By Bekah Houff<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One: <\/strong>We come from many places and people. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Two: <\/strong>Bringing our light to this place in the Rocky Mountains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One:<\/strong> (show picture 1) Long before Rocky Mountain National Park became a popular destination for hiking, camping, and exploring nature, this land belonged to Indigenous tribes who called the mountains and valleys their home. Places like Estes Park, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, were part of their everyday lives. Understanding their story helps us appreciate the deep connection between people and this land.\u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n Two:<\/strong> (show chief Ute picture) The Ute Indian Tribe is considered the oldest continuous group living in Colorado. For thousands of years, the Ute moved with the seasons\u2014spending warm months in the high mountain valleys of the Rockies and the cold months in the lower plains. The mountains provided everything they needed: food, shelter, water, and spiritual meaning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One:<\/strong> (show picture 2) Other tribes like the Arapaho, Cheyenne, Comanche, and Kiowa also traveled this land. Trails through Estes Park and the national park were routes for hunting and gathering, connecting people to the land\u2019s rich resources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Two: <\/strong>(show picture 3) The National Park Service now works closely with tribal governments to ensure that Native voices are included in decisions about the park. This collaboration protects sacred sites, preserves cultural stories, and celebrates Indigenous heritage. Rocky Mountain National Park hosts events featuring Native songs, dances, and storytelling that share the rich culture of the tribes connected to this land. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One:<\/strong> Thank you to Margolee Pemberton<\/a> for her work writing this history of the land and its people. As we worship, learn, and play together in this place and on this land, may we remember its rich heritage, celebrate those who lived here first, and atone for our part in the displacement of the indigenous people of this and all native land. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Two: <\/strong>However you have arrived, you are welcome here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One: <\/strong>Our God who is God of the universe, this place, and your heart, welcomes your light. <\/p>\n\n\n\n ALL: <\/strong>We come, joining with all of the lights in this room who have come together for this one special time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n History provided by Margolee Pemberton (https:\/\/www.visitestespark.com\/blog\/post\/the-indigenous-tribes-to-rocky-mountain-national-park\/<\/a> ) <\/p>\n\n\n\n Photos used from: <\/p>\n\n\n\n