Nex'wetem (Southern California Indian Basketweavers Association)

<p>A Southern California basket weavers association — Nex’wetem — was formed in 2000 to support the activities of local weavers. Co-founder and President Donna Largo, now deceased, taught many, who in turn became new teachers.</p>
<p>“The purpose of Nex’wetem is to perpetuate the basket weaving heritage of Southern California indigenous peoples by engaging in activities and educational pursuits designed to achieve that end,” according to Lorene Sisquoc, co-founder and treasurer.</p>
<p>“It supports something that was almost lost in our tribal communities. It brings awareness to the community and pride and culture preservation to our people,” Sisquoc said.</p>
<p>Members of the group often attend public events at the Malki Museum in Banning on the Morongo Reservation, such as the Agave Harvest on April 21, to share their knowledge and experience.</p>
<p>Sisquoc, who is also curator at the Sherman Indian Museum in Riverside, said many members also belong to the California Indian Basketweavers Association and meet at annual gatherings.</p>
<p>“We teach each other and share stories, traditions, techniques and provide a time to work on our basketry,” she said, adding that being part of a larger group offers members more support, socializing, networking and a stronger voice.</p>

<p> With Riverside County women in the lead, the Southern California Indian Basketweavers Organization -- called Nex'wetem after a Cahuilla word for basket weavers -- has formed to save and share the region's heritage....</p>
<p>Donna Largo, a Cahuilla basket weaver from the Santa Rosa Reservation in the mountains above Palm Desert in eastern Riverside County, is president. She is teaching basketry this week during the Idyllwild Arts Academy annual "Native American arts and culture" summer program, as she has for many years.</p>

<p>Largo sparked the group's beginnings when she called for a basket gathering last October. Nearly 200 people from area reservations expressed interest. People from Southern California cultures -- Quechan, Kumeyaay, Chumash, Tongva, Cahuilla, Luiseno and Juaneno -- learned ancient gathering and coiling techniques with juncus, sumac and other traditional plant materials.</p>