In 2009 EarthAction became aware of a very important and time sensitive project regarding the transmission of sacred knowledge of the indigenous peoples of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region of Colombia, and we became the sponsor of this project.
Norberto Torres (Mamo Sewkukuy), an Arhuaco elder about 90 years old, is recognized throughout the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta as "The Spiritual Geographer" for the manner in which he has dedicated his life to honoring his legacy. It is said that he was “dreamed” or thought into existence by those living three generations prior to his birth. He has journeyed almost all of the Sierra Nevada by foot and knows it like the palm of his hand. Within his area of expertise, Mamo Sewkukuy has no equal and unfortunately no heir, due to the tragic death of his son whom he was training to carry on his legacy.
It is with a sense of urgency (because of his advanced age and increasing difficulty walking) that Mamo Sewkukuy has asked us to help him to fulfill his obligation to pass on his knowledge to the next generation by funding this sacred journey along The Black Line. He has requested that at least four members from each group (Kogis, Arhuacos, Wiwas and Kankuamos) accompany him to learn first-hand the manner in which the offerings at the 54 sacred sites are to be made. The Traditional Authorities (mamos) of the Sierra Nevada agree that this journey is crucial for the preservation and continuance of their culture. They also have requested that the journey be recorded in video for their internal archives. All footage shot during the journey will become the sole property of the Elders of the four indigenous groups.
The Black Line forms a virtual triangle around the base of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, approximately 100 miles on each side connecting the 54 sacred sites. This Line also delineates the ancestral territorial boundaries of the four indigenous groups of the Sierra Nevada. Mamo Sewkukuy holds the knowledge of the ways in which the traditional offerings must be made at the sacred sites along the Black Line and how each of these sites interconnect energetically with the other sacred sites within the Sierra Nevada and in turn radiate out to the rest of the world. In accordance with their law of origin, offerings must be made at these sites in order to properly care for “The Heart of the World” and maintain planetary balance.
About 23 people (including at least 19 indigenous mamos and apprentices) will travel in three rented land rovers visiting an average of four sites a day on a two-week journey set to begin January 15th 2010. This will be the first time in recent memory that the four indigenous groups will make this journey together.
The projected budget is $27,000
The Elders Project is now accepting tax deductible donations through EarthAction, an educational and charitable organization with 501(c)(3) tax status. Donations to “The Elders Project” from US citizens are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.
Make your check payable to: “The Elders Project” and send it to:
EarthAction
attn: The Elders Project,
P. O. Box 63,
Amherst, MA 01004
Hi, I am wondering whether this project has gone forward and if so how it went and if not why it was not possible. I am currently in Taganga and about to produce a video of Ciudad Perdida in association with Sierra Tours. However, I am also researching to make a short documentary style video about the significance of the Sacred sites in Sierra Nevada and the historical and contemporary struggles being faced by the Indigenous peoples inhabiting the region. Any information you could provide or any statements you could provide would be greatly valued.
Jessica Crump
GetUp&GoFilms
getupandgofilms@gmail.com
Posted by: Jessica Crump | May 21, 2010 at 05:24 PM