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“Divided by the Land, Connected by the Ocean/ Man Apattáo gi Tano’, lao Man Chetton gi Tasi"
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Marianas Alliance for Growth of Islanders (MAGI) in collaboration with Evergreen Public Schools Mariana Pacific Islander Youth Leaders, proudly bring you an exciting cultural workshop! We’re excited to share the cultural values that are important to the Chamoru/Chamorro and Refaluwasch/Carolinian communities. These traditions honor Indigenous Peoples' rights and dynamic cultures, reflecting a way of life that continues to thrive today.
We're bringing the islands and our cultural history to the Pacific Northwest with the Marianas Festival 2024. Join us for workshops on weaving, traditional Chamorro dance, song and chant, LIGHATÚTTÚR, mwar mwars, carving, CHamoru sign language, sling throwing, cultural exhibits, and pottery making.
Important: Registration is REQUIRED. The event will be held at Heritage High School, 7825 NE 130th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98682.
Come celebrate and help preserve the rich traditions of the Chamoru/Chamorro and Refaluwasch/Carolinian communities!
Weaving
Heather Ann Franquez Garrido
Familian Clara/Ebi
Heather Ann Franquez Garrido is a young CHamoru weaver from the beautiful village of Barigåda. She began weaving at the age of 8 taught by difunta Señora Erikson. She learned to weave small items, such as a star, grasshopper, and a windmill, and from this point on, the passion was planted in her heart. With no weavers in her family, she didn’t know where or who to turn to next. Fast forward into attending college at the University of Guam, she met the love of her life and talented weaver, Koby Pua Manglona. He taught her how to weave a coconut leaf hat and introduced her to akgak, pandanus leaf weaving. Together, they have two beautiful boys, Liam and Kaynan, who they hope will continue their love of weaving into the future generation.
Her workshop will include pandanus leaf weaving. Material will be prepared prior to the session.
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-5 pm
Session 2: 6-8 pm
Cost: Free
Ages: 12 and up
Traditional Chamorro Dance, Song, and Chant
Fafa’na’gue, Saina Eric Joel Reyes
Fafa’na’gue, Saina Rosemary Mantanona
Saina Joel Larimer.
SOLD OUT
Join us for a unique workshop featuring distinguished figures in CHamoru Dance.
Certified CHamoru Traditional Arts Instructors:
Fafa’na’gue, Saina Eric Joel Reyes and Fafa’na’gue, Saina Rosemary Mantanona and Saina Joel Larimer.
Our instructors began their cultural journeys studying CHamoru dance, songs, chants, and weaving under the Master of CHamoru Dance, Frank Rabon, as members of Taotao Tano'.
With over three decades of experience, Saina Eric Reyes, a renowned "Fafa’na’gue," founded Guma Taotao Taga and has been instrumental in uniting over 300 CHamoru practitioners into “Guma’ San Lagu.” His expertise spans CHamoru song, dance, and chant, and he has showcased his talents globally at prominent events and through viral media successes.
With over three decades of experience as well, Saina Rosemary Mantanona, also a certified "Fafa’na’gue," has dedicated her career to preserving CHamoru traditions through Guma Imahen Taotao Tano' in San Diego. Her extensive work includes cultural performances, educational outreach, and community mentorship, enriching the cultural landscape with her knowledge in dance, songs, chants, and weaving.
Saina Joel Larimer has been teaching Bailan Chamorro and other aspects of Chamorro culture since 1996 and has been a student of the Chamorro culture all of his life. He founded Guma' Imahe in 2012 and he spends his life teaching and sharing the CHamoru culture through dance, chant, song, and language. This includes bringing in other instructors from different disciplines of CHamoru arts to share their expertise, working with other cultural organizations, and community service. For the love and preservation of our CHamoru heritage and islands, Saina Joel teaches so that our people remember our history and join the CHamoru way of celebrating life.
At this workshop, attendees will have the exceptional opportunity to learn directly from these seasoned CHamoru Arts Instructors, gaining invaluable insights and hands-on experience in preserving and celebrating CHamoru heritage. Don’t miss this chance to be taught by experts whose dedication and passion continue to inspire and elevate CHamoru culture.
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-5 pm
Ages: All Ages
Cost: Free
Each attendee must complete the release form prior to attending the workshop. Kindly email your completed forms to info@marianasfestival.com.
