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| Taíno community members manifesting Bronx Indigenous Futurisms at Snakapins. Photo by Kaxhyêk |
Bronx, NY (UCTP Taíno News) – On October 9, a diverse group gathered at Clason Point Park peninsula in the Bronx, NY to pay homage to the Siwanoy with a land acknowledgment ceremony, storytelling, and music. The gathering was led by Taíno community member Caridad de la Luz, also known as La Bruja, in collaboration with Pepatián: Bronx Arts Collaborative. The program manifested under the title “Bronx Indigenous Futurisms” and sought to raise the visibility of Clason Point’s Indigenous history as well as acknowledge “Indigenous Peoples Day.” Clason Point, known to the Siwanoy as "Snakapins," was the site of a large American Indian settlement comprising more than seventy dwellings.
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| Caridad de la Luz |
Leading the ceremonial portion of the gathering was Behike Miguel Sague, a founder of the Caney Indigenous Spiritual Circle. Sagua's Taíno lineage originates in Cuba. Elder Sague is also the United Confederation of Taíno People’s Ambassador to Cuba. Lonnie Harrington, of Seminole heritage, was also a featured presenter who also shared songs that encouraged those gathered to join the circle and dance.
Also addressing the gathering by invitation was the President of the United Confederation of Taíno People (UCTP), R. Múkaro Agüeibaná Borrero who attend with his spouse, Joselyn Borrero (Tlingit). Borrero, who is also a Kasike (chief) of the Guainía Taíno Tribe, presented a special gift to Caridad de la Luz in recognition of her efforts and on behalf of the UCTP.
The program also featured an installation dedicated to Indigenous Women and a plaque dedicated to the Siwanoy was added to one of the park benches overlooking the water, which is the confluence of the Bronx and East Rivers.
UCTPTN 10112021
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