S.P.I.R.I.T. in communication and cooperation with the family of Phillip Deere, is asking for support and assistance with travel, lodging and transportation for esteemed guests and important elders to the 40th Anniversary International Indian Treaty Council Conference; to be held Wednesday September 10 to Friday September 12, 2014; at the Phillip Deere Family Land, Okemah, Oklahoma.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
Financial Donations for travel and lodging for esteemed guests and important elders in Indian Country to attend the Conference; by paypal to spiritwomenrawk@yahoo.com or mail to Deere Family, P.O. Box 741, Okmulgee, Oklahoma 74447; and/or
Be a host! Please contact us if you can host guests in your home in the local Okemah area.
IITC Event Page: www.facebook.com/events/422607754528737
Phillip Deere Memorial Page: www.facebook.com/phillip.deere.9
Contacts: bdeere2000@yahoo.com or spiritwomenrawk@yahoo.com
Honoring Phillip Deere - Muscogee (Creek) 1929 - 1985
Phillip Deere was a traditional Muscogee (Creek) healer from Nuyaka Grounds, Okemah, Oklahoma, who became a spiritual leader, civil and human rights activist, oral historian and storyteller. Phillip was a founder of the Traditional Youths and Elders Circle and a spiritual guide for the American Indian Movement (AIM). He was an elder and statesman for the International Indian Treaty Council (IITC), and participated in the United Nations International Human Rights Commission held in Geneva, Switzerland. He spoke about remembering traditional values, Muscogee prophecies, care for Mother Earth, and brought attention to injustices suffered by indigenous peoples of the Americas. In the 1960's,
Phillip encouraged Muscogee youths to retain their culture while getting their education. He felt it was important to keep the songs and ceremonies strong, and this can only be done through learning the native language, Mvskoke. Phillip's knowledge of his oral traditions was unique and extensive, and sadly, so much was lost when he passed on. We will remember Phillip for his teachings and acceptance of all people, and for his dedication to helping youths find a path to walk.
His children are: Mancie Deere Dawson, Chumona “Hokte” Deere, Sam “Bonnie” Deere, Phillip "Parnoskey" Deere, Nova Deere Wise, Lesah Deere-Yargee, Ahse Deere, Faulina Deere, and Manahwee Deere.
“"No more are we going to stand around ... This is not the end of The Longest Walk!" “The Longest Walk is not over. We all have our Longest Walk. We all have our history of relocation and forced removals.”" --Phillip Deere