Balance-Unbalance 2015

We are deeply honored to be able to share with you Onk- Akimel O'odham songs and dances as a welcome to O'odham land and to the theme of the conference.

Bird Singing and Dancing by the River

Bird Singing and Dancing by the River is a youth dance group of children and singers from the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Known for its showcase of Chiyer (bird) singing and dancing of the Xalychidom Piipaash, the group also performs Onk- Akimel O'odham songs and dances. The group has performed for 10 years, and has traveled to the related tribes of Xalychidom Piipaash to include tribes in Southern California, along the Colorado River and New Mexico.

Annette Ramirez and Lynwood Vest formed the group to teach youth traditional songs and dances of the Odham and Piipaash to help preserve these songs and dances. As Lynwood Vest explained, "It is our responsibility to teach these things to our youth so they in turn can teach their own children"