Dear Eager;

It is true many dances are starting up again for the year. It brings me a good feeling to see such important cultural events return to our people. Local Tribes shared cultural ceremonies and rituals as they lived in the same environment. The religion of the local people is based on individual effort through ritual cleanliness and ceremonies that include the entire tribe.

The Tribes of this region practice the annual World Renewal Ceremonies, such as the Karuk Pikyavish, the Tolowa Nee-dash, the Hupa and Yurok White Deerskin Dance, the Wiyot World Renewal Ceremony and most Tribes perform the Sacred Jump Dance. The purpose of the ceremonies is to restore the world or “fix the earth”, as one tribe described it. This includes songs and dances that have been preserved for countless generations.  Local Tribes also host the Brush Dance which is both a social event and a healing ceremony in which the people of the local Tribes dance, sing, make medicine and pray in order to bless or heal a sick child or infant. 

The dance takes place in a Brush Dance pit, and it involves men, boys and young girls. The herbal healing ceremony includes singing, chanting, rhythmic dancing around the medicine fire in the pit and jumping center to confront the evil or sickness. The spectators sit on benches around the pit, also pray and help in the spiritual treatment of the child.  

Girls had a coming-of-age ceremony commonly called a Flower Dance.  This was a rigorous challenge that showed the community that the young girl had learned what was needed to be a productive member of her tribe.

There are a few things for people to keep in mind regarding ceremony protocol. First and foremost is when you attend any ceremony is to be in the proper frame of mind. This involves having positive thoughts and feelings surrounding yourself. If you are having a bad day or in a fight with someone at the dance leave it outside of the ceremonial site or take the higher road and take yourself home.

Another important rule is that these dances are drug and alcohol free. If you are under the influence of any substance make a good choice and stay away from the dance.

It is always polite to not show up empty handed. The kitchen is responsible to serve many meals to whoever and how many people show up. Bring something that is quick and easy to prepare that they can serve as part of a regular meal or set out as an in between activities snack.

There are other rules to follow, if you have any questions just ask someone you know.  For example, there are places that are not appropriate for some people to be. Like no men in the women’s camp and visa versa. Women who are on their moon time should avoid being in the kitchen. Women are expected to wear a long skirt when attending ceremonies but be sure and layer up as it can get quite chilly at night.

The dances themselves are non-recording times. Refrain from taking pictures or making an audio recording. Sometimes there will be a special time set aside after a dance to take pictures, just keep your eyes open and if you have any questions simply ask if it is ok.

Take the opportunity if you are fortunate enough to +to take part in a deeply significant event. Your participation is part of the good spirit and prayers that make these ceremonies so powerful. 

Signed, Ready To Jump Center Dr. Coyote.