Kumeyaay Ethnobotany
New Book Release: Kumeyaay Ethnobotany
“For thousands of years, the Kumeyaay people of northern Baja California and southern California made their homes in the diverse landscapes of the region, interacting with native plants and continuously refining their botanical knowledge. Today, many Kumeyaay Indians in the far-flung reaches of Baja California carry on the traditional knowledge and skills transforming native plants into food, medicine, arts, tools, regalia, construction materials, and ceremonial items. Kumeyaay Ethnobotany explores the remarkable interdependence between native peoples and native plants of the Californias through in-depth descriptions of 47 native plants and their uses, lively narratives, and hundreds of vivid photographs. It connects the archaeological and historical record with living cultures and native plant specialists who share their ever-relevant wisdom for future generations.” - - Sunbelt Publications, Inc.
Endorsements:
“Kumeyaay Ethnobotany provides an enduring work that is a gift of history,” says Former Chairman of the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, Anthony Pico. “Future Kumeyaay generations will look back and know this scientific contribution was very instrumental on our journey toward cultural revitalization. We Kumeyaay are most grateful to Michael Wilken-Robertson’s lifetime work.”
“It is the right time to do this kind of work; the elders are passing and it is so important for Kumeyaay people to have this information. The book contributes to preserving our culture by documenting traditional lifeways that are centuries old, yet still vibrant.” - - Larry Banegas, Founder Kumeyaay.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michael Wilken-Robertson
Anthropologist Michael Wilken-Robertson’s research and advocacy work with Native Baja Californians has explored traditional arts, ethnobotany, history, languages, and cultural landscapes of these indigenous peoples. He has developed lifelong collaborative relationships with native artists and traditional authorities to foster cultural revitalization and sustainable community development. Wilken-Robertson currently teaches in the anthropology department at California State University, San Marcos.
Lectures and Book Signings:
CSU San Marcos
Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. Room 111
<click here> for registration details
ABDNHA Desert Lecture Series
November 24, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center
<click here> for registration details
Autry Museum of the American West
Saturday, December 9, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. The Autry in Griffith Park
<click here> for registration details
Author: Michael Wilken-Robertson, Anthropologist
Photographer: Deborah Small
ISBN 978-1-941384-30-5
http://sunbeltpublications.com/shop/kumeyaay-ethnobotany/