Children are a very important part of our culture. As the next generation, they carry forth our long-standing traditions and language. As we bring our children into the world, we are taught to think ahead about what we will do to care for them. While babies develop in the womb, women are not allowed to perform certain acts because pregnancy is considered a sacred time. For those who come from very traditional families, prohibitions may include restrictions against sewing, weaving, beading, and drawing or looking at certain drawings; this goes for the father-to-be as well. In this manner, we want to assure that the baby will grow and deliver safely.

When a child is on the way, a Blessing Way ceremony is performed to ensure safe delivery for both the mother and baby. When the child arrives, the first cry is announced to the Creator and Holy People; he or she then receives their first blessing, an acknowledgment of coming to their earthly home. The child will have four clans, each one playing a vital role. The mother’s clan is always first, as we are a matrilineal society. The second clan is the father’s first clan, followed by the maternal grandfather’s and paternal grandfather’s clans. This is how the child will identify themselves.

Every family of weavers has their own designs and will produce a special wearing blanket like this one for a child as a gift. The child will hold onto this blanket for life. It serves as a reminder of who they are and records their family lineage.

Text by Nonabah Brooke Sam (Diné), museum curator, Diné College