Petition to Reschedule the University of New Mexico's Curanderismo Class to the month of July

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the University of New Mexico reschedule the Curanderismo: Traditional Medicine of the Southwest and Mexico class to July, as it was programmed before 2020. The currently scheduled in-person dates of June 2-13, 2025, conflict with several important cultural and personal events, creating challenges for participants and presenters.

The Indigenous peoples of the region, including the Diné, Pueblo, Hopi, Tewa, and Picuris, observe significant ceremonies and celebrations during this time, such as the Summer Solstice, Sun Dances, and equinox-related traditions. Scheduling the class in June infringes on their ability to fully participate in these sacred observances, forcing them to choose between academic engagement and their religious and cultural practices.

In addition to these cultural conflicts, many participants face logistical challenges during June. This includes the current schedule overlapping with summer graduations and weddings, continuing school and college terms that extend into June, and competing commitments that make it difficult for both presenters and continuing education students to attend the two-week program.

To ensure broader accessibility and to honor the diverse cultural and scheduling needs of participants, we request that the June 2025 class be rescheduled to July. This adjustment would not only uphold respect for Indigenous traditions but also support the same audience that has long upheld and benefited from this vital program.

We urge the University of New Mexico to consider this request and restore the class to its previous July schedule, fostering inclusivity, accessibility, and respect for all participants.

Please sign the petition and once signatures have been collected, I will email the petition Dr. Cheo Torres and the co/director of the program, Dr. Mario Del Angel-Guevara.

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Jennifer M. Ortega