The village took the time to introduce us "new people" to the village with a night full of great music, food, and stories full of culture.
Nanwalek stands for a place by the lagoon - formally known as the English Bay. The village people of Nanwalek refer to themselves as Sugpiaq, which means "real people." Their heritage is the basis and foundation of their language (Sugt’stun), their lifestyle, cultural traditions and self-government.
The villagers follows the Russian Orthodox church and calender. Their calender tends to be about a week or two behind the traditional calender, that we all follow.
We had the wonderful opportunity to hear from three of the elders last night, as well. They explained what they remembered before Nanwalek became what it is today: Life before technology, Hondas (ATV), internet, electricity, and running water. One of the elders explained what kind of toys they use to play with (because there were not any type off dolls) . Today there's one in every size, shape, and color. Back then, though, they would find a rock from the beach that they could hold onto and wrap it in cloth. This is what they would carry around. This would be their baby ~ so simple and so beautiful.
They went through the calender months having the children dress up to better explain their traditions. They celebrate and acknowledge our traditional American holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but their Christmas starts on January 7th. This is a huge event where they will go around to every single one of the houses and do the "Starring." They have a beautiful star that will be carried from house to house as they sing carols. As they stop at each house, the owners will put out a spread for everyone to enjoy.
They will also spend hours upon hours, days upon days, dancing, singing, and celebrating...All apart of the amazing culture and traditions. We got a little bit of a taste last night.
The dancing reminded me of the movements it takes to fish and hunt the way I am sure the ancestors did.
Their culture, stories, dancing, music, food, and traditions is truly beautiful. It was such a beautiful night and was a great introduction to this culture.
