Today, members of the Coastal and Valley tribe of the Chumash joined together with members of the Santa Barbara community to re-dedicate the Dolphin fountain at the waterfront.

The fountain which honors the Dolphin relatives of the Chumash people, was enshrined thirty years ago today.

The Dolphins face the northern direction and its placement in the fountain symbolizes harmony in the three worlds. Since we are in severe drought, plants have replaced the flow of water; the Chumash people sang traditional  and contemporary songs in their language – to honor and welcome the plants, their Dolphin ancestors and the flow of life; which includes the revitalization of the Chumash language.Ho!

Learn more about Chumash life, culture and song here.

Text and photos copyright Ana Elisa Fuentes. Photos captured with Apple iPod