pomo project MISSION STATEMENT
Pomo Honoring Month emphasizes awareness of Pomo history and building bridges for future generations.
Pomo wisdom traditions hold value
for resolving contemporary challenges.
We support Pomo people
having an active voice in public policy, including development, education, culture, and vision.
Not affiliated with any specific tribal group, we value collaboration with all Pomo people toward reconciliation and understanding.
"Flickerbird" ©Sandy Eastoak 2020
our beginnings
The Sebastopol City Council resolved that each October to be Pomo Honoring Month,
celebrating the continued presence and enduring culture of the Pomo people.
Annual Pomo Honoring Month - Resolution #5793
PASSED, APPROVED & ADOPTED this 4th day of May, 2010, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Robinson, Shaffer, Kelley, Vice Mayor Wilson and Mayor Gurney
NOES: None • ABSTAIN: None • ABSENT: None
(Signed by) SARAH GLADE GURNEY, MAYOR • (Attested by) MARY GOURLEY, CITY CLERK
Recognition of Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria - Resolution #5818
On September 21, 2010, the Sebastopol City Council voted to adopt a resolution
specifically recognizing the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria as representing the
descendants of our area's original inhabitants.
read full Resolution
The Pomo Project was initiated by Armando Williams
when he visited Sebastopol Gallery and was moved by the
Native content in Sandy Eastoak’s featured work. Other Sebastopol Gallery artists soon joined in and gallery members voted to set aside their Fall, 2010 rotation to show work from
the Pomo Project. Armando would help the artists learn about Pomo culture and medicine ways, introduce them to Pomo
elders and ceremony, and trust them to create work reflecting
and honoring the Pomo way of life.
As the artists talked about the project, people in the community quickly became enthusiastic about the need to understand Pomo history and culture, and to involve Pomo people in decision making processes as we work toward sustainability, justice, and harmony. Many people expressed a desire for education and reconciliation. As our ideas became bigger than our ability to organize, we recognized the need for an annual celebration, and are grateful that the Sebastopol City Council agreed.
our coordinating team
Christine Cobaugh has been a part of the Pomo Project coordinating team since its inception in 2009. She is a long-time community activist and an artist/photographer. Christine loves creating images from nature as well as pieces that address social issues. Some of her recent work has been inspired by the beauty and energy of Pomo dancers.
www.water-spirit.net
Rose Hammock has long been a leader in the Pomo Youth Dancers and an inspiration to many students and strongly supports others on their educational and vocational paths. Rose offers California Indian history presentations at preschool and elementary schools throughout Sonoma County.
rosehammock2017@gmail.com
