Yuria Celidwen: Visions of Hope. Intergenerational Wisdom for a Flourishing Planet

In this episode of “Into The Magic Shop,” Dr. Jim Doty welcomes Dr. Yuria Celidwen, an Indigenous and climate activist of Nahua and Maya descent, born into a family of mystics, healers, poets, and explorers from the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. Together, Dr. Celidwen and Dr. Doty delve into a discussion about the impact of European colonialism and Western capitalism on Indigenous Peoples and the environment. They emphasize the need to honor and preserve Indigenous languages and cultures, recognizing the immense cultural and biodiversity loss caused by historical and ongoing injustices. They also explore the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in terms of land rights and education and shed light on the systemic changes required to rectify these injustices and advocate for the return of lands to Indigenous stewards. Dr. Celidwen speaks about the importance of Intergenerational wisdom and the value of community involvement. The conversation also dives into the topics of cultural appropriation and the commodification and ethical implications of Indigenous traditions, such as the use of Spirit medicines or psychedelics for Westerners. Overall, this episode of “Into The Magic Shop” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring Indigenous cultures in our collected quest to address environmental concerns and work towards a more just and sustainable future.