The new Santa Fe Living Treasures -- Our Elders, Our Hearts, Vol. II, 1994-2008 will debut at a free book-signing in the Palace Courtyard. Join past and present recipients of the "treasures" honor, celebrating its 25th anniversary.
The much-anticipated second book of Santa Fe Living Treasures will debut at a book-signing on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2-4pm in the courtyard of the Palace of the Governors. Santa Fe Living Treasures -- Our Elders, Our Hearts, Vol. II, 1994-2008 contains portraits and profiles of Treasures by author Richard McCord and photographer Steve Northup.
The first book, Living Treasures -- Celebration of the Human Spirit, published in 1997, portrayed the Treasures honored from 1984-94. A large number of Treasures will be present at this free event, which is open to the public.
The host is the Living Treasures Committee and the Museum of New Mexico.
This year marks the 25th anniversary for Living Treasures, a nonprofit founded in 1984 by peace activist, teacher, author and minister Mary Lou Cook, who became a Treasure herself in 1988. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's dictum, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world," the group sought to express prominent appreciation for remarkable contributions made by elders aged 70 or more. Modeled on traditions from Japan, the Santa Fe Living Treasures program was the first in the nation; other cities and towns have since followed suit.
The program has been featured on television, radio and in publications and has served as an inspiration for what individuals can accomplish with courage, passion, sensitivity optimism, dedication, wisdom and love.
Twice a year, Santa Fe Living Treasures honors three treasures whose oral histories and photographs are recorded, archived and made available to the public at the Fray Angelico Chavez History Library.
Says noted author John Nichols: “This book is as beautiful as the people, and the state, that it celebrates. The photographs and the writing bear witness to a great love that all New Mexicans share: for our culture, for our history, and the landscape that cradles us in its arms. These Living Treasures have nurtured that love and are passing it on to the next generation. Profound thanks are due all of them.”