Group Talent Release Form
Adult Talent Release Form
Minor Talent Release Form
Lighatúttúr
Serene Seng
Discover the Rich Tradition of Refaluwasch Cultural Jewelry!
Join us for a captivating workshop where we delve into the profound significance of the LIGHATÚTTÚR, the iconic necklace of Refaluwasch cultural jewelry. This ornamental masterpiece isn't just an accessory; it embodies our identity and cultural heritage, treasured and diligently crafted and passed down through generations.
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Key Highlights:
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Explore the history and cultural significance of the LIGHATÚTTÚR.
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Learn about the intricate weaving techniques used to create these cherished beads.
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Understand how each necklace symbolizes ethnic identity and tradition.
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Discover when and why these necklaces are worn during special occasions, from festive celebrations to solemn rituals.
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Gain insights into the spiritual and symbolic meanings behind the LIGHATÚTTÚR in Refaluwasch culture.
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For the Refaluwasch community, owning and wearing a LIGHATÚTTÚR is not just about adornment; it's a profound connection to our roots, reminding us of our heritage and the values we hold dear. Its cultural value far surpasses any monetary measure and is gifted with great significance in various ceremonial contexts.
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-5 pm
Ages: 10 and up
Cost: Free
Mwaar
Serene Seng
SOLD OUT
Discover the artistry and cultural significance of Mwaar, the exquisite flower crowns that have enriched island culture. These floral masterpieces, inherited from Carolinian traditions, are not just accessories—they are symbols of celebration and pride.
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What You'll Experience:
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Learn the history and cultural meaning behind Mwaar.
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Hands-on guidance to create your own flower crown.
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Explore the types of flowers and weaving techniques used.
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Understand when and how Mwaar are traditionally worn during special occasions.
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Mwaar can adorn any moment with their vibrant beauty, but they hold particular significance during festive celebrations and important events. They embody the essence of Refaluwasch heritage and are cherished for their cultural depth and aesthetic charm.
August 23, 2024
Session 2: 6-8 pm
Ages: 10 and up
Cost: Free
Traditional Chamorro Carving
SOLD OUT
Angela Paet
Join us for a special FREE workshop on traditional Chamorro carving with Angela Paet, an experienced artisan
continuing her family’s legacy in carving bone, horn, hima, and other natural materials. Angela’s father, a carver of
over 15 years experience, passed down this cherished craft, making her a dedicated advocate for preserving
Chamorro cultural traditions.
● Workshop Topics:
○ Carving Basics
○ Basic Shapes in Chamorro Jewelry and Culture
○ Storytelling through Carving
● Everything you need to carve will be provided. If you have a current carving project or your own carving
tools, feel free to bring them along! Angela will provide guidance and tips to help you progress.
● For children interested in exploring their creativity, there will be a special kids table where they can cut
shapes and create their own Chamorro jewelry using paper and string. (All children must be supervised;
please do not leave them unattended).
● We're looking forward to this workshop! Please dress appropriately for outdoor work, as we'll be handling
materials that create dust.
Whether you’re eager to participate hands-on or prefer to observe and learn, all are welcome to join us in exploring
the artistry and significance of Chamorro carving. This workshop not only aims to educate but also to foster a deeper
connection to our rich Chamorro heritage.
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-4 pm
Session 2: 6-8 pm
Ages: All Ages
Cost: Free
Each attendee must complete the release form prior to attending the workshop.
Kindly email your completed forms to info@marianasfestival.com
SOLD OUT
CHamoru Sign Language
Margaret Cayton, Enrique Mesgnon, Jeanette Meno, Doreen Flores
This interactive experience is an opportunity to discover the beauty of CHamoru Sign Language.
CHamoru Sign Language is not just a language; it's a bridge that connects communities and celebrates diversity. Whether you're a beginner or have some signing experience, our booth welcomes everyone to learn and engage.
Explore:
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Basic Gestures: Start with essential signs and learn how to introduce yourself in CHamoru Sign Language.
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Cultural Insights: Discover the history and significance of CHamoru Sign Language within Chamorro culture.
Meet our knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their language and culture with you. They're here to answer your questions and help you master CSL in an enjoyable and interactive environment.
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-5 pm
Ages: All Ages
Cost: Free
Click here to purchase your copies now
Sling Throwing
Acho’ Atupat
Koby Garrido
Koby Garrido from Malojloj, Inarajan, will share with you the knowledge and history of the "Åcho atupat" (Chamoru sling & stone).
