Pachamama

Friends-

Pachamama is not a word that those of us who grew up in North America would necessarily know. While 'Mama' is pretty clear to us all, the word Pacha apparently comes from South American Indigenous populations in countries such as Peru and Bolivia. In my lifetime, use of the word 'Pachamama' has grown and has become known in North, Central and South America as a respectful, if not reverent, term for Mother Earth.

There have been a few times in recent years where I was asked to make an 'Ofrenda' (Altar) to show respect for Mother Earth at Day of the Dead ceremonies. Before I had made her beautiful – a glorious globe of oceans and continents. She was recognizable and attractive and adored by her visitors. We decorated her table with food and flowers and joyous gifts, and celebrated her beauty -- just as we did on the Altars of relatives that had passed on.

But this year is different. I can't make her beautiful when I know she is in so much pain.

We are experiencing climate change catastrophes – most recently in Hawaii – making the comparison of Pachamama to a loved one that is dying much more real. She has not yet passed on, but it sure seems that she is in the death throes. In this painting, most of those already in the afterworld are trying to save her. Push her back, gift her with marigolds and other flowers, issue reprimands at Big Oil god and those that ignore her needs….

These images are imaginary, but imagination alone will not save us. We need real action right now. Consider what you can do to help save Pachamama.

Thank you to El Dorado Arts and Culture for honoring us with funding for the Sugar Skull project which culminates on the Day of the Dead.

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