The Mapuche Lafkenche nation lives at the gateway to Patagonia in southern Chile. Despite colonization, they have preserved their traditions over time—protecting their land and keeping alive their prayers and ways of honoring the spirits. They are a nation of the moon, with silver as a symbol of their water lineage—beings guided by lunar cycles. Their lives revolve around these cycles, carrying messages about the feminine, the role of women, and the balance of the human lineage.
Panchita Calfín comes from a lineage of medicine, carrying both responsibility and tradition while sharing them with profound tenderness. She is a woman of medicine and the mother of Calfín, a strong advocate for the rights of Indigenous nations.
Together, they have dedicated their lives to strengthening Indigenous organizations and communities, working so that government systems recognize intercultural health and education as a right. They have carried their deep message to universities, health centers, prisons, schools, social organizations, and Indigenous groups in the cities who, after forced displacement, seek to reconnect with and reclaim their roots.
Their message has reached a global audience, contributing to buen vivir (good living), diversity, and the fight against discrimination. They have been recognized by various institutions and organizations.
At Golden Drum, one day Panchita and Calfin received a visit in order to build solidarity–To create space for Indigenous leaders who had long been rendered invisible, women and guardians of traditional life and customs. From the highest peaks of the Andes, the depths of the Amazon, and the farthest islands of the continent, Indigenous peoples came together to represent themselves—breaking centuries of invisibility and discrimination. No one would speak for them anymore. They arrived at the United Nations in New York to speak from their own spirit, claiming their right to self-representation.
That is how we became a family. Taita Manuel had the vision, and in that embrace we recognized one another as kin. One day, Calfín arrived in Brooklyn, welcomed by Celia and her companions, who received them, found them a place to sleep, helped coordinate their message to the world, and shared meals. From that first moment, Celia became their sister in struggle and adventure. There are many stories, but one of the most memorable is when the leaders brought a chicken, not realizing the “deep vegetarian habits” of the Green Street space. The moment only strengthened our love.
Here in New York, we have welcomed them every year, standing beside them in their struggle, praying and holding ceremonies together in alliance, showing the world that when we work as brothers and sisters toward a shared purpose, nothing can stand against us. We also traveled to their territory in Chile, where we witnessed eclipses and joined ceremonies.
Today, after a long absence, they return to our home—their home—to deliver a message. This is a call for everyone to come.
It will surely be an unforgettable reunion, a time to share medicines. Bring your songs and medicines, and allow yourself to step outside of time—to surrender to the spirits and the prayer.
All are warmly invited.
Panchita & Calfín
*Suggested donation, no one turned away for lack of funds. Please contact goldendruminquiries@gmail.com for assistance.
Images from their recent trip to Namibia, Africa during the Eclipse
