Diné Hataałii Association orders ceremonial halt after New Mexico drownings
DÁ’DEESTŁ’IN HÓTSAA
The Diné Hataałii Association has ordered a temporary halt to ceremonies and ceremonial gatherings under its authority following the drowning deaths of three people in New Mexico.
The association issued an emergency declaration Sept. 16 calling for ceremonies, ceremonial gatherings and related ceremonial activities to stop until after the full moon Saturday, Sept. 26. The order applies to hataałii, ceremonial practitioners, chapters, members and others under the authority or guidance of the Diné Hataałii Association. Avery Denny, the association’s president, signed the declaration.
The declaration states that the temporary cessation follows traditional responsibilities surrounding mourning, respect and the proper time for spiritual observance.
“This loss reaches beyond the immediate family and touches relatives, communities, and all those who carry the responsibility of prayer and ceremony,” the declaration states.
Those covered by the declaration are directed to observe the cessation unless specifically authorized otherwise by the association. No ceremonial activity is to be scheduled, initiated or conducted under the name or authority of the Diné Hataałii Association during the period.
The declaration calls for the period to be observed through mourning and respect for those who died, prayer and remembrance for families and relatives and spiritual reflection and restoration of balance. It also calls for respect for the traditional order governing mourning and ceremony and unity during the period of loss.
Hataałii and association members are directed to uphold the declaration with discipline, respect and compassion while following their traditional responsibilities.
“The hataałii and members of the association are called upon to uphold this declaration with discipline, respect, compassion, and adherence to our traditional responsibilities,” the declaration states. “This is a time to allow the families to grieve and to allow prayers to be offered in their proper time and manner.”
The declaration also asks that the Holy People guide the grieving families and that those who died be remembered with dignity and respect. It calls for strength, comfort, protection and healing for their relatives and others affected by the deaths.
“Following the full moon, the Diné Hataałii Association will provide direction concerning the resumption of ceremonies and ceremonial activities.”
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