A call for help for our indigenous elder

Hello All— we are asking for your help in supporting Taita Sebastian, an indigenous doctor, activist and tribal leader from Putumayo, Colombia, retrieve the ceremonial items that were seized from him by the Department of Fish and Wildlife when he arrived in the United States. As a tribal member, the Taita should have the right to use certain animal products for religious purposes that non-tribal members do not.

The Taita was scheduled to come to the US for a month to share his wisdom and culture, and to raise awareness of his lands, community and environmental works.

When Taita Sebastian landed at DFW airport in late May, he was detained and interrogated with no food or water for 12 hours and sent back home to Columbia. We worked for months to secure his visa and ensure a smooth journey. During his detainment, all of the sacred items that he brought with him to the US, which have been passed down, from father to son, for several generations were confiscated. These were irreplaceable, culturally significant items, and we are working with an attorney to have them returned to Taita Sebastian and his family before it is too late.

Our intention with this fundraiser is to empower Taita Sebastian with financial resources to help navigate the legal process both in the US and in Colombia.

Taita Sebastian is an incredible teacher, environmental activist, father, husband and friend, and any contribution big or small will help this cause.

Your support will continue to perpetuate the healing and transformation that is Taita’s life’s work. It is our honor to be of support to him and his family, and we will continue to do so for years to come.

With love and gratitude,

Taylor, Stephani & Matthew