The Convening of Indigenous Peoples for the Healing of Mother Earth.
Palenque, Mexico
March 10^th – 13^th 2008

Over a hundred Indigenous people from Canada, Mexico and the United States gathered in Palenque, Mexico to discuss environmental challenges and explore traditional solutions to heal Mother Earth. Discussions focused on the Original Teachings and the four sacred elements: Earth, Air, Water and Fire. Beyond the tangible aspect of our relationships with all the sacred elements, there is intangible interaction. The role of the sacred elements is central in our customs, traditions, stories, songs, and dances.

"Part of our role is to wake up the world. It is very obvious to us all that the climate is changing"
(Bill Erasmus, Regional Chief, Assembly of First Nations, Canada).

"Our Mother Earth is being polluted at an alarming rate and our elders say that she is dying"
(Raymond Sensmeier, Tlingit leader, Yakutat, Alaska).

"As people from the land, we are the most vulnerable."

The Convening received widespread attention from Mexican and International Media sources.

“Indians Gather to Save the Planet” Mark Stevenson, Associated Press Article

“Aboriginal leaders gather in Mexico in find ways to help planet”, Associated Press"

“The way the weather is around the world...a cleansing is needed."

Earth is the Mother that nurtures us all.
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Air is the sacred breath of life.
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Water is the life blood of all living things.
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Fire is meant to ignite and unite the spirit of humanity.

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“As caretakers of Mother Earth, speaking with one spirit, one mind, one heart and as one family, utilizing the original teachings given to human beings by the Creator, we will restore balance and harmony to Mother Earth and all her children…”

See the Palenque Declaration, a living message and Call to Action.