​​Native ‘Wiping of Tears’ ceremony in Phoenix brings community together to grieve and heal

Nearly 50 Indigenous people gathered June 7 in Phoenix, Arizona, for the first “Wiping of Tears” ceremony hosted by the Phoenix Indian Center, aimed at collective healing from ongoing trauma and loss, according to Cronkite News. The Lakota-origin ceremony, led by Delaney Apple (Oglala Lakota), included traditional practices such as sage smudging, chokecherry tea and Wasna offerings.

Elicia Goodsoldier, language and culture program coordinator for the center and a member of the Navajo Nation and Spirit Lake Dakota Sioux Tribe, said the ceremony addresses grief that affects participation in cultural programs. Attendees shared stories of loss related to violence, addiction and missing relatives. Goodsoldier emphasized the need to reclaim traditional teachings and grieving practices disrupted by colonialism and urban relocation, noting the center serves members of over 90 federally recognized tribes.