Let's Get 1 Million Indigenous People Moving!

Contributed by: 2005 Laguna Fiesta 5k/10k/ Walk
Date: 11/2/05

The Laguna Prevention Coalition collaborated with the Laguna Diabetes Program to host the Third Annual Walk Down the Line Event on Saturday, October 22, 2005. The event began at the Dancing Eagle Casino, where 107 participants were bussed to the next destination along Historic Route 66. The participants chose to either walk or run the 9.3 mile stretch from San Fidel, NM to the Dancing Eagle Casino located on Laguna Pueblo . . .</br></br>The Walk Down the Line event is an annual community-wide tradition to promote awareness of substance abuse prevention in the Pueblo of Laguna. &quot;Going up the line&quot; has become an acceptable term and norm in the community that encourages binge drinking and refers to visiting the local bars located on the neighboring Land Grant property along Route 66. The Walk Down the Line represents an effort of the community to reverse the norm of going &quot;up the line&quot;.<br /><br />The Mission statement developed by the Laguna Prevention Coalition that states: to improve the overall health and wellness of the Laguna community respecting Laguna&rsquo;s cultural traditions and values. The goals of the Third Annual Walk Down the Line support this Mission Statement: <br /> <ul> <li>To change the location of alcohol in the local grocery store <br /></li> <li>To increase recreational opportunities for Laguna youth <br /></li> <li>To promote healthy choices for Laguna families</li> </ul> Integrating Just Move It! was an ideal choice in promoting a healthier community. The Laguna Diabetes Program, Just Move It! crew were on-site to provide health screenings for walkers or runners.<br /><br />Promoting a healthier community will contribute to greater outcomes for the youth of Laguna Pueblo.