Korima
Those who have already been to the Canyons have an experience of the principle of sharing, or Korima. It’s simple, really, and could be resumed by the following words: “What I have, you have”.
Korima is an important part of Raramuri lifestyle and definitely something we celebrate and contribute to. Without asking for thanks or expecting acknowledgement, we share what we can with our friends in the Barrancas, as a demonstration of our respect to the Running People’s culture.
Those interested in bringing Korima are most welcome to do it, but please remember to respect our Raramuri friends by realizing first that they don’t need anything from us in the first place. They have always survived without us for hundreds of years through resilience and their own means, and this is an empowering notion that is certainly part of their humble pride.
Also, please keep in mind that we are not trying to change or influence the culture through our own. Things like shoes (vs huaraches - traditional sandals) and other modern items are not necessarily desired by traditional Raramuris, while others mike like and even prefer them. Take time to understand who you are interacting with, then make your own decision.
Korima is also (mostly!) sharing culture and friendship. Making yourselves available to social interaction and respectfully interacting with the People of the Canyons are a guarantee for valuable cultural contacts on both sides, bringing true meaning to the reason why we all gather for the UMCB in the first place. In that perspective, bringing pictures of your home town, yourself and your family, or your favourite running grounds, or bringing postcards from your country as gifts are all great ideas.
With all that said, there are plenty of things you can bring as Korima that can be helpful and appreciated. Here are some examples:
- Running fuels (gels, electrolytes, etc.) for some of the runners who like them
- Running gear (shoes, clothing, hats, etc.) for runners who want them
- School supplies (pencils, crayons, art material, etc.) for kids
- Warm clothing (it does get cold in the Canyons at times) and blankets
- Non-GMO seeds for gardens (be mindful of climate compatibility and border laws)
- Computer parts (RAM, hard drives, laptops, etc.)
If you want to bring Korima but are unsure or uncomfortable giving it yourself, your co-race directors Maria Walton and Josue Stephens, myself, or your fellow Mas Locos can help point out who needs it or arrange its distribution.
Kuira Ba!