HISTORY OF ICSAW
HISTORY
The International Council of Elders and Spiritual Guides of the Americas was founded on the belief that no people or community should have to face threats to their culture, lands, traditions, or ways of life alone. Through unity, relationship, and a shared voice, the Council sought to strengthen cooperation among peoples and support communities in protecting what has been entrusted to them.
The Council was launched on April 27, 2009, during the Return of the Ancestors Gathering, held April 18–28, 2009, in Northern Arizona. Elders and spiritual leaders gathered around a sacred fire in Page Springs, Arizona, that was tended continuously throughout the gathering.
The vision of the Council extended beyond geographical borders and the limitations of a single gathering. The sacred fire became a symbol of an ongoing relationship—kept alive through communication, dialogue, prayer, and the continued participation of its members. English and Spanish were used to help connect communities throughout the Americas and support an ongoing exchange among Council members.
On November 11, 2011 (11-11-11), members of the International Council of Elders and Spiritual Guides gathered again around sacred fires on the Island of the Sun and Island of the Moon. From this gathering came the decision to establish the International Center for Spiritual and Ancestral Wisdom (ICSAW) as a central organization through which projects, relationships, cultural programs, and teachings could be supported and shared.
The vision included the development of international centers and the establishment of a primary center in or near Sedona, Arizona.
In April 2026, the spirit of connection continued through the Eagle Quetzal Condor gathering in Northern Arizona, bringing Indigenous Elders, wisdom keepers, cultural representatives, and community together in ceremony, dialogue, cultural exchange, and relationship.
Through ICSAW, the work that began around those sacred fires continues to evolve—building relationships across cultures and generations and supporting the preservation and continuation of ancestral wisdom for those who will carry it forward.
LETTERS OF SUPPORT & RECOGNITION
Over the years, Adam Yellow Bird DeArmon and the International Center for Spiritual & Ancestral Wisdom have developed relationships with individuals, organizations, and communities who recognize and support their work.
These letters offer a glimpse into the relationships, shared commitments, and collaborative efforts that have helped shape this journey.
Explore Past Ceremonies & Events
TIME OF THE SIXTH SUN
Adam Yellow Bird DeArmon in conversation with Theo van Dort and Nikki Luna
(click image to watch)
