Gratitude Ritual to Honor the Petaluma River
Let's come together to offer our love and appreciation for this vital body of water on June 15th!
Date and time
Location
Petaluma River Park
100 East D Street Petaluma, CA 94952Refund Policy
About this event
- 3 hours
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to respect and advocate for the rights of nature. In this spirit, we, a small group of grief tenders, have been orchestrating a Gratitude Ritual to honor the Petaluma River.
The Petaluma River has been and continues to be a life-sustaining artery for humans and our more than human relatives throughout time. The river connects to myriad other waterways and food-sheds and knits together the diverse communities that comprise the North Bay. We welcome your participation in paying homage to the river on June 15th, 2024, from 10:00am to 1:00pm at the Petaluma River Park.
We ask that all participants arrive promptly at 10:00am and commit to the duration of the three-hour ritual. Please RSVP for more detailed information or feel free to reach out with any general questions about the experience.
We request a $15 - $20 donation to cover expenses, with the remainder going to the Petaluma River Park Foundation, the 501c3 nonprofit organization that is building a park for all in central Petaluma with a mission to meet our vital need for shared space that connects people, art, and nature. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If you can afford to pay more than the suggested donation amount, your donation will sponsor another attendee.
Children of all ages are welcome as are service animals. Although pets are welcome at the Petaluma River Park, we ask that you leave them at home in respect of the ritual container.
Thank you so much, and we look forward to your participation!
Frequently asked questions
The microclimates in Petaluma’s climate vary widely. We recommend bringing a collapsible chair, sunscreen, a wide brim hat, an umbrella, and an extra layer in case the morning is chilly or the winds are strong. You may also want to bring snack items and drinking water.
10-100
From the Dagara tradition of West Africa, disseminated by Malidoma and Sobonfu Some to practitioners such as Francis Weller and many others.
The ritual will be held in a gravel clearing, which is about 10 minutes on foot from the Steamer Landing parking lot. The pathway is relatively flat to access the ritual location but may be uneven in some areas. The pathway is also a fire road with enough clearance for wheelchairs.
We are asking all participants to bring water from home in a one gallon jug and a vessel to carry the water to the central altar. Please bring flowers and other natural materials to beautify the central altar. Bring photographs of beloved places in nature, loved ones, and more than human allies.
We ask you to bring a journal and writing implement. Bring your voice to contribute to the singing and poetry or spoken word to add to the circle of gratitude. If you would like to stay for a meal after the ritual, bring a non-perishable lunch with you.