Heartful Rootz

Xochiquetzal, our Mesoamerican Indigenous Two-Spirit Calpulli, is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for our community in King, Kitsap and Pierce counties, Washington. This initiative is vital for reclaiming our cultural knowledge and access to ceremonial tools, fostering healing through shared traditions like drumming, herbalism, and crafting. By supporting us, you help cultivate a nurturing environment where all individuals, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community, can engage in meaningful cultural practices. Join us in honoring our heritage and restoring the sacred connections that enrich our lives and community. Our goal is to establish a space that provides accessible opportunities for our (intimate small closed group) Mesoamerican Indigenous peoples seeking a community environment in King and Pierce counties, Washington State. We aim to create a welcoming space where our relatives can engage in drumming, Curandero work, playing the teponaztli, crafting regalia, cooking and sharing cultural and nutritious food, pottery-making, participating in song and dance, practicing herbalism and ethnobotany, and feeling respected and centered in our sacred bodies. Our focus is on inclusivity and making these experiences accessible to individuals of all skill levels. Ceremony is an integral part of our daily practice, and we seek to enhance our access to medicinal tools to reclaim and cultivate intimate community gatherings. We have recognized the necessity for forming a safe and inclusive space, particularly for the Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, Queer,Two-Spirit, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic community. Given our past experiences, cis and straight micro-aggressions, we are committed to creating an environment that upholds the values of respect, understanding, and support for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. Additionally, we are committed to acknowledging and honoring the land on which our ceremonies take place, emphasizing gratitude and respect for the restorative spaces that facilitate our gatherings. Xochiquetzal is a significant deity in Mexica and Nahua mythology, associated with fertility, beauty, love, and arts. In Mexica mythology, Xochiquetzal is often depicted as a beautiful and youthful goddess, reflecting her association with youth and attractiveness. She is symbolically linked to flowers, particularly the marigold, and is sometimes portrayed adorned with flowers or holding them in her hands. Xochiquetzal is a complex figure with both gender roles represented within her mythology. In Mexica belief, she is revered as a dual-natured deity embodying both feminine and masculine aspects. This duality highlights her connection to the concept of duality and balance, which is a fundamental principle in Mexica cosmology.

In a world where many children can name more celebrities than plants, our "Plant Family" app, game, book, and video series aim to bridge this gap. Understanding plants is crucial for our self-care and health, enabling us to listen to our bodies and adopt holistic practices rather than relying on a flawed healthcare system. "Plant Family" App features that will connect person to land, land to person, and throughout to community with wellness being what is returned. Goals of food and medicine being shared abundantly and surrounding all our neighborhoods, schools, public parks, etc. Forming community built restaurants with community grown goods. A space to pick your own food and learn what your individual body needs. Based on location and distance of choice. Everyone will be able to upload educational information. Trading with your neighbors, recipe shares. Hiring local help, forming work-parties Partnerships for selling goods. Collective Calendar based on location with collective activities, needs, classes, events, plant shares, emergencies, etc Private and invite only Cultural shares Schools and public parks sharing space for community gardens "Plant Family" Game main feature is to have fun learning, practice and earn rewards like free seeds! Connect and trade things with neighbors and other friends virtually. Learning companion planning, what do they need and how they help you in return. Through the transformative power of song and art, "Plant Family Books" shares with community to forge enduring memories within our bodies, fortifying our bond with the plants that sustain us. The simple jingle tunes aim to create playful and memorable education, engaging everyone from kids to elders, fostering greater respect for the plants that support our well-being. The entire family can sing together, infusing care and gratitude into their daily nutrition, all while preparing meals in unity. "Plant Family" Video series will be for easy to learn, educational songs to share. Learn about tending the land, honoring the plants and relating as nature. Can be formed as animated educational shows. Represented by many cultures, showing how they connect to the specific plant. Our startup is community-created and funded, focusing on direct support for indigenous artists, developers, and ecologists. Our long-term vision is to ensure accessible education for everyone, available through a small monthly membership or free access. All educators and developers will be compensated through our app, fostering a sustainable ecosystem that empowers local talent and promotes cultural heritage. Your support in this fundraiser will help us achieve these goals and make a meaningful impact in our community.