Lodi Lake docents to hear presentation by Miwok Tribe

LODI — The Lodi Lake Nature Area Docents will host members of the California Valley Miwok Tribe on Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Lodi Police Department Community Room, 215 E. Elm St. The Miwok have been living in the San Joaquin Valley for thousands of years.

The California Miwok are a small tribe that is continually working to preserve their language and culture. Mildred Burley, Tribal Language Retentionist and Tribal Artisan, will share her story of growing up Miwok.

Burley did not encounter her first European white person until she was 8 years of age. She continues to work on teaching younger tribal members their language. She also shares her skills as a traditional basket designer and weaver. Burley has baskets on display at the California Museum of History and Smithsonian’s Native American Museum in Washington, D.C. Mildred Burley will be joined by Dayrl Burley.

He works in the Cultural Department for the tribe as well as being a Sweat Leader. He will share his knowledge of tribal ceremonies as well as demonstrating the variety of instruments that are used during these ceremonies. The culture and traditions of the Miwok continue today through the work and dedication of the tribal members. Join the Docents for a glimpse at the people who lived in the Mokelumne River area thousands of years ago. The public is welcome to attend.