, Owl, and Hawk are birds of prey that have always held a special place in Indigenous culture. These majestic birds are revered for their strength and hunting prowess and are used as symbols in Indigenous art and storytelling.
Today, these bird species and many others in the Northeast face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. This is a cause for concern for Indigenous communities who have relied on these birds for generations for both cultural and practical reasons.
It is essential to recognize the value of these bird species and take action to protect their habitats and ensure their survival. The knowledge and wisdom of Indigenous communities can provide valuable insights into achieving this goal while promoting a healthier environment for all living beings.
Several bird species were present in the Northeast region of North America before the European incursion. Some of these birds include:

• Passenger Pigeon
• Carolina Parakeet
• Ivory-billed Woodpecker
• Heath Hen
• Labrador Duck
• Eskimo Curlew
• Great Auk
• Bachman's Warbler
• Kirtland's Warbler
• Prairie Chicken

These bird species were an essential part of the natural ecosystem of the Northeast and played a significant role in the culture and traditions of Indigenous communities. Unfortunately, many of these bird species have been extirpated or driven to extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and other factors related to human activity.
The loss of these bird species has had a profound impact on both the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the Northeast. Efforts are underway to restore and protect the habitats of remaining bird species in the region, including those listed as threatened or endangered. These efforts involve collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and Indigenous communities to promote ecological balance, preserve traditional knowledge, and honor the legacy of the original birds of the Northeast.
Several bird species are currently listed as endangered or threatened in the Northeast region of North America. Some of these bird species include:

• Piping Plover
• Red Knot
• Roseate Tern
• Saltmarsh Sparrow
• Golden-winged Warbler
• Cerulean Warbler
• Kirtland's Warbler
• Canada Warbler
• Bicknell's Thrush
• Spruce Grouse
• Sharp-tailed Grouse
• Short-eared Owl
• Northern Goshawk
• Bald Eagle
• Peregrine Falcon
• Purple Martin

These bird species face threats from habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and other factors related to human activity. Efforts are underway to protect and restore the habitats of these birds, promote their conservation, and ensure their survival. These efforts involve collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and Indigenous communities to promote ecological balance, preserve traditional knowledge, and honor the legacy of the original birds of the Northeast.
Here is a summary of issues you can be aware of to help reverse the problems of bird depopulation.
Water pollution, for example, can devastate bird populations that rely on wetlands and freshwater ecosystems for food and shelter. Pesticides and fertilizers used in agricultural practices contaminate water sources, leading to toxic algal blooms that harm bird populations. Similarly, oil spills and other forms of industrial pollution destroy important bird habitats and cause long-term harm to bird populations.
Air pollution is another major threat to birds, especially in urban areas where high pollution levels can cause respiratory problems, impaired vision, and weakened immune systems. Several bird species rely on their keen sense of smell to navigate and find food, but air pollution interferes with these sensory abilities, making it difficult for birds to survive.
Land pollution also poses a significant threat to birds, destroying habitats and poisoning food sources. Plastic pollution, for example, is deadly for birds that mistake it for food or become entangled in it. Habitat destruction caused by deforestation, farming, and other forms of land use change also devastates bird populations.
Birds are not just passive victims of pollution and environmental degradation; they also warn our Indigenous people of the dangers we face from our actions. As the natural world is interconnected, the health of bird populations is a critical indicator of the overall health of our planet. By listening to the warnings of the birds, we can learn to live more sustainably and responsibly and work towards a healthier future for all living beings. Our Indigenous communities must work together to protect these critical creatures. By reducing pollution and protecting natural habitats, we can ensure that birds continue to play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining our planet for generations.
​Happy Bird Day!

National Brother and Sisters Day is celebrated every year on May 2nd to honor the bond between siblings and the importance of family. While the concept of siblings may be limited to those who share the same biological parents, our Indigenous communities view the concept of brotherhood and sisterhood in a much broader sense.
 
For our Indigenous people, the idea of family extends beyond blood relationships and includes the extended family concept. This means that people who are not necessarily related by blood can still be considered family based on their connection to the community and their spiritual bond. This explains why we have so many “Aunts and Uncles”!
 
In our Indigenous culture, we believe that all living things, including trees, rocks, water, air, and animals, are connected and related by the Creator. This interconnectedness means that we are all responsible for caring for and protecting each other, just as we would our biological siblings.
 
The extended family concept is often reflected in Indigenous languages, which often have different terms for different types of relationships. For example, in the Algonquin language, there are specific terms for different kinds of siblings, including older brother, younger brother, older sister, and younger sister. This reflects the importance of these relationships and each sibling's unique role within the family and the community.
 
The bond between siblings in Indigenous communities is often strengthened through ceremony and tradition. In our Indigenous communities, there is a ceremony where two people who are not related by blood become siblings by exchanging gifts and especially sharing food.
 
