Seventh Generation Fund

Artist Networks and Convenings

Location:

Arcata, CA

Award:

$12,000

Project:

Echoes of the Earth in Times of Climate Change

Website:

www.7genfund.org

In coordination with regional partners, the project will convene an "arts and the environment" focused symposium at the Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture, in Bozeman, Montana. This special convening, slated for April 2012, will bring together key culture bearers and artists of the region and nationally. The gathering promises a highly interactive discourse to build awareness and illuminate the needs for Native community engagement and preparedness for the imminent climate change impacts on traditional cultures and tribal ecosystems. A written report and an accompanying DVD will be prepared and distributed to Native and arts, culture, environmental and philanthropic affinity groups.

“These gifts demonstrate strong tribal interest in creating a powerful funding engine for protecting and preserving Native art and culture—the very cornerstones of tribal sovereignty. A foundation of this nature will help reverse the long history of government suppression of Native culture done as part of the United States' assimilation program. Through gifts of this nature, Indian Country can direct its resources to protect what is closest to home to all Indian tribes—our own cultures."

Walter Echo-Hawk, Pawnee

Board Chair, Native Arts & Cultures Foundation

“The act of giving was part of the ‘gifting economy’ of the Northwest where one’s wealth was measured by generosity, good work and a good heart. That is the work of philanthropy too: It’s an honor to have plenty and to share. There is no lack when you have this process in place and the most important mindset to have while participating is gratitude, or giving thanks and promising to care for all, no matter what.”

Elizabeth Woody, Navajo/Warm Springs/Wasco/Yakama

K-12 Program Coordinator, Center for Coastal Marine Observation & Prediction

Seventh Generation Fund

2011/2012 Grantees

2010/2011 Grantees