California Indian Storytelling Association

Bay Area Native American Oral Traditions/Language 2008 2009 2014

The California Indian Storytelling Association (CISA) is committed to providing a storytelling forum for the indigenous people of the Americas, by supporting Native Californian storytellers; honoring elders; passing on storytelling traditions and culture; respecting family and community; promoting awareness of California Indian Cultures; and working with groups sharing a common vision.

In 2014, CISA received a grant from ACTA’s Living Cultures Grants Program to support the digitization of CISA’s archival video footage, encompassing over 15 years of documented projects, programs, performances, and interviews featuring Native storytellers.  This phase of the project will focus on the late Alex Rodriguez (Ohlone), allowing new generation storyteller Richo Miranda (Ohlone) to study the materials and learn Alex’s stories.

In 2008 and 2009, CISA received a grant from ACTA’s Living Cultures Grants Program to support their Annual Southern California Indian Storytelling Festival, featuring indigenous storytelling from tribes throughout California and contributing to the revitalization of oral traditions.  By providing these forums, CISA gives storytellers the opportunity to share stories, learn from one another, discuss issues, and pass stories on to new generations as they educate the public.