TOCA works to revitalize the cultural traditions of the Tohono O'odham - the O'odham Himdag. Keeping these traditions vital and alive is an essential part of cultural survival. All of TOCA's work is based in Tohono O'odham culture. However, TOCA always seeks specific ways of supporting cultural revitalization. In recent years, these activities have included:

1. •Rain Ceremony Revitalization               • Culture & Leadership Camp for Youth        • Basketry Classes    
   

• Summer Cultural Arts Program              • Basketweavers Blessing Ceremony           • Traditional Games

1. •Traditional Singing and Dance Group    • Winter Storytelling Events                          • Cooking Classes
   

   Because many forms of cultural expression (storytelling, songs, language, traditional artforms, ceremonies, etc.) grow out of a community’s material foundation, TOCA’s Arts and Culture Program is uniquely situated to contribute to the revitalization of Tohono O’odham culture.  By connecting our efforts to rejuvenate cultural practices to the material reality out of which they originally emerged (such as farming), we are able to provide a stronger foundation for cultural survival.  For example, one woman who participates in all four of TOCA’ programs recently said: “Every year, I sang the songs that called down the summer rains.  But this year, I had a garden filled with devil’s claw and corn, melons and squash.  This year, I sang for them.  This year, I sang like I really meant it.”

  TOCA strives to augment its other programs with activities such as summer and after school arts and culture programs, artist residencies in villages, storytelling events and oral history projects provide youth in particular with many opportunities to develop cultural pride and to express themselves creatively. Teaching culture is an effective way of helping youth resist the local pressures to join gangs.  Additionally, it helps preserve and rejuvenate Tohono O’odham cultural traditions that are in danger of being permanently lost, traditions necessary to developing effective and sustainable community institutions.

Arts & Cultural Revitalization happens in many ways.

Read more about TOCA’s integrated program areas:

               Food System & Wellness Initiative    More Info

               Basketry                                             More info

               Youth & Elder Programs                    More info

               Arts & Cultural Revitalization             More info

TOCA’s work has been recognized by major foundations:

Find out about Grants, Awards, & Recognitions of our work.

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