In our Indigenous culture, it is common to refer to elders and respected community members as aunt, uncle, or cousin, even if they are not blood-related. This practice reflects the importance of extended family and community in Indigenous cultures. It serves as a way of showing respect, oneness, and endearment towards those who have earned our admiration and trust.
 
The practice of calling elders aunt or uncle is often seen as a sign of respect and honor. It is a way of acknowledging the wisdom and experience that comes with age and recognizing elders' vital role in our communities. Using these familial terms to address elders, we express our gratitude and appreciation for their guidance, support, and leadership.
 
In addition to showing respect, using these familial terms is also a way of fostering a sense of oneness and community. By referring to someone as an aunt, uncle, or cousin, we acknowledge the interconnectedness between all members of our community. We reinforce the idea that we are all related and are responsible for caring for and supporting each other, just as we would our biological family members.
In my published book, "The Creator's Great Soup," there is a wonderful example of Indigenous storytelling that emphasizes the importance of our interconnectedness and our responsibility to care for each other and the world around us.
 
The book tells the story of how the Creator made a great soup with all the different ingredients of the world, including people, animals, trees, and rocks. The ingredients were all mixed together, creating a delicious and nourishing soup that sustained life on Earth. But the Creator warned that if any ingredient were ever taken out of the soup, the balance of the world would be upset.
 
This story highlights the importance of our interconnectedness and the fact that we are all related to each other and the world around us. It emphasizes the idea that every person, animal, tree, and rock is essential to the balance of the world and that we must all work together to care for each other and the earth.
 
"The Creator's Great Soup" is a powerful reminder of our responsibilities as stewards of the earth and the importance of treating each other with respect, kindness, and compassion. It is a beautiful example of Indigenous storytelling and a valuable resource for teaching young people about the importance of our relationships with each other and the natural world.
 
It is an honor to share this important work with the world and to use storytelling to remind us of our responsibilities to each other and the earth. Here is the book: https://amzn.to/3ANmj3Q
 
Finally, using Brother and Sister terms expresses endearment towards those who are important to us. By calling someone brother, sister, aunt, or uncle, we express our affection and love for them, even if we are not blood-related. This helps to create a sense of warmth and closeness in our communities, which is essential for building strong and resilient relationships.
 
As we celebrate National Brother and Sisters Day, let us remember the importance of family and how Indigenous communities have expanded the concept of family to include all living things. Let us also recognize the spiritual bond that we share with each other and the responsibility that we must care for and protect our siblings, both biological and non-biological.
 
https://www.tygouldjacinto.com

​In our Indigenous cultures, females are revered and honored as the givers of life, the nurturers of families and communities, and the carriers of knowledge and traditions. This honor is deeply symbolic of our Indigenous people's reverence for Mother Earth, who also embodies the power of creation, healing, and regeneration. We, Indigenous people, see the female body, soul, and spirit as interconnected and sacred and believe that the well-being of women is essential to the well-being of the entire community.
However, the ongoing epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, attempts to break this cycle of power and reverence by perpetrating violence and trauma upon Indigenous women and our communities. The loss of our women is a tragedy for our families and our entire Indigenous community, who feel the loss of our knowledge, wisdom, and contributions.
Despite the attempts to annihilate and destroy Indigenous peoples, we have remained resilient and strong. Indigenous people believe that the Creator will protect us and bring justice for the tears shed by the families of the lost women. We Indigenous communities have come together to raise awareness, demand justice, and honor the memories of our missing and murdered women.
Through ceremonies, art, and activism, we Indigenous people reclaim our power and stand up against the forces that seek to silence us. By cherishing and honoring our women, we Indigenous people are renewing our commitment to Mother Earth and the interconnectedness of all life. We are reaffirming our place in the world as stewards of the land and protectors of our people.
We must bring higher energy to finally stop the injustice of Missing and Murdered Indigenous women; we must raise awareness during the week of May 1st -7th, the National Week of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. By spreading the word through social media, community events, and conversations with friends and family, we can increase visibility and draw attention to this vital issue.
We can also support Indigenous-led organizations and initiatives that are working to address the root causes of this epidemic and provide resources and support for the families of missing and murdered women. By amplifying Indigenous people's and communities' voices, we can build momentum toward real change and hold those who perpetrate violence and trauma upon Indigenous women accountable.
As we bring light to the darkness of those who wrong women, we can create a world where all women are honored, cherished, and protected. Let us unite in solidarity and support Indigenous people as we resist, heal, and reclaim our power. Together, we can create a future where the spirits of the missing and murdered women can rise up in spirit with us, and our families can find the justice we deserve.
Changing the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous women requires us to raise our power as one. By coming together in solidarity and recognizing the interconnectedness of all life, we can create a force for positive change. It is essential to listen to and amplify the voices of we Indigenous people impacted by this issue and let us lead the way towards justice.
We must share the stories of the missing and murdered Indigenous women to keep the conversation going and increase awareness about the scale of this problem. Through storytelling and education, we can create empathy and understanding for the pain and suffering experienced by our Indigenous communities.
We must also hold those accountable who perpetrate violence and trauma upon Indigenous women. This includes advocating for better laws, policies, and resources to prevent violence against women and demanding accountability for those who have already caused harm.
It is essential to keep the conversation going until justice is made for the missing and murdered Indigenous women. We must stay engaged, remain vigilant, and continue to advocate for change until this issue is fully addressed. Together, we can create a future where all women are honored, cherished, and protected, and the spirits of the missing and murdered women can rise up in solidarity.
Here is a site to support: https://www.niwrc.org/

