WiserEarth Group Support

We made it!  We arrived in Albuquerque late last night, but everyone still had energy to go out for a celebratory drink.  In the morning, we had our final meeting, as we prepared to go forward into the next phase of the work -- the Transformative Advocacy Network.  Each of our delegates has agreed to commit at least 10 hours/ year for at least a year of research and writing-based support for the women we've met, so that they can contact us when our services would be appropriate and effective.  Some of the ideas the women suggested were the compilation of fact sheets from dense legal documents, briefing papers regarding proposed federal legislation, support for ongoing advocacy before the U.N., and grant-writing support, among others.  We're all excited to be of service in a meaningful, tangible way, after witnessing all of the destruction to the land and the people, as well as the strength and radiance of all of the women leaders whom we've met along the way.

It was a truly remarkable and life-altering journey.  We made our way through three states, six communities, and ten organizations; our team absorbed facts, asked questions, bore witness, shed tears, and laughed together.  Each of us is transformed in some way -- whether it be through a broadened context in which to envision and implement our work, a commitment to being in service of the Native American environmental justice movement however we can, or a renewed sense of our own strength and purpose as advocates.  We leave this trip having developed powerful alliances and lasting friendships.  Our minds are expanded and our hearts are opened.  I feel so grateful to be able to do this work, in this way, at this time.  Thank you for following along!  Please stay tuned for program updates and opportunities to become involved!

I am the woman who holds up the sky.

My feet are planted in all generations.

My roots go deep into melted rock.

I walk through darkest night

wearing starlight in my hair.

I am the woman who holds up the sky.

The rainbow runs through my eyes.

The sun makes a path to my womb,

my thoughts are in the shape of clouds,

but my words are yet to come.

- Ute woman

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