Celebrating commitment to the territory of life: Questions for a grassroots discussion

A celebration can highlight what the community has achieved and what it wishes to further achieve, generating pride and new energy and visibly expressing the collective commitment to conserve a territory of life. Celebrations are crucial to place shared memories, self-awareness and unity at the centre of community life.

…what do we wish to celebrate, and why?

Should our shared vision and commitment to the territory of life be marked by a ceremony or other event with the participation of the community at large?
What would be the desired, positive results of that celebration? Would there be any potential problems with holding a celebration? If potential problems exist, what can we do to counteract them?
What type of event would be appropriate – e.g., a traditional ceremony, possibly including spiritual elements? A ‘modern’ event with speeches and signatures? A mix of approaches? An elaborate event with various elements (food and drinks, songs, dances, art displays, fair of natural products from the territory of life, etc.)?
What terms shall we use to refer to our territory of life and our custodian community? Do we have a specific name for the territory, already discussed and broadly agreed by the community at large that could be re-affirmed and widely used? (See also #Act&Communicate)
How shall we organise the celebration to make sure we reach the desired results? For instance, should we share information or a statement on our vision of the desired future? Should we share a statement of our self-recognition as custodians, e.g. the pledge, charter or principles and criteria we have agreed? If so, who should pronounce such statements – e.g. community elders, youth, the governing body of the territory of life? Should we include in the programme a discussion of any official document that recognises our community as custodian of the territory?

…how do we organise the celebration?

If we hold a celebration, when should it take place? Should it coincide with a market fair or holiday? Should we celebrate after a collective walk in the territory, as done in many traditional cultures? If so, which season and period would work best?
Should everyone in the community be engaged? What role should elders play? Youth? Women? Men? Children?
Who should organise the ceremony? Can a few people volunteer to be in charge?
Who should support it (e.g. with time, funding, food, drinks, music or other contributions)?

There is no ‘best moment’: A celebration at a time of enhanced threats or new opportunity can re-affirm the community vision and generate energy for action. A celebration that takes place after forming a concrete action plan to reach the shared vision that has been agreed upon can kindle willingness to engage and act (see also #Act&Communicate)