If you were able to stop by Albemarle Park on the first-ever Indigenous Peoples’ Day Ceremonial Celebration in Newton, as promised, there was a bustling market of vendors selling handmade jewelry, artwork, clothing, books on Indigenous Culture, foods and more. People ate just-prepared fry bread, empanadas and drank strawberry flavored beverages and a purple Peruvian corn drink called Chicha Morada – to name a few of many things! Local community organizations shared insights and information. There was dance, music, storytelling, history, poetry and sharing language. The moon rose over the event as presenters and guests gathered in a final circle at the event closing. A beautiful day led by and featuring the voices, culture, family, traditions and culture of many Indigenous Peoples in the Newton community and beyond! Congratulations to the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Newton Committee with special appreciation to Founder & Chair and featured presenter, Lincoln-Eliot parent Chali’Inaru Dones!
FEATURED FIGURE IN HISTORY
Former Cherokee leader Wilma Mankiller (1945-2010) will appear on the U.S. quarter in 2022 along with Maya Angelou and Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space. Wilma Mankiller is honored and recognized as the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. The surname “Mankiller,” refers to a traditional Cherokee military rank, like a captain or major. She revitalized the Nation’s tribal government, and advocated relentlessly for improved education, healthcare, and housing services. Under her leadership, infant mortality declined, and educational achievement rose in the Cherokee Nation. She said, “The secret to our success is that we never, never, never give up.” Words to live by for all of the changemakers in our midst!
HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH, September 15 – October 15, 2021
As Hispanic Heritage month comes to a close, check out this compilation of books to read with kids demonstrating a wide array of Latinx experiences and stories: https://www.today.com/shop/
FAMILIES ORGANIZING FOR RACIAL JUSTICE (FORJ)
FORJ is a group of diverse Newton families helping our children learn about issues of power and inequality and how to stand up for racial justice. We seek to generate understanding and curiosity about differences in our society, and to work together towards racial equity.For more info or to join, contact Lanni Isenberg, L-E FORJ PTO Liaison, lanni_harris@yahoo.com