To the editor:
The “discovery” and subsequent naming of our beloved mountain has been extensively discussed and documented. It is important that we all now consider the significance of the mountain as pertains to the Ute People.
I offer the following information after discussion with a knowledgeable and deeply contemplative Native American I am blessed to know. I honor him as my resource and guide while attempting to address this issue from a place of peace and respect for everyone and all opinions.
Tava held the place of utmost reverence in the culture and beliefs of the people who lived on these lands for hundreds of years before our Caucasian ancestors arrived.
Tava, the Ute word for Sun, is profoundly meaningful in their culture. Their belief that the mountain is “Mother” and the source of life is vitally important to understand and speaks directly to the validity of returning to the mountain its sacred name.
When the Ute People were compelled to move west, the overwhelming loss of their lands, way of life and separation from “Mother” was devastating. The separation resulted in the People choosing to begin identifying themselves as “Tabeguache,” “People of the Sun” after their relocation.
Rather than degrading/diminishing the culture of the Ute People, restoring the mountain’s name to Tava would serve to honor and respect the People and their Mother.
Ila Quinn