Honoring some of the Goddesses in our pantheon on the first day of #HispanicHeritageMonth by remembering and centering the important spiritual and cultural contributions of the indigenous groups of Mexico, Central and South America, and Afro-Latino and Afro-Caribbean people.
🌙Ix Chel - This Mayan Goddess of love, fertility, and the moon is similar to Pachamama in many ways. She is benevolent and generous, but can unleash destruction if the need arises. She reminds us that though the planet may provide us with bountiful resources, we must still respect, appreciate, and honor these gifts. Nature is as strong as it is fragile, and treating it with anything less than complete reverence can result in severe punishment.
🧜🏾♀️Yemaya - A Goddess of the Yoruba religion, Yemaya is also revered by Afro-Caribbeans (particularly in Cuba). Known as the Ocean Mother Goddess, Yemaya is another benevolent and nurturing deity who nonetheless can be tenacious and fearful. Like water, she can be calm and turbulent depending on the circumstances. Yemaya was believed to be brought over into the “New World” by enslaved Africans, where her influence and magic spread through the years.
🌿Pachamama (Mother Earth) - The Andean Goddess of fertility, Pachamama is depicted in our rendering as a beautiful woman with flowing hair cradling the Earth in her protective arms. She is considered a benevolent Goddess who nurtures and protects all life on the planet, but she has a dark side to her as well. When angered, she can unleash floods, earthquakes, and other natural disasters to remind her children that she will not tolerate being disrespected. With the current climate discourse in full effect, it is easy to see why her power and strength are needed now more than ever.
🌟Oshun - Afro-religions that exist and thrive in the Caribbean diaspora come from the Yoruba religion of several African nations in West Africa. Oshun is one of the most revered deities, known as a protectress, healer, benevolent spirit, and bringer of prosperity. This sensual and radiant Goddess can bring you love and make your wishes come true.