As a way to uplift the collective wisdom and inspiration, our Indigo Cultural Center team share things that have moved us recently in our body, mind, and spirit:
“Recently, I rewatched Disney's "Encanto" and the principle of valuing multiple truths resonated with me. The character Mirabel, who is not gifted with magical powers
like the rest of her family, teaches the importance of embracing and valuing one's unique qualities. It's a lesson in self-acceptance and self-worth. While the movie encourages embracing individuality, it also shows the value of tradition and the importance of
passing down cultural and familial traditions from one generation to the next.”
- Angelique Kane (Racial Equity Specialist)
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
“I find myself incredibly moved with every chapter of this book. The way the author intertwines her vast scientific knowledge of plants with the deeply rooted knowledge of indigenous communities stays with me long after I put the book down. I love the idea of a reciprocal relationship with the earth, where we take care of the plants and animals that in turn take care of us. The reoccurring theme of thanksgiving and gratitude permeate my interactions throughout the day and I find myself looking for ways that even in our current reality, I can live a more connected and rooted existence. “
- Jena Nagamine (Director of Finance/HR)
Farm Dreams
“As someone who is venturing into the homesteading life in Arkansas, I am in awe of other Black and Brown women who have become stewards of the land and are sharing their knowledge with others. “Farm Dreams” is a series that documents the journey of Indy Officianalis as she connects aspiring farmers with the supports to help them fulfill their dreams of loving in harmony with nature on their own terms.”
- Krystle Canare (Racial Equity Program Manager)
"America is an old house" an excerpt from
Caste: The Origins of our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
"I was shown this excerpt from the UW Madison Capstone. Isabel Wilkerson compares our current position in America to inheriting an old house. While we were not around during the building of this house, we are still responsible for taking care of our old house; if we ignore the issues we are inviting more destruction. A specific quote that spoke to me is, “Ignorance is no protection from the consequences of inaction. Whatever you are wishing away will gnaw at you until you gather the courage to face what you would rather not see” . For me personally I am trying to take a more active role in causes that I consider myself to be an ally."
-Ashley Mentz (Research Associate)
Black Liturgies
@blackliturgies on Instagram
“Tonia Spence from the Irving Harris Foundation turned me on to this beautiful source. Black Liturgies is firmly grounded in Black Liberation Theology (as is the Nap Ministry), which is a framework that is starting to influence my personal life and my work with Indigo.”
- Eva Marie Shivers (Executive Director)
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