They walked for our O’odham and Piipaash past, present, and future.

Dozens gathered early on Friday, Sept. 25, at the Two Waters Courtyard in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community for the annual Walk for O’odham Piipaash. The popular walk featured Community members, tribal government employees and others. 

The walk was organized by Community Relations Office’s Events Division. 

SRPMIC Vice-President Ricardo Leonard gave opening remarks and provided participants with words of encouragement along with prayers for everyone. He reminded us, the walk is a prayer for our O’odham and Piipaash past, present, and future. He also reminded participants to be aware of the rez dogs who choose to participate in the walk.

Everyone was getting pumped and ready to walk by doing dynamic stretches to get the blood flow going. And just like that, participants were led to the starting point of the walk. 

The two-mile walk began near the Huhugam Ki: Museum, participants walked down Osborn Road and made a left on Dobson Road to Thomas Road and turned right onto Longmore Road where it ended the same place it started. The Events team provided rides back to Two Waters from the one-mile mark and wherever assistance was needed.

Water stations were available in areas along the route to help participants stay hydrated along the route. 

When the walk concluded, traditional O’odham and Piipaash songs were heard while waiting in line for breakfast that was provided by the CRO Events staff. Those who finished were rewarded with the choice of a gold medal or a shell necklace for showing their endurance for the walk. Walkers also received a participation shirt.