This post was written by Sarah Angulo, 2015 Mono Lake Intern.
Here in the Mono Basin, we have come to know how important water is for sustaining life. The streams that flow down the mountains and into Mono Lake support a thriving ecosystem. The Mono Lake Committee and its members remember how Rush, Lee Vining, Parker, and Walker creeks were once silent, and that it took the love and dedication of a group of people to revive the place so many cherish.
It’s these type of connections with water that the organizers of Walking Water are looking to create on a broad scale. They plan to raise awareness of how people interact and use water resources in their daily lives, as well as encourage people to think critically about the ways water intersects with human communities at large. Walking Water is carrying out these goals by walking the waterways, both natural and human-constructed, between Mono Lake and Los Angeles. With this journey, the organizers hope to inspire others to learn about where their water comes from and take action towards increasing personal connection and efficient use of the resource.
In deeming this journey a “pilgrimage,” the route from Mono Lake to Los Angeles is intended to be a meaningful movement for, with, and towards water. The issues that water brings up and the walk seeks to address can often touch many communities. The event will also bring together these different groups of people along the over 300-mile trek, including native people, world-travelers, and locals alike. Throughout the intended route, the participants will share stories and engage in conversation about historic water use conflicts. Through the telling of these stories, organizers hope to create a better sense of understanding and healing over past and present water conflicts.
The walkers began the first half of the three-year event here at Mono Lake. On September 1, Walking Water participants and organizers stayed with us at our Mono Basin Outdoor Education Center, after opening ceremonies along Lee Vining Creek earlier in the day. Their next event will be held on Thursday, September 10 in Bishop at the Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center. To follow along or attend one of their events, click the link for more information.
The Mono Lake Committee wishes Walking Water a safe journey on its way to Los Angeles!