Abstract
This study explores the author’s experience of integrating traditional Indigenous practices with a Western model of leading a conflict-resolution retreat. It reports how, by joining a Nawat Pipil language revitalization program, I (a Latinx, U.S.-born woman) was able to re/claim language, identity, and communication with my ancestors thanks to Nahnantzin (female Pipil elders) and nukumpas (colleagues). This re/claiming led to connection with Pipil women who asked for my help resolving conflict amongst their tribe (of various generations of Pipil women). This discussion explores strategies for new and/or “outsider” participant-observers to utilize when providing services to oppressed populations with different customs, worldviews, and perspectives than “leadership” possesses. It also considers the importance of acknowledging intragroup as well as intergroup differences. Moreover, I discuss the transformative practices rooted in Pipil culture (i.e., healing sessions, prayer, Mayan cosmovision, and community interaction) and non-Native practices (e.g., Western style leadership, communication and conflict-resolution practices) that allowed me to address the root causes of the Pipil women’s stressors and healing. This discussion servea as a reminder of the resilience many communities, organizations, and groups we “lead” and encourage collaboration and guidance as opposed to traditional forms of Western leadership.
Presenters
Tanya ErazoCEO, Liberate Psychological & Consultation Services, Inc., California, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Multinational Aid, Indigenous Communities, Pipil Tribe, Collaborative Female Leadership, Intergenerational
