Tree Blessing for Project Under Construction at UO

A meaningful project is under construction within the new open space of the Hamilton Walton Transformation. Developed by a group of University of Oregon faculty, administrators, students, Native elders, and representatives of the Confederated Tribes of the Grande Ronde and Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians, the project honors the people who have always lived on this land by physicalizing the University of Oregon’s Land Acknowledgement. Called Cha Uihi, or “A Place to Grow” in Kalapuya, the project combines Native-American culture, sculpture, and nature.

Without revealing too much about the overall design, a Black Oak Tree is being planted at the site. It was beautiful and powerful to witness the blessing of this tree. The ceremony included singing, drumming, and the spreading of tobacco into the tree’s roots. Cha Uihi will be completed in the fall. Stay tuned for more info on the opening.