Happy Dancing! International Dance Day is celebrated annually on April 29th to promote the art of dance and to raise awareness about its cultural and social significance. Dance has been an essential part of human culture for centuries and has been used as a form of expression, communication, and celebration in various communities worldwide. We Indigenous are among those who have a deep connection to dance, as it is an integral part of our culture, life, and imagination.
For we Indigenous, dance is more than just a form of entertainment. It is a way to connect with the spiritual world and to express gratitude for the gifts of nature. Indigenous dances are often performed during important ceremonies and rituals, such as the powwow, which is a gathering of Indigenous people to celebrate our heritage and culture. The powwow is a time to honor our ancestors, celebrate life, and connect with the community.
A favorite is a dance in the old style, with a doeskin dress and moccasins, because it has a powerful impact on my health and well-being. This is because traditional clothing and footwear are made from natural materials, such as animal hide and fur, which allows my body to absorb the earth's electrons. This process, known as "grounding" or "earthing," has long roots in Indigenous traditions, has been studied scientifically, and has numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving sleep, and boosting the immune system.
Dancing in traditional styles allows a connection with the land and the ancestors, reflecting the cultural heritage of my Indigenous Cohanzick people. Dancing this way enables tapping into the wisdom and energy of my ancestors and honoring my traditions and way of life.
In addition to the physical and cultural benefits, dancing in the old style is a profoundly spiritual experience. The rhythmic movements of my body, combined with the drum's beat and the singers' chanting, create a trance-like state that allows me to connect with the spiritual world and receive guidance and healing.
Dancing in the old style with traditional clothing and footwear is a powerful way to promote optimal health and well-being, both physically and spiritually. It is a way to honor the past, connect with the land and the ancestors, and celebrate the richness and diversity of my culture.
One of the important dances in Indigenous culture is the Eagle Dance. This dance is performed to honor the eagle, which is considered a sacred bird in many Indigenous traditions. The Eagle Dance is performed by men and women, who dance in a circle around  the drum. The dance movements represent the soaring flight of the eagle and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Another important dance in Indigenous culture is the Hoop Dance. This dance is performed by a single dancer who uses multiple hoops to create intricate and symbolic shapes. The Hoop Dance represents the interconnectedness of all things in nature and the importance of balance and harmony.
Dance is not just a performance art for Indigenous, but also a way of life. It is used to teach important values and traditions to younger generations, as well as to heal physical and emotional ailments. The healing power of dance is particularly important in Indigenous communities, where historical trauma and ongoing social and economic disparities have led to high rates of mental and physical health issues.
In Indigenous imagination, dance is also closely connected to storytelling and mythology. Many Indigenous stories feature dancing as a central theme, such as the story of the Sun Dance, which is a ceremony that honors the sun and involves fasting, prayer, and dancing. The Sun Dance is a way to connect with the spiritual world and to seek guidance and healing from the ancestors.
In conclusion, dance is vital to Indigenous culture, life, and imagination. It is a way to honor the past, celebrate the present, and connect with the spiritual world. On International Dance Day, let us recognize the importance of dance in all cultures and celebrate the diversity of human expression. Here is a link to some of our Pow Wow videos: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg0Nn3Z-HylFLhffZPSSwwrNeXIy1CCxQ

​Happy Arbor Day! Did you know that Arbor Day, the annual celebration of trees, is a time to reflect on the importance of these magnificent plants and their vital role in our lives. As we mark this occasion, let us take a moment to appreciate the beauty and majesty of trees, as well as the many benefits they provide us.
For starters, trees are the ultimate air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, which is essential for our survival. They also provide shade on hot summer days, reducing the need for air conditioning, and protecting our homes from strong winds and storms. Trees also play a critical role in preventing soil erosion and promoting biodiversity, providing food and shelter for a wide range of wildlife.
But trees are not just important for their environmental benefits; they also have a significant impact on our quality of life. Studies have shown that living in neighborhoods with ample trees and greenery can reduce stress and improve mental health. Trees also enhance property values and create a sense of community pride.
As we celebrate Arbor Day, let us commit to planting more trees, protecting existing forests, and nurturing the green spaces that make our communities healthier, more beautiful, and more sustainable. Let us also acknowledge the vital role that trees play in our daily lives and the critical importance of preserving our natural resources for future generations.
So let us raise our shovels and our watering cans in honor of Arbor Day, and let us continue to cherish and protect the magnificent trees that make our world a better place. Happy Arbor Day to all!
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