Ceremonial prayer conducted after Peace and Dignity March invites Council for continued support and endorsement.
Shirley Murphy, Chair Council of American Indian Organizations
Dear Ms. Murphy,
Peace & Dignity Journeys is an intercontinental Native American run dedicated to bringing unity and healing to all people of all nations. The 2012 Journey began in Alakka on May 1st and will end in Guatemala, joining the runners from the south who left from Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. In this manner, prayers of those communities join their prayers and energies within the run.
Through Peace & Dignity Journeys, numerous and diverse indigenous nations from throughout this continent reunite and reclaim dignity for themselves through these traditions.
The Journey brings sacred staffs from various Native American nations to as many communities as possible. Communities, be they on reservations or in cities, have many opportunities to participate in the run. The hosting community will be responsible for arranging meals, housing and funding during the time the runners pass through.
The participation of the hosting community is also intergrated into the run. For 2012 the focus of the Journey is a prayer for the Water.
From August 29 – September 5, 2012 the Peace and Dignity Journey will be in San Diego County. The Chicano community of San Diego has made a commitment to host the runners who will be coming from different parts of North America. We are also inviting community members to come out and welcome the runners and sacred staffs.
In 2008 the Council of American Indian Organizations endorsed the run and various members of the Council supported the Journey. We are asking again for the Council’s support and endorsement for this year’s Journey.
Dates and Routes for 2012:
- Aug 28 Anaheim to Temecula
- Aug 29 Temecula to Santa Ysabel
- Aug 30 Santa Ysabel to Pala
- Aug 31 Pala to Lakeside
- Sept 1 Lakeside to Chicano Park
- San Ysidro to Chicano Park
- Sept 2 & 3 Rest Days
- Sept 4 Chicano Park to Manzanita
- Sept 5 Manzanita to Ocotillo
- Sept 6 Ocotillo to Quechan
Respectfully,
Joe Lara, San Diego PDJ 2012
Organizing Committee, 619-988-0675
