White Hawk Iztatutli: Coming of Age Ceremony
I love to see history alive and was able to capture the vibrant spirit of White Hawk Iztatutli during their 41st Annual Xilonen, Ceremony of Tender Corn in Watsonville. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to engaging our community's youth in indigenous practices, primarily through the beautiful art of Danza Azteca.
The Xilonen ceremony is a rich and meaningful event that celebrates the first harvest of corn, a staple in indigenous culture. It honors Xilonen, the goddess of young corn, symbolizing nourishment, growth, and the connection to the earth. During this ceremony, participants express gratitude for the harvest and engage in traditional dances, music, and rituals that have been passed down through generations.
It was so inspiring to see the youth actively participating, learning about their heritage, and embracing these traditions. And this event took dedication to participate in - it over 3 hours long! The energy and enthusiasm of the participants was palpable, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural roots and community. I love to see more cultural nurturing environments for young people nowadays to explore their identity and connect with their history through these practices. It’s not just about the dance; it's about fostering pride, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
And there are so few times that I can find non-landscape uses of infrared film, which is my favorite way to look at somethig familiar in “a new light”. By twisting the regular colors into something new, it transforms familiar scenes into something wonderfully alien. This unique perspective allows us to revisit places and objects we know by heart, revealing hidden details or emotions that often go unnoticed or have been forgotten.
If you’re looking to engage with your cultural heritage or want to support youth in our community, consider getting involved with White Hawk. Together, we can celebrate and sustain these beautiful traditions for future generations! Be sure to follow them on Instagram to catch their next ceremony or get involved with their efforts to keep history alive.
