Join us as Panoka Walker leads us through this traditional practice that continues to be a deeply cherished and meaningful part of our annual gathering. You will be guided through the mental, physical, and spiritual connection to water as we collectively honor this sacred gift through song, movement, and contemplation. As we dedicate our lives to the betterment of the natural world and connections with one another, we take this time to appreciate water’s role in the universe, flowing endlessly through ourselves and everything around us. “When a prayer is said and a song is sung, the water becomes sacred, and can heal body, mind, and spirit.” The ceremony takes place outside on the east patio, so remember to dress warmly! Photography is prohibited during the ceremony, and we ask that you please take the time to silence your phone before entering this shared space.
Monday, January 29th, 2024
5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Presenters
Panoka Walker
Panoka Walker is of mixed European and Anishinabe decent from the Deer Clan and her traditional name is Waa-bskaa Waa-waash-keshi (White Doe). Panoka strongly identifies with her Native roots as a traditional storyteller, song carrier, hand drum maker, and traditional crafts women. Encouraged by her elders after years of apprenticeship inside the sacred circle of life, Panoka is a facilitator of women's ceremonies, a lifelong student of the plant nation, and a teacher of workshops and group presentations to adults and youth. Panoka is affiliated with the Mother Earth Water Walkers who bring awareness to the Water as the Life blood of the Earth. Panoka is the proud mother of two beautiful daughters being brought up in the traditional way. She along with her husband, Deer Walker, make their home in Monroe, Michigan.
Panoka Walker has shared her gift of creativity through story telling for many years at school programs, libraries, museums, workshops and cultural events.