Speaker: Ral Christman, M.A.

About the Presenter: Ral Christman Sr is a member of the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay, and a traditional Kumeyaay Oral Historian. Trained by his father, Ral is a Bird Singer and Kumeyaay Creation story teller. Ral has instructed courses in Kumeyaay History, Humanities and language at various educational institutions such as SDSU, Cuyamaca College, and Kumeyaay Community College.

Abstract:

This presentation will give an overview of the Traditional Kumeyaay Creation Story, precise locations, and its transformations into the present. Special attention will be provided to better understand Oral tradition versus the written word and the impact of a non linear understanding of the human record. The lecture will also focus on methods of traditional knowledge retention amongst the Kumeyaay, and its practical use in modern society and archeology.  Symbolic designs, numerology, and cosmology will be discussed. Kumeyaay Bird Songs will accompany this presentation.