Roots Break Walls Part II: Rooting Abundance
The radicle power of the seed grounds it by digging deep and receiving the gifts of the earth that have accumulated over time. At the first Roots Break Walls workshop held at the National Butterfly Center, participants explored their natural, cultural, and historical roots. The interdependence amongst one another and nature was made clear through the conversations shared while surrounded by the chachalacas and green jays that chimed in with their calls.
For participant Julia-Paz Garza, the workshop was a reminder that her “roots” are in the RGV, “Seeing the world like a family tree is a reminder to love nature the way I love my mom. I must love and care for mother nature in order to keep it growing and allowing more “flowers”/”families” to bloom.” She adds:
“Our roots are the rose bushes that our mothers planted, the river that runs through our land, the cactus that keeps us healthy, and the palm trees that remind us that we are home after being away on vacation for so long. Our roots are the traditions that we gained from our grandparents/parents, that we then pass on to our children/nieces/nephews. Our roots are who we were, deep in the soil, keeping us grounded as we grow and become better people, not just to ourselves, but to our friends, strangers, and the world.”
Stewarding Interdependence
The second Roots Break Walls workshop will continue the conversation on interdependence at the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands on April 8th from 5:30 – 8 pm. A brief history of the region’s native environment will be shared and explored.
We’ll transition the discussion into an interactive identification exercise where participants will encounter native plants with edible fruit, foliage, or root systems. The participants will then go out into the field and try to identify native edibles with the help of our Field Guide Zine.
Created in collaboration with artist Cecilia Sierra, the Field Guide Zine includes illustrations and information on over a dozen plants from the region. The purpose of the zine is to make information on foraging and native plant stewardship more accessible. In addition, participants who identify the most plants may have a chance to win a foraging basket full of goodies for your adventures.
After having learned about and experienced nature we want to connect to the guiding value of stewardship. We will discuss reconnecting with the land through labor and caring for native plants as a way to steward abundance. The workshop will end with a plant and seed distribution guided by plant care tips from local gardening and nature enthusiasts.
Join us for the second Root Break Walls workshop to learn more about the region’s natural environment through art and knowledge sharing. Light refreshments will be provided; those interested in participating should RSVP here or can stop by the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands on April 8th. Let’s learn and grow together!
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Jesus Treviño is a wonderful example of Rio Grande Valley talent nurtured by amazing art educators. His exhibition, La Carrera Fading in the Sun, shows an artist who pushes past mastery of the medium and is sharpening his voice and identity.
On Saturday, May 13th, a deadly tornado tore through Laguna Heights, causing significant damage. Current efforts are taking place to help the Laguna Heights community.
