What is kuksu?

Kuksu is a religious system practiced by several Native American tribes in the California region, including the Maidu, Pomo, Miwok, and Wintun people. It is a complex spiritual system that revolves around the worship of the spirits, animals, and natural elements. The central figure in Kuksu is the Nukumne, a powerful spirit that is believed to control the universe.

The Kuksu ceremony involves elaborate rituals, dances, and songs that are performed by masked and costumed dancers. The ceremony can last for several days and is usually held in a special kuksu house or ceremonial center.

Kuksu is also associated with healing, divination, and the transmission of traditional knowledge from elders to the younger generation. Despite attempts by Christian missionaries and the US government to suppress Kuksu and other indigenous spiritual practices, it continues to be practiced by some Native American communities today.