On this Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a momentous announcement is made that brings both celebration and gratitude. The prestigious Mellon Foundation has bestowed a generous grant of $650,000 upon the Big Bend Conservation Alliance, in collaboration with the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, for the preservation and enhancement of Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes.
This significant grant from the Mellon Foundation is set to play a pivotal role in preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of this sacred site. The grant will primarily support the finalization of construction and the development of interpretive signage, ensuring the site’s accessibility and educational value.
The Mellon Foundation’s commitment to this project aligns perfectly with its broader initiative, the Monuments Project, which aims to create inclusive spaces that amplify stories often underrepresented in commemorative settings. Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes stands as a testament to the rich history of the Lipan Apache Tribe, making it a worthy focal point of this endeavor.
As a part of this grant, Dr. Nakya Flotte, a distinguished anthropologist, artist, and community organizer of Lipan/Jumano ancestry, will be commissioned to lead a community-driven effort for interpreting the site and developing informative signage. Dr. Flotte, who grew up in Ojinaga/Presidio and graduated from Presidio High School, now holds a Ph.D. in anthropology from Harvard, making her exceptionally qualified for this role.
In addition to supporting interpretation and signage, this grant will also fund a comprehensive study aimed at understanding the land reclamation needs of Indigenous peoples in the Big Bend and greater Texas region. This study will involve interviews with individuals connected to the area, including members of the Lipan Apache, Jumano, and Indigenous Peoples of La Junta, irrespective of their tribal affiliations.
Dr. Maia Rodriguez, a distinguished scholar with ties to the Lipanes of both the San Antonio and south Texas valley region, will lead this vital research. Dr. Rodriguez, holding a Ph.D. in English with a designated emphasis in Critical Theory from the University of California, Berkeley, currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Native American Studies at the University of New Mexico.
Taking the lead alongside the Big Bend Conservation Alliance team, Christina Hernandez, a direct descendant of those interred at Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes and a member of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, will co-lead the efforts to complete construction and commence the land reclamation study. Her personal connection to the site underscores the project’s profound cultural significance.
The announcement of the Mellon Foundation’s support is met with profound gratitude and admiration for their incredible generosity in safeguarding this sacred site. Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes has also received invaluable support from numerous individuals who contributed to the “Protect the Camposanto” campaign on GoFundMe, as well as through grants awarded by organizations including the American Electric Power Foundation, Amerigroup, Cibolo Creek Ranch, City of Presidio, Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation, Horizon Foundation, National Trust for Historic Preservation, Presidio Municipal Development District, Texas Historical Foundation, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Still Water Foundation, and Summerlee Foundation.
This collaborative effort to preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes is a shining example of the positive impact that can be achieved through unity and shared commitment. As we mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the Mellon Foundation’s generous grant stands as a beacon of hope for the enduring protection of our shared history and culture.
Photo: MASS Design Group
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