Summer Solstice 2020 - Niipó

Summer Solstice 2020 - Niipó

As we approach Summer Solstice we appreciate the light and longer days—as well as the blooms, shoots, and leaves— during these turbulent times, which are also seeding many beautiful things. We extend our gratitude to Elder Holy Walking Woman, founding member of the CRP Elders Lodge, for graciously sharing this teaching for the CRP Summer Newsletter. 

Oki,Niistoàko'kNatowawaawahkaki. Nomah'totoo - Mamyoyiiksi.

Greetings! I am Holy Walking Woman. I come from the Fish Eater Clan of The Blackfoot People, Niitsitapi. 

Nitsiipommok' Ksisskstakyomopisstaan. I have transferred rites including: the songs, ochre and ceremonies of the Beaver Bundle. Niitsikohtahsiitak' - I humbly share these with you. The ancient rock formations strewn about our landscapes have been constructed by the Beaver Bundle Owners, "Iiyaohkiimiiksi". We still visit, make offerings and sing our songs at these power places to bring all our voices together at significant times throughout the year. The Summer Solstice - Niipó is the longest and most powerful day of the year for the Sun, Naapi Naató'si, is among us. The Sacred path of the Sun is strong and straight at the time of Summer Solstice, the rock formations are in alignment with this path. The Songs of the Beaver Bundle are collectively referred to as: Kiisomainksskstsists - "Sun's Songs". They represent a unique relationship with: Spomiitapiiksi ("Above Beings" - cosmology) and  Kinamyaanisstsipiiksiiksi ("All creatures" - biodiversity). The Beaver Bundle Owners will count the moons by turning over a beaver stick for each of the thirteen moons. Now, is the moon of "Long Rains" or Miisaamsootamsta. The Beaver Bundle is our Blackfoot Biocultural baseline.