From left, Cahuilla bird singer Ernie Morreo of Torres-Martinez
Reservation, and Morongo Bird Singers Walter Holmes Jr., his son Champ,
and Damon Leivas sing at the Learning Center's 2005 Dragonfly Gala.
Photo by Douglas Park
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Southern
California is the place that sets the pace. Hollywood, trends, technologies
— Southern California spawns all that's new.
Some might be surprised to learn that Southern California also is home
to ancient civilizations older than time. These are the First Cultures
of American Indian people.
While some regions may boast one Native American nation, Southern California
hosts the Cahuilla, Chemehuevi, Chumash, Cupeño, Gabrielino (Tongva),
Juaneño (Acjachemen), Kitanemuk, Kumeyaay (Diegueño), Luiseño,
Mohave, Serrano, and Vanyume people. Each culture has its own distinct
identity, language, and rich traditions.
Long ago, everyone knew that world. But now it has become fragmented and
even forgotten. Many groups and individuals are working to save these
endangered cultures. After all, Southern California is part of our national
heritage — everyone's story. The Learning Center Online shares that
story with you.
Over time, we will be adding more and more, so please come back to learn
what's new.
How to reach
us:
<info@dorothyramon.org>
Dorothy Ramon Learning Center
P.O. Box 1510
Banning, CA 92220 USA
