Join us in our journey of preserving and celebrating Hispanic-Indigenous heritage with "Papakō: The Journey"!
Our theatre production aims to reconnect Hispanic-Indigenous youth and families with their rich American Indian cultural roots, often overlooked in Texas. Through the captivating story of cousins Juan and Joseph, audiences embark on a transformative journey, guided by ancestral wisdom and the spirit of their homeland.
🌿✨We need your help to bring this production to life. 🌿✨
About Papakō :
“Papakō: The Journey” is a theatre production for Hispanic-Indigenous youth and their families to help them learn about and treasure their American Indian cultural heritage and history, which has virtually been erased in Texas. In this story, two young cousins, Juan and Joseph are prompted by a mysterious message from beyond the grave to set out on a harrowing trip that eventually leads them to the White Shaman rock art painting near Comstock, Texas. At this ancient pictograph, nestled in a dark cliff recess overhanging the converging Pecos and Rio Grande rivers, the cousins cross over into the mystical world of their ancestors and a startling message is revealed – “Return our bodies to Mother Earth." This is a compelling, intergenerational, Indigenous story that inspires audiences from all walks of life.
This play production will expose a historically underserved population and the public to a unique story written and produced by Indigenous people. As the two boys travel across Texas they learn about the Coahuiltecan creation story, the cycle of life belief systems and traditions of their people, two drumming songs in the language of their ancestors, and the knowledge that they belong to a people with a 14,000-year history in their Texas homeland. This play will contribute to the promotion and appreciation of Indigenous art, music, and storytelling, which will reinforce the importance and relevance of their place in this society.
We're striving to raise $2,000 to make this vision a reality. Whether it's through a one-time donation or joining our support team and becoming a monthly recurring donor, every contribution counts. Together, let's ensure that "Papakō" continues to inspire and educate generations to come.
Our latest award-winning production: 'Yana Wana's Legend of the Bluebonnet' was able to reach over 13,000 young people in Texas and across Turtle Island. With your help we will be able to take the story of Papakō across Texas and once again share this new inspiring story with thousands of young people, educators, and families.
Video Trailer for 'Yana Wana's Legend of the Bluebonnet'.
Winner of B. Iden Payne Awards: Best Production and Best Director (Rudy Ramirez) in Theatre for Young Audiences
About Indigenous Cultures Institute:
For almost 20 years the Indigenous Cultures Institute has been on a journey of service for our community, justice and equity for all people, and balance for Mother Earth. “Papakō ” means “The Journey” in Coahuiltecan, the language of the original Native people of the lands currently called Texas and Northeastern Mexico. Coahuiltecans have a 14,000 year history of continuous habitation in their homeland and still retain ancient, sacred knowledge. With this sacred Medicine we’ve founded 12 programs serving over 56,000 people annually, supported by generous contributions from our relations and allies. Walk with us on this journey towards a new world that deconstructs failed systems and restores sacred Medicine.
With your 100% tax-deductible donations you will help the Indigenous Cultures Institute secure venues, transportation, and engage audiences in San Marcos, Austin, Wimberly, Laredo, Mission, and Killeen. Be a part of this opportunity to create positive change in supporting the artistic endeavors of the original caretakers of these lands. We are humbled and grateful with all that exists in the universe.
Your donation is tax deductible under Internal Revenue Service Tax Code Section 501(c)(3).
The Indigenous Cultures Institute’s employer identification number (EIN) is 20-5429900.
Other methods of donating:
To mail a check to ICI, please send your donation to:
Indigenous Cultures Institute
4501 Felicity Lane
Austin, Texas 78725