Tuesday, November 5, 2024

‘All I can feel is home’: Diné, Pueblos celebrate unity at Bears Ears

‘All I can feel is home’:  Diné, Pueblos celebrate unity at Bears Ears

By Krista Allen
Special to the Times

KIGALIA GUARD STATION, Utah

Sheryl Romero wept as she looked around at the trees in the Manti-La Sal National Forest, not far from Bears Ears National Monument.

Special to the Times | Krista Allen

Traditional games were part of the fun at the annual Bears Ears Gathering

“This looks like our mountains,” Romero said, as she let the atmosphere absorb her. “It’s healing – this is a healing space not only for me personally, but for us (Pueblo people). It’s amazing. All I can feel is home.” Romero is the community coordinator and deals with marketing at Red Willow Farm in Taos Pueblo.

Special to the Times | Krista Allen

The 5th Annual Bears Ears Summer Gathering drew people from many tribes and other ethnicities as well.

During the 5th annual Bears Ears Summer Gathering two weeks ago, Romero gave a presentation about conserving and cultivating heirloom seeds that are closely linked to her people, Naasht’ézhí history, identity and health. On the other hand, she couldn’t feel more at home here where her ancestors lived before deciding to move southeast.

Special to the Times | Krista Allen

The Bears Ears buttes rise serenely behind a field of wildflowers.


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