The Carnival de Resistance is made up of a diverse group of people who’s political persuasion and theology covers a spectrum of beliefs. The following are not indicative of the overall “message” of the Carnival, but are simply some of the historical movements, artistic traditions, fields of study and teachers that have influenced us.

• Nomadic lifestyles of indigenous and traditional nature-based cultures whose lifeways we believe, while under attack, embody a way to practically resist the forces of empire and domination.

• Nomads in the margins of society, who have lived inside the system but subversively as a counter culture–(gypsies, maroons and other escaped slaves… and the circus.)

• Projects like “Awakening the Dreamer”, that asks people in the developed world to hear the deep wisdom and the urgent warning of indigenous elders.

• Scholars like William Stringfellow who find rich theological meaning through the witness of the circus (see quote below). Or like Ched Myers, who helps us see the theatricality of the prophet’s demonstrations and the dramaturgy laced throughout the whole of scripture. Check out Ched’s ongoing scholarship illuminating the legacy of resistance within communities of faith.

• Communal celebration and earth connected spirituality found in traditional west African drum and dance–joliba ballet, Les ballets Africains, Mamady Keita

• Resistance traditions found in the roots of Brazilian samba. These colorful parades which happen during Carnivale, provide an opportunity for various “escola” (neighborhood samba schools)  to embody various myths, create parody of political figures or historic events, or express their view on a social, environmental or international issue.

• Earth honoring spirituality and communal ceremony and cultural remembrance found in the Native American Pow-wow gatherings