Join us for a weekend of Tule Teachings, led by Diana Almendariz and her daughters Christina Almendariz and Ooti Maxine. Through two free, public events – a field trip and a hands-on workshop – they will introduce the community to the natural and cultural importance of tule, and share their understanding of how tule has been – and can be again – interwoven into our land, waterways and our lives, through stories and touch. 

While rooted in Wintun ecology and culture, learning to care for tule benefits all those who live alongside it. With this in mind, Diana complements her cultural storytelling with scientific knowledge, and encourages a holistic approach to learning where all compatible perspectives are encouraged to thrive.

Field Trip to the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area | Suggested Donation please RSVP
Saturday May 3, 9 am-12pm
Caravan begins at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Headquarters (45211 Co Rd 32B (aka Chiles Rd), Davis, CA 95618). This auto-tour through the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area will introduce participants to the natural ecology of these wetlands, along with its plant, animal, insect, and bird familiars. The caravan will stop at 2 locations for exploration and discussion with Diana and other knowledge keepers of the marsh. Space is limited, so ride-shares and carpools are strongly encouraged.

Please complete our registration form so we may gather information on how to best accommodate the needs of our community members. Further instructions (including agenda, what to bring, etc) will be emailed to registrants closer to the event. 

Please register for this event here: bit.ly/tulefieldtrip

Making with Tule Hands-on Workshop | Suggested Donation please RSVP
Sunday, May 4, 3-6pm
International House Davis, backyard
The workshop will introduce participants to how tule has been used historically by Native Californian peoples, and how we might care for it so it can take care of us. Created for beginners, the workshop will help you feel comfortable with handling and using tule for making cordage and/or dolls. Light refreshments will be provided. 

Please register for this event here: bit.ly/tuleteaching

Bios:

Diana Almendariz is a naturalist, culture-bearer, storyteller, and visual artist who has been working on the cultural and ecological revival and restoration of her Wintun homeland for over three decades. Her practice includes storytelling, land-based pedagogy, and traditional arts such as basket-weaving, boat-making, and more. She has been passing on this knowledge to her daughters who are accomplished cultural workers themselves. 

Christina is a Native Californian cultural practitioner of Maidu/Wintun/Hupa and Yurok heritage, a Montessori teacher and mother of five, who is passionate about nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. 

Ooti Maxine is a cultural practitioner and a visual artist, who has grown up in her Maidu homeland in Sacramento, and speaks of the many influences that shape contemporary life for Native Californians.

This project is a partnership of the YoloSol Collective, the International House Davis, the Yolo Basin Foundation, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. This project has been made possible in part by a grant from the Alliance for California Traditional Arts, in partnership with the California Arts Council, a state agency, the Walter & Elise Haas Fund, and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, and with support from Imagining America.