FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CANCELATION OF 2020 MANY WINTERS GATHERING OF ELDERS
SAN PEDRO, CA., SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 – For the wellbeing of the elders, families, and community, the Many Winters Gathering Of Elders (MWGOE) Committee, in partnership with Angels Gate Cultural Center (AGCC), announces the cancelation of the 2020 MWGOE ceremony. Much time and thought was put into the decision, with the best interest of the people in mind. As planning continues, the Committee is excited to share news of an upcoming video release of MWGOE highlights, including excerpts of speakers, video footage, and photos – slated for November, Native American Heritage Month – in an effort to bring elders’ teachings to the community.
In accordance with the seventh generation philosophy, the decisions made today will impact future generations. This has become ever-apparent this year, as the world witnesses and experiences the effects of COVID-19, the social unrest in reaction to the killing of George Floyd, and the unprecedented fires burning across California and the remaining west coast. MWGOE acknowledges that with the rapid destruction and deterioration of the Earth through global warming, the contamination of water and air – the return of spiritual connection to the land and Native teachings is necessary for the survival of all living beings. The elders and ancestors prophesized and forewarned about these current events, understood as widespread repercussions of colonization and collective trauma, across Turtle Island and the world.
The MWGOE was created on October 12, 1992 on traditional Tongva territories, in opposition to the quincentennial celebrations of Columbus Day – to reclaim traditional spaces, dismantle the myth of Manifest Destiny, and to heal from historical and intergenerational trauma. The annual MWGOE plays a vital role in the Los Angeles Native community’s healing, with the participation and support of the original peoples of the land. The vision of the Gathering is to host a sacred space in an urban setting for people to come together, with the intention to learn, pray, support Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, and to inspire a healthier future for Native people. The Gathering hosts and welcomes Indigenous elders from across Turtle Island to share oral traditions, teachings, and medicine. Indigenous elders were central in sharing their living knowledge, daily and generational struggles while participating at the annual Gatherings over the years.
The Committee plans to host the 16th MWGOE ceremony in October 2021, to fulfill their initial four year commitment as the second generation organizing group. The Committee is comprised of community members representing various tribes including the local Tongva, Chumash, Ajachemen, as well as organizations: Red Earth Defense, Xican@ Records & Film, and AGCC.
For more information regarding the Many Winters Gathering Of Elders, including press inquiries, please call Stephanie Mushrush at (562) 265-8423 or visit mwgoe.org and angelsgateart.org. Donations are also being accepted for the 16th MWGOE at https://www.gofundme.com/f/mwgoe2021.
