The opening blessing starts with music to bring us all together. The drumming begins with a powerful calling forth of ancestors and spirit. No cameras, no recording allowed. In the back of the room I blog and feel protective of the door. A wonderful surge of people quietly streams into the room to take part in the blessing and witness the altar that has been built in tribute to the incredible artistic energy that lives within this building and fuels the creative community it has inspired leading to this annual Un/Conference, Women Who Rock. We are called to remember the people who made this land and the issues of struggle we must face in honor of their sacrifices and the better world we wish to make for their children. We are gathered together to honor everyone’s work and give cultural respect. With that invitation, we commence.