A CHamoru cultural group, Gi Matan Guma’, is set to welcome the community this weekend at the Guam Museum. They’ll share stories from a three-week journey that connected island traditions with Indigenous communities across North America.
On Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the event will bring together artists and cultural practitioners involved in the Mali’e’ project. This gathering marks the group’s first local event since launching in 2020. It’s a chance for residents to learn about cultural exchanges in places like Maine, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland.
Dakota Camacho, the artistic director and organizer of Mali’e’, expressed gratitude for the support from various organizations. “We’ve been focused on our cultural work during COVID,” Camacho said in a recent interview, “and now it’s time to share our journey and its importance with our local community.”
Mali’e’ is inspired by a historic CHamoru art form called Kåntan Chamorrita, which involves a unique call-and-response style. It means “what has been seen” and traditionally recorded life events while strengthening community bonds.
This year, artists, dancers, and community organizers connected with CHamoru diaspora communities and Indigenous groups. A standout moment was joining the Wabanaki Confederacy on their annual canoe journey, a two-day adventure covering over 30 miles of rivers and ocean.
In Los Angeles, they engaged with CHamoru youth through the Kutturan CHamoru Foundation’s summer program. Roldy Aguero Ablao, a visual artist from Yona now residing in Seattle, highlighted the eagerness of youth to learn about their roots. “Many had never been to Guam but felt a strong connection to it,” he said.
Living far from Guam can create a thirst for cultural ties, as Ablao noted. He pointed out that travel challenges—like costs and time off work—often prevent many from visiting home.
Camacho, who grew up in Coast Salish territory, designed Mali’e’ to connect his dual heritage. “Our knowledge and traditions often get pushed aside,” he observed. “We believe our culture acts as medicine for our community.”
Gi Matan Guma’, co-founded by Camacho and the late Jeremy Cepeda, emphasizes family gathering spaces for ceremonies and discussions. This weekend’s event will feature cohort members joining via video call to share their experiences, and attendees can buy various artworks, from chant booklets to native accessories.
The organization has flourished thanks to grants and support, but the changing landscape of national arts funding presents its challenges. Still, Camacho remains hopeful. “Our community’s support is crucial, whether by attending events or buying local art,” he said.
The event will also allow attendees to explore unique offerings from local artisans, including jewelry and prints. As the group prepares to bring the Mali’e’ project to Guam in December, it highlights the strength of cultural connection—especially for those living away from home.
For more about Mali’e’ and Gi Matan Guma’, you can visit Gi Matan Guma’s website or reach out via email.
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