Individuals concerned in agriculture and their households are invited to a brand new farmer-focused neighborhood gathering and workshop sequence, “Hotnu Heals,” hosted by the Farmer Focus program of the University of Guam Land Grant Extension Service from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, June 7 on the Valley of the Latte Adventure Park in Talo’fo’fo’.
Subsequent occasions will comply with on the identical time and site on June 14, July 12 and July 26.
The occasion goals to assist native producers and meals programs by making a welcoming area for dialog, cultural therapeutic, and neighborhood connection whereas sharing a meal of domestically produced, historically ready meals, UOG stated in a launch.
Hotnu Heals is modeled after a program referred to as Pizza4Producers developed by Washington State University Extension in partnership with the Western Region Agricultural Stress Assistance Program. The program serves as a mannequin for constructing neighborhood and decreasing stigma surrounding psychological well being in agriculture. By fostering a supportive setting and inspiring dialog, Hotnu Heals joins Pizza4Producers in working to interrupt the cycle of stress and isolation prevalent within the agricultural sector.
The identify “Hotnu Heals” relies on the traditional CHamoru oven referred to as a hotnu and symbolizes therapeutic of the thoughts, because it was historically used to carry communities collectively by cooking. The identify displays a deep cultural significance grounded within the traditions, values, and id of the Mariana Islands and the CHamoru individuals, UOG stated.
“The goal of Hotnu Heals is to create a safe and meaningful space where our farmers and community members can come together, share stories, share challenges, and support one another while connecting through local food and culture,” stated Kuan-Ju Chen, an agricultural economist with UOG Land Grant and challenge director of UOG Farmer Focus.
Each occasion will embody an indication of hotnu preparation and cooking methods by Tony Mantanoña, cultural officer on the Valley of the Latte Adventure Park, and the group from the Sagan Kotturan CHamoru Cultural Center. Attendees will then participate in getting ready and sharing a meal utilizing the hotnu whereas participating in a guided dialogue on neighborhood care and resilience and the challenges farmers are going through.
“At the Valley of the Latte, we believe in reconnecting people with the land, culture, and each other,” Mantanoña stated.
Valley of the Latte Director David Tydingco added, “Our hope is that this program brings farmers together in a way that strengthens both their community and connection to culture. Through food, storytelling, and shared experiences, we can create spaces for healing and connection.”
The Hotnu Heals occasions are free for farmers and their households to attend however do require pre-registration.
Those can register at https://url.uog.edu/hotnu-heals.
For extra info, contact Devin Santos at santosd15571@triton.uog.edu.