a Spiritual Gathering in association with
The Spiritual Unity of Tribes

History and Purpose

Many years ago, Black Elk had a vision, a vision of peace and unity among all peoples. Though years have passed, Black Elk's vision has been pondered and cherished by many, knowing that at some time, the vision would be fulfilled. Sitting Bull also spoke of the time when there would be a gathering of the tribes. People continue to ponder these prophecies of the great leaders and to consult with the Elders regarding when and how these prophecies would be fulfilled. Many believe that time is now.

For thousands of years Elders, Grandmothers, Medicine men and women on many islands of our planet have known that someday all races would be reunited and would bring healing to our Mother Earth. Indigenous peoples who have retained a spiritual way of life would teach their brothers and sisters all over the planet how to renew these ways and live in humility, having respect for all and a sense of oneness with each other and their Creator.

In 1988, the Elders were consulted regarding the many prophecies and the time of their fulfillment. It was believed that only the Medicine people and the Elders would gather together to consult, and then teach and lead others. But the Elders were filled with urgency. They felt there wasn't much time remaining, that there had to be Gatherings now. Understanding must be given to all mankind, and as many as possible must be included. The Elders said things must be done "in a good way" so that the prophecies could be fulfilled as they had been revealed. The guidance of the Elders was followed and the first Spiritual Unity of the Tribes Gathering was held in Saskatchewan, Canada in 1989. It was called for by Grandmother Iron Eagle from the Cree Nation. The second Gathering was also held in Saskatchewan in 1990. In 1991, Grandfather Ernest Mirabal of Nambe Pueblo in New Mexico hosted the third Gathering. This was the first Spiritual Unity Gathering held in the United States. The fourth Gathering was held in the Heart of Turtle Island, the Black Hills, in 1992. The Spiritual Unity Gatherings in the Black Hills are called the "Gathering of Eagles." A Dakota Elder told his people of this Gathering more than thirty years earlier. In 1993 Spiritual Unity Gatherings were held in Mexican Springs, New Mexico and also in Tanacross, Alaska. In 1994 a Gathering was sponsored by the Lummi Tribe in Washington State.

The Gathering of Eagles was held in the Black Hills of South Dakota, the traditional territory of the Lakota Nation in 1992, and 1995 through 2000. In 1995 through 1997 the Gatherings were hosted by Vernon and Emalee Schmidt, near Custer, South Dakota. In 1998 through 2000 the Gatherings were held at Borderlands Retreat Center, on the Pesla, the Heart of the Heart of Turtle Island. Ben Rhodd was instrumental in bringing the Spiritual Unity Gathering to the Black Hills in 1992 and has continued his involvement throughout the period.

The 2001 All Nations Healing of the Twelve Feather Gathering was hosted by the Bear Clan Family of the Navajo Nation near Gallup, New Mexico. The Gatherings returned to the Black Hills for 2002 through 2005. They were held at Canyon Calm, near Custer, South Dakota, and hosted by Garry and Mary Kate Stanker. In 2006 and 2007 the SUT/Gathering of Eagles was sponsored by the Dine’ family of Grandmother Helen Tahe. It was held in her memory on her ancestral grounds in the Chuska Mountains near Mexican Springs, New Mexico.

As of March 2008 there have been approximately 40 Spiritual Unity Gatherings held worldwide, including two on the Peaceweavers' land in New York State, two in Siberia, several in Alaska and ten in Australia.

When the Spiritual Unity of the Tribes was established, six prejudices were laid down. They are:

Those who attended the previous Gatherings have addressed these issues. The intent is to gain greater understanding of these prejudices and ways to turn them around. Understanding will bring empowerment and the ability to advocate on behalf of all people and the eradication of the prejudices.

The Gatherings are peaceful in nature, founded upon the very principles which are imparted to all who gather together. While the Gatherings do not presume to be an answer in and of themselves, each is a prototype and hope for the future, creating a loving and unifying atmosphere as standard. The spiritual compassion, tolerance and equality that have been understood by Native peoples for generations are the foundation of the Gatherings. They have the feeling of a family camp-out and lasting friendships develop among participants who come from all over the world. No fee is charged, but donations are welcome. The Gatherings encourage sharing from all who attend, through a prayer, story, song, teaching, etc. Each person is important to the whole and all share around a ceremonial fire.

Elders have been the guiding influence in previous Gatherings and they have instructed that the Grandmothers should speak. The Grandmothers are asked to come forth and once again share their wisdom and knowledge of the ways, language, and philosophies they have learned for the benefit of all Nations of the Human. The Spiritual Unity of Tribes/Gathering of Eagles is an opportunity for the people of all Nations to rediscover how to live on Mother Earth and with All Our Relations. Unity is our goal. Now is the time.

A video production company named World Harmony Unlimited has produced a videotape documenting the Gathering of Eagles. Excerpts of the documentary in RealAudio and text format are available from this link to their store.