This year’s theme is dedicated to Tlahtoa – an indigenous concept that encompasses introspection, speaking from the heart, the truth, and is the breath of life.
The Intercontinental prayer run known as the Peace and Dignity Journeys will pass through Pueblo, CO, in mid-July, according to local organizers.
“The run will begin with a fourday ceremony beginning on May 1 in Fairbanks, Alaska,” said Matrina Vega. A southern hemisphere run will begin in Argentina and the two runs will converge at El Cuaca, Colombia in seven months.
Since 1992, the intercontinental run had taken place with the exception of 2020 when the run was cancelled because of COVID. In 2016, the runners stopped in Pueblo for a couple of days. A local contingent accompanied the runners to Chimayo, NM.
“This year’s Peace and Dignity Journeys theme is the concept of Tlahtoa,” said Rachael Plazola, another Pueblo organizer for the run.
“Tlahtoa is an indigenous concept that encompasses introspection, speaking from the heart, the truth and is the breath of life,” Plazola said “As runners, the duty is to carry the messages for the people, not only the words but their meanings. Words in English or Spanish do not fully describe its meaning.”
In 1992, the inaugural Peace and Dignity Journeys united Indigenous peoples from the extremes of the Americas, marking the beginning of a sacred tradition. These journeys, rooted in ancient practices, aim to preserve and revitalize spiritual and cultural traditions, fostering a deep sense of unity among Indigenous communities across Abya Yala (the Western Hemisphere).
At the heart of the Peace and Dignity Journeys is the ceremonial run, an expression of our commitment to spiritual connection, cultural preservation, and the strengthening of intertribal relationships. This tradition transcends mere organization, embodying our ancestors’ vision for healing and unity.
This run symbolizes a collective prayer for strength, unity, and respect among all Indigenous Peoples.
Born from a gathering in Quito, Ecuador, in 1990, the Peace and Dignity Journeys were inspired by the Eagle and Condor Prophecy, predicting the unification of the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas. Every four years, this prophecy is honored through our runs.
“We invite you to be part of this spiritual journey, whether as a runner, supporter, or advocate for Indigenous rights and environmental preservation, Vega said. “Together, we can honor our traditions, heal our communities, and safeguard the future for the next seven generations.”
To support, make donations, or participate, contact Matrina Vega 719-242-3115 , Rachael Plazola 720-486-2699.
For More Information visit our website: www.peaceanddignityjourneys.com
