Live Blog Post 1: Grace Grotz

In the state of our country, now is the time for collaboration and convivencia of strong, diverse women. The celebration begins with a reflection regarding ancestral lands from Polly Olsen, a member of the Yakima nation. Then, the first UW dance historian, Giavonna White, shares her ability to experience joy through movement by performing an empowering, grounded dance. Ofelia Esparza, master altar-maker, describes the matriarchal history of her family. Ofelia notes how important it is to remember our ancestors are always with us, and we carry legacies of resilience throughout our lives. Her descriptions of our individual “trees of life” is an inspiring and timely reminder for me to remember my family, and how the strength of my ancestors can help me through difficult times.