Seeds of Language, Seeds of Stories: Nitsáhákéés (Thinking Creatively)
This is Session 1 in a series led by Diné (Navajo) writer Manny Loley. To think about how we build a relationship with our languages, this initial session will focus on a single word—naadą́ą́’ (simply translated as corn). We will be thinking about our relationship with naadą́ą́’ (and in extension planting) to generate ideas about how we can expand our thinking about and engagement with language. How are we looking at our languages on a deeper level? How can we create a deeper understanding? What are the philosophies present within words in our languages? What can these ideas teach us about being human and about our relationship with the physical spaces we inhabit? While we will be looking at a Diné conceptualization of the word “corn,” participants are encouraged to also work from the word for “corn” in their ancestral/heritage language. This initial meeting will focus on creativity and generative writing exercises and discussion.
Materials needed: something to write and take notes with, the word for “corn” in your ancestral/heritage language, and an open mind.
Register at https://asu.libcal.com/calendar/labriola/20260212-session1-Nitsahakees
Additional sessions in the series will be presented weekly at different locations, leading up to the AZ Humanities Blue Corn Festival.
- Date:
- Thursday, February 12, 2026
- Time:
- 4:00pm - 6:00pm
- Time Zone:
- Arizona Time (change)
- Location:
- South Mountain Community Library
- Audience:
- Adults Teens
- Categories:
- Arts, Culture, Literature and Exhibits Book Discussions and Author Visits Diversity