Peace and Dignity Journeys 2016

RUN TAINO RUN

From New York City in July to Panama in November, more than 5,382 miles through 8 countries, for more than four (4) months runners, from the Caribbean region and indeed the world, will participate in the seventh (7^th) Peace and Dignity Journey.  Peace and Dignity Journeys were initiated in 1992 in response to a prophecy regarding the Eagle and the Condor and the initiative of Elders who saw spiritual running as a vehicle to reunite the nations of the Americas i.e. Turtle Island.  It is said that Elders from North, Central and South America remembered and talked about a prophecy that foretold how indigenous peoples would come together again and reunite as one.  The Peace and Dignity Journeys, held every 4 years till now, have helped many different indigenous groups to start this journey for unity.

Jamaica will be among the newcommers to the 2016 Peace and Dignity Journey.  It is widely documented that the Taíno people had been living in Jamaica for over 800 years before they found Columbus in the waters of the Caribbean Sea.  Having arrived in the Island from as early as about 650 AD the Taíno people brought with them various crops, plants, agricultural and fishing techniques, many of which remain a part of our present day Taíno heritage.  Social practices, values and beliefs that promoted respect and helpful actions to sustain and replicate the conditions of life to provide for positive growth and development of individuals, family and community, were also integral to their way of life.   In fact they had a wholesome and complete culture that governed every aspect of their life with a focus on conserving/preserving the earth and all life forms for the use of future generations.

So for the first time Jamaica will take its place with other Taíno home lands in this spiritual run. A contingent of at least three (3) runners from Jamaica will represent our taino history, heritage  and legacy.  Recognizing the Tainos as the  ‘first nation’ i.e. indigenous people of Jamaica our runners will participate in this spiritual run as a powerful prayer for unity, healing and prosperity for all indigenous communities all over the world.

Among the Tainos and other indigenous groups the coming together of the Eagle and Condor signifies the meeting of the North and the South.  In the South are the Caribbean people who are the caretakers of the earth.  The South is represented by the colour green and carries the cleansing energy of the  John Crow/Condor.  The North is the home of the caucasions and they are caretakers of fire.  It is represented by the colour white and carries the energy of the Eagle.       The meeting of these two directions bring together the attributes of Innocence and openminddness of the South and the wisdom and experience of the North.

Preparations for the run has started.  They will involve the preparation of a Jamaica prayer staff, efforts to inform and involve Jamaica as a whole in the activity, solicitation of funds to cover airfares to and from the starting and finishing points of the run, food and other expenses, i.e. running gears etc, and various other activities  and rituals to build spiritual and physical strength for the journey. 

Run TAINO Run!!!

Run TAINO Run!!!

Run TAINO Run Jamaica!!!

Run TAINO Run!!!

We invite you to get involved!!

Please note that the Coat of Arms is being used without the permission of the Government of Jamaica

Sankofie

1B Ellerslie Way, Irish Town, Kingston & St Andrew, Jamaica

  Email: afuafofie@hotmail.com

Tele: 876 504 4855: 531 2414