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Advocating for Preservation of First Voices Since 1979

The Flint Hills Wisdom Keepers

The Flint Hills Wisdom Keepers is an organization dedicated to preserving, advocating, and giving a platform to Native Communities.

 

We believe that learning from the Native Elders, Presenters, and Tribal community leaders is crucial to understanding and respecting the past, present, and future of the Native Nations. We are committed to providing an open and welcoming space for all who want to learn from these incredible individuals.

About

Navajo Basket Weaver Elder with Turquoise Jewelry
Flint Hills Wisdom Keepers Native American Shamanism Medicine Women Retreat Gathering Pow

Welcome to Flint Hills Wisdom Keepers, where our mission is to promote cultural awareness, understanding and appreciation of Native communities while uplifting Native Elder wisdom. We offer educational services to the widest range of socioeconomic demographics and cultural backgrounds. Our organization aspires to create an environment where all people feel valued, respected and empowered to live to their fullest potential.


Our Philosophy
 

The stories and experiences shared during our weekend events can be transformational.  Our Elders and Presenters come from a variety of backgrounds and bring with them a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that has been passed down through generations. Through their teachings, we hope to educate and inspire others to live in harmony with one another as well as Mother Earth, to appreciate the beauty of the world around us, and to learn how to express gratitude in their own unique way.

Native Culture

Elder with Traditional Navajo Weaving

Flint Hills Wisdom Keepers is a program designed to connect people with the wisdom of Native cultures and traditions. Through our program, participants will engage with Elders and Presenters who will share their knowledge and experiences. Our goal is for participants to gain a better understanding of how Native cultures functioned before contact with Europeans, and how these cultures are preserving languages and traditions while adapting to modern challenges. We believe that this knowledge can inspire personal growth and create a more inclusive and accepting society.

Diametric Opposition

Next Gathering

April 26-28, 2024

About The Elders & Presenters

Rupert, Flying Eagle, comes from a long line of traditional medicine people.  He grew up knowing his first language and his tribe's traditional ways.  He has led revitalization in the tribal schools through their non-profit organization, "Children First--A'al We Pek". His work includes teaching tribal language and culture and providing counseling on alcohol and drug prevention.

Rupert Encinas,
Tohono O'odham
Rupert Encinas Native American Medicine Man Tohono O'odham Native American Church

Della has participated in the Lakota Way ceremonies as a Sundancer and pipe carrier for more than 30 years. Southern Ute Grandmother Bertha Grove, Red Earth Woman,  designated Della to pass on her teachings, especially teachings about the water, the Giver of Life.

Della continues to teach about the Feminine Principle in harmony with the Masculine. 

Della Romero,
Ute/Tewa Pueblo
Della Romero, Ute Tewa Pueblo Medicine Woman Native American Woman Flint Hills Wisdom Keepers Annual Gathering

Since graduating from San Juan University, with degrees in botany and geology, he has spent over thirty years collecting and cataloging plants in the Carrizo Mountains.  His Navajo heritage is his most important tool.  'I'm thinking about these plants as Holy Plant People and being reverent about my science.  When you think of them that way, they reveal themselves to you.'"

Arnold Clifford,
Dineh [Navajo]
Arnold Clifford Navajo Botanist and Native American Educator

Eugene B. Joe is an award-winning, master Artist. As a  Historian and Author, he conducts lectures, presentations, and educational seminars on Navajo culture for various projects such as the Dahayoigii and Dineh Youth of Shiprock, NM. 

His ability to bring life to the traditions of his people as an Artist  is universally appreciated, and is a true reflection of his identity.

Eugene B. Joe,
Dineh [Navajo] /Pueblo
Eugene B. Joe Navajo Sand Painter Artist