Rainbow Family
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The Rainbow Family of Living Light, sometimes known as the "Rainbow Tribe", is an international loose affiliation of individuals who have a common goal of trying to achieve peace and love on Earth. Those who participate in, or sympathize with, the activities of this group sometimes refer to their group simply as the "Family". The words Rainbow Family in the longer title are a reference to the group's inclusiveness of all colors or races. The use of the phrase Living Light in the longer title is a reference to "living lightly", or living with little mass or impact on the environment. Rainbow family participants make the claim that their group is the "largest non-organization of non-members in the world". In addition to referring to itself as a non-organization, the group's "non-members" also even playfully call the group a "disorganization". There are no official leaders or structure, no official spokespersons, and no formalized membership. Instead, the Rainbow Family form communities through shared "traditions" of love for the Earth, and gatherings to pray for peace. It is maintained by councils that consist of any "non-member" who wishes to be part of the council.
The first Gathering occurred in San Francisco, California in 1969, but was not widely known as "the Rainbow Gathering" until 1972. The Rainbow Family is most widely known for its large annual American Gatherings (or U.S. "Nationals" and/or "Annuals") which are held on U.S. Forest Service lands. These U.S. Annual Gatherings usually attract between 10,000 and 25,000 participants and appear to be a constant source of concern for the U.S. Forest Service. They are held in the summer around the time of the Fourth of July and are highlighted by a prayer for peace.
In addition to these larger U.S. Annuals, the Rainbow Family also holds gatherings throughout the year in dozens of other countries. "World Gatherings" are also held from time to time in various countries. Other Rainbow Family activities include regional gatherings (or Regionals) and retreats. There are also small, local activities such as local drum circles, potlucks, music related events and campouts.
All Rainbow Gatherings are held with an open invitation to people of all walks of life, and of all beliefs, to share experiences, love, dance, songs, food and learning.
[edit] External links
- People of the Rainbow: A Nomadic Utopia - an ethnographic study of the Rainbow Family
- Welcomehome.org — Unofficial, current news on gatherings, active calendar, tagboard, mailer, photos, music
[edit] Usenet
alt.gathering.rainbow
