Staff Report
Four local Chumash tribes will co-host Supak’a, a day of traditional Chumash activities and educational opportunities for their communities and the public, at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9.
The free event will display the diversity of the Chumash tribes, the rich traditions of the indigenous peoples of the region, and the cultural preservation efforts of the Chumash communities for future generations.
Involved in the gathering are four Chumash tribes from around the tri-counties area: the Barbareño Band of Chumash Indians, Barbareño/Ventureño Band of Mission Indians, Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, and yak tityu tityu yak tiłhini Northern Chumash Tribe of San Luis Obispo County and Region.
According to the California Indian Advisory Council, “Supak’a gives our tribal communities the opportunity to briefly expose and provide a greater understanding about who we are culturally and a glimpse at what values we hold true. This event is also a testament to a common practice amongst Native communities — partnerships with neighboring entities to enhance the overall experience for all, a sharing of resources to create this phenomenal annual event, Supak’a.”
Cultural activities include singing, dancing, storytelling, basket weaving demonstrations, crafts, games, and more. Support for the event is provided by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation and the city of Santa Barbara.
For more information, visit sbnature.org.