In this workshop, you will experience how to throw the sling & stone, and weaving techniques to make your very own sling shot
This workshop is a unique opportunity to connect with Chamoru heritage through practical skills and stories passed down through generations. Whether you're intrigued by history, fascinated by craftsmanship, or simply eager for a memorable experience, all are welcome to participate.
Did you know? The average throw ranges from 60-90 yards, with some skilled individuals slinging distances up to 170-200 yards!
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-5 pm
Session 2: 6-8 pm
Ages: All Ages
Cost: Free
SOLD OUT
Cultural Exhibit
Noel B. Quitugua
This exhibit invites everyone to pause and step back in time to the era before colonialism. It will showcase our ancestors' material culture, featuring actual artifacts, replicated utilitarian household objects, fishing implements, tools, weapons, and many more tangible items. Additionally, the exhibit will include written accounts, illustrations, and photographs from the colonial periods, as well as reconstructed items by cultural practitioner and experimental archaeologist Noel Quitugua (Manggaffa (Familian) Achi’ak/Gecko Clan). Noel Quitugua is a Chamorro cultural researcher, Chamorro language interpreter/translator, visual artist, master artisan, public speaker/lecturer, former educator, and former curator at the Northern Mariana Islands Museum of Culture and History.
Seeing, touching, and experiencing actual objects are just as vital as music and dance in practicing, promoting, protecting, and perpetuating our cultural heritage and identity for future generations. The exhibit will feature two hands-on cultural activities: using a kamyu (coconut grater) along with learning indigenous terminologies associated with coconut grating, and playing chongka, a traditional wooden log game where participants will learn how the game is played. Other hands-on cultural activities will include wood carving using a metal adz, the game of batu, spear throwing, and many more.
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-5 pm
Ages: 6 and up
Cost: Free
SOLD OUT
Pottery
Noel B. Quitugua
This workshop aims to revive the ancient ways of crafting an assortment of household pottery containers, a tradition historically overseen by Chamorro women.
Participants will learn how to create their own pottery, starting with miniature objects such as pendants, small figurines, and other items. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with our cultural heritage and develop new skills in a hands-on environment.
Join Saina Noel Quitugua for the traditional art of pottery making and create something beautiful and meaningful.
August 23, 2024
Session 2: 6-8 pm
Ages: 12 and up
Cost: Free
Dollar Bills dont Last Like Latte Stones
Moñeka De Oro
This workshop offers an exploration of the unique and iconic Latte Stones, a significant cultural symbol of the Chamorro people. These two-piece stone pillars, known as Latte, are intricately connected to Chamorro heritage, symbolizing strength, foundation, and a deep connection to ancestors. The session will delve into their historical and cultural importance, highlighting their role in traditional Chamorro society and their enduring impact as symbols of resilience and identity.
The presentation will provide insights into the Latte Period, revealing aspects of the Chamorro people's way of life, such as the carving and quarrying of latte stones and the construction of structures atop them. It will also discuss the effects of centuries of colonial occupation and violence on these important symbols.
Furthermore, the workshop will examine the modern use of Latte Stones as a cultural icon, illustrating how they continue to represent the strength and resilience of the Chamorro community globally. Given contemporary challenges like climate change and hyper-militarization, the presentation will consider ways for the diaspora to connect with and safeguard the Chamorro homelands and sacred traditions.
This session promises to be an insightful and thought-provoking examination of the lasting legacy of Latte Stones in Chamorro culture.
August 23, 2024
Session 1: 2-4 pm
Ages: All Ages
Cost: Free
Dinner
Dinner hour is from 5-6 PM, featuring live music from Candyman.
Dinner boxes are available for $10.00, which include:
Full hoagie sandwich (smoked turkey)
Individual condiment packet (Dijon Mustard and Mayonnaise)
Dinner salad (Italian dressing)
Seedless grapes
Baby carrots with portioned ranch dressing
Cookies
Cold bottled water
Dinner napkins and a dinner fork will be provided.
If you require a special meal, there is an option for a full summer salad instead of a hoagie sandwich. The summer salad includes:
Baby spinach
Micro greens
Fresh sliced strawberries
Mandarin orange
Walnuts (portioned cup)
Raspberry vinaigrette