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Winter Solstice is the moment during the year when the path of the Sun is farthest from the earth. Indigenous cultures believe that the ceremony is offered to thank the sun and mother earth for providing and to offer strength for its return.
It is important for the young people of Merced to host to honor Indigenous practices, to gather and create community, to share the knowledge which offered a new experience and gave residents a chance to reflect on the significance of the ceremony for Indigenous people.
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- Mexica Danzantes performing sacred dances as part of the winter solstice ceremonies.
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- Runners stop at a memorial for an infant who a victim of gun violence in Merced.
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- Participants of the healing run pause at a memorial to be blessed with indigenous medicine setting intentions of healing and strength on their run and to share with the community of South Merced.
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- Participants of the healing run pause to bless the memorial of an infant who was a victim of gun violence in Merced.
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- Healing run participants jog in groups to share intentions of healing and strength.
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- Healing run participants jog in groups to share intentions of healing and strength.
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- Healing run participants jog in groups to share intentions of healing and strength.
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- Runners convene at Applegate Park for the final route.
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- Humador used to bless ceremonies held by solstice attendant.
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- Elders leading songs sacred to ceremony that serve as prayers shared with the community.
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- Crowd gathers in circle to offer prayer and support to one another.
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- Youth participant adorns trees with Papyrus sheets to offer gratitude to Mother Earth.
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- Youth participant adorns trees with Papyrus sheets to offer gratitude to Mother Earth.
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- Participant leading songs sacred to ceremony that serve as prayers shared with the community.
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- Residents and elders joined in a dance of friendship meant for celebration to represent life cycles.
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- Preparing Tlamanalli items for ceremony grounding.
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- Danzante receives medicinal blessings from Maestra Laura Castro.
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- Mexica Danzantes performing sacred dances as part of the winter solstice ceremonies.
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- Mexica Danzantes performing sacred dances as part of the winter solstice ceremonies.
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- Community members enjoy painting terracotta pots.
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- Youth Leader Minnie receives a healing stick from Maestro Castro to help keep and protect.
