By Miriam Raftery

Photos by Francie Alexander

June 21, 2023  (San Diego) –Native American tribal members completed a cross-country  Run with the Sun, culminating in a Prayer for All Water on June 14, 2023.

The Water Prayer Blessing included the arrival of runners and walkers at the Pacific Beach Pier, the laying down of the staffs used on the run/walk, and waters carried from across the U.S. to be blessed.

After the blessing, everyone was given the opportunity to pour some of the water into the ocean off of the pier.

The run began in Maine in July 12 last year, with runners collecting water vials from tribal members nationwide. The effort was led and inspired by Robert “Bobby” Wallace of Lakeside and supported by the Barona, Viejas and Sycuan tribes to draw attention to the need to protect our water resources.