Creating Ritual - Parallel Healing
This dance exploration is the result of the final exercise at the Horses For Heroes NM Inc. workshop retreat for Exit12 leadership and filmed on location at the Crossed Arrows Ranch, Santa Fe, NM. Creating Ritual - Parallel Healing takes inspiration from indigenous rituals of healing to honor and reintegrate veterans returning from war.
In native traditions, the buffalo are held as examples of protection and healing. When threatened, the stronger buffalo create a circle of protection around the younger and more vulnerable animals. It is an ritual that is mirrored in military service. When a buffalo is injured, the herd in turn protects the "warrior" buffalo. In the same way, when the warrior returned home, in native traditions, the community reversed their role and circled their warriors, welcoming them back into the community while providing protection and healing.
Collaborators: Roman Baca, Adrienne de la Fuente, Lisa Fitzgerald, Taylor Gordon, Rick Iannucci, Nancy De Santis, T4, Roper
Film and editing by: Dirt Floor Revival, Santa Fe, NM
Made possible through support from Horses for Heroes NM Inc., The Daddy Appleseed Fund, and Exit12 Dance Company.