Religious and Cultural Significance

“Rev Janelle Bruce along with other faith leaders in the Poor People’s Campaign came to pray blessings of protection over Wendsler Nosie, Sr. and Oak Flat at this critical period in the struggle to heal Mother Earth and all the hurt that this nations first chapter has inflicted not only on the Apache and Oak Flat, but on us all and all creation,” wrote the Saving OAK FLAT, Arizona Facebook page (Photo: Steve Pavey ).

Chi’chił Biłdagoteel, known in English as Oak Flat, is sacred land for the San Carlos Apache people and at least ten other neighboring nations.¹ “The Oak Flat area and everything in it belongs to powerful Diyin, or Holy Beings, and is the home of a particular kind of Gaan, which are mighty Mountain Spirits and Holy Beings on whom we Apaches depend for our well-being” said Terry Rambler, Chairman of the San Carlos Apache Tribe.²

The San Carlos Apache often travel to Chi’chił Biłdagoteel to hold Na’ii’es, the Sunrise Dance, a coming of age ceremony for girls. The ceremony is a four-day-long community event.³The girl who is transitioning is dressed ceremonially by her godmother and a medicine man and will dance for over six hours in traditional buckskin. The community contributes special songs and specific dances and is fed by the family. During this time the girl is attuned with the Creator and blessed those who are sick. The natural springs and the edible and medicinal plants found in the area also have a sacred function in the ceremony.