Hearts & Hands on the Land — Memorial Day WeekendMay 22–25, 2025 | Deer Mountain Sanctuary | Montague, CA
This Memorial Day weekend, we gather for something lasting.
Earth Peoples United invites you to join us at Deer Mountain Sanctuary for a special Hearts & Hands on the Land weekend dedicated to the rebuilding of the Pop Jay — our sacred council house and ceremonial heart of the Sanctuary.
About the Pop Jay
The Pop Jay, or "House of the Woven Mat," is a living council space rooted in Mayan wisdom — a place where humanity gathers in unity, guided by natural and cosmic order. At its center burns the sacred fire, the activation point of ceremony, prayer, and collective intention. The Pop Jay at Deer Mountain Sanctuary has served this purpose for our community, and the time has come to renew it.
The existing structure has reached the end of its life and must be carefully taken down. In its place, we will raise a new Pop Jay — built with freshly cut juniper and cedar from the land itself. A skilled forester from our community will be leading the technical work, and we need many hands to make it happen.
The Work
This weekend we will be working at the ceremonial grounds — one of the most sacred and rarely visited spaces on the mountain. Together we will:
Carefully dismantle the existing structure with reverence
Harvest and prepare freshly cut juniper and cedar logs
Begin the process of raising the new Pop Jay
Tend and care for the ceremonial grounds
No experience is necessary — just a willingness to show up, work hard, and contribute your heart and hands to something that will serve this community for generations to come.
Details
Dates: Friday May 22 (afternoon) through Monday May 25 (afternoon)
Location: Deer Mountain Sanctuary, 18100 Ager Beswick Rd, Montague, CA 96064
Cost: Free — camping included
Space: Limited to 20 participants — reserve your spot early
Food: Communal potluck-style meals shared together; please bring food to contribute
Camping: Bring your own gear; limited glamping options available upon request
Registration closes May 17th
Questions? Reach out to info@EarthPeoplesUnited.org
Come ready to serve, to connect, and to build something that will stand for generations.
🌀 All are welcome who come in a good way. 7