Native American Appreciation Night with Lady Cougars!

This was quite the unusual type of event for me for many reasons one; I’m a UW Husky and WSU Cougars are our mortal enemies, two; the ladies on the opposing team are Umatilla, sister Tribes to the Yakama, and three; my mom although a UW Graduate, is at heart, a Cougar from her WAZZU Undergrad years. So, I was very excited to go, since the Yakama Nation Youth Activities, LISTEN Program invited me and I played basketball in high school and love it!

With the Wapato and Toppenish kids, and Patsy Whitefoot. 

The event was put on by the Lady Cougars Basketball Team and I first heard about this game while at the WSU Fall Powwow this past October. The Basketball Team made an appearance and invited all to come check it out. They were to play against Louisville University, where Umatilla Ballplayer Shoni Schimmel and her sister Jude Schimmel play. They’re family are the stars on the recent film, “Off the Rez,” where their success story about basketball is shared. In honor of recognizing the accomplishments of these ladies, royalties were invited to attend and be recognized at half time. Yakama Nation Youth Activities Program in conjunction with Johnson O’Malley, sponsored two Greyhounds to bus people to the game in Pullman. My family and I enjoyed the ride with various kids and other families as we jammed out to the films; Elf, and Coach Carter.

Wave!

Basketball is a big thing in Indian Country and brings families, and people together. Although I didn’t get to speak at this event, I thoroughly savored every moment of the game—which was very close—reminiscing of my younger years. Hanging out with Miss Pah-Loots-Pu is always fun, this year’s WSU Powwow Queen is Chelsie Pratt, who hails from the Warm Springs Reservation. All our Queens are lovely examples to our youth about leadership, and pursuing your dreams. It was amazing being able to meet with the younger royalties, Miss and Lil Miss Julyamsh. It means a lot to our Native youth to see themselves in these big places, and having our youth visit any college is a great way to reinforce the idea that they can pursue higher education, and that it is normal for Natives to be getting their degrees. Shoni and Jude are an inspiration, heroes even and just the tip of the ice berg of the talent within each of our Native children. They’re story empowers me to remember that I learned a lot about myself through basketball: my strengths, the limits I put on myself, and how far I can push to be all I can be. It meant the world to me, when I was little, to see strong ladies duking it out on the court, whether they were Native or not, so being able to watch these Native ladies play college ball and to see all the kids they’ve lifted up is definitely something I’ll treasure. 

Making it in Muckleshoot

The Powwow was held at the Muckleshoot Tribal School, and it was my first time there. There were a few other events going on throughout the day, and earlier that morning I visited the Bazaar at a local Muckleshoot Church. While helping my dad put up his booth, I got the chance to talk with a young girl who was volunteering with the fry bread. She had just won a scholarship to visit DC Arlington National Cemetery for an essay she had entered with her school at Enumclaw! Awesome!! She was already doing great things and she was only in the 8^th grade! It’s always a pleasure to see our youth having the courage to allow their education to take them places. Unfortunately she couldn't make it to the Powwow later that evening, but our conversation was enough to light up the gray overcast day.

With the royalties

That evening we drove into the driveway of the Muckleshoot Tribal School, it was a beautiful newly remodeled building. I know it definitely boosts morale and pride when you’re school building looks as fit as a 4A city school. It’s always special to me when cultural events are held at schools, and I always try to acknowledge and recognize why it’s important that Tribes are the ones teaching our youth. “Education” and “culture” aren’t opposites in my opinion, they go hand in hand. As I walked in the stands, I shook hands with people and wished them happy holidays. The evening was quiet, and I got to enjoy seeing my cousin dance Fancy Shawl. My dad sold his Deer jerky and the raffle tickets for Clear Sky Native Youth Council. As I watched the dancing, I reflected on that girl and how supportive her family was, and how proud her grandmother was when we were speaking. I had shared with her that this was just the tip of the iceberg and that there are many more things to come when you go to college, more opportunities. It makes me glad for the Native mentors both in our families and in our schools, and knowing that little girl has some gives me hope to see more of our youth flexing their talents.      

Honoring our Sports Warriors!

I was asked by my friend Angelo Baca to attend and speak at the Sports Warriors Honoring Dinner at the Duwamish Longhouse. He does a lot of work with the youth at Big Sky High School, he's also a filmmaker and he and I know each other from UW. But he also happens to be an medal winning competitive runner! He was hosting the Sports Warriors Team who would be competing in an upcoming race the next day at the USATF National Championship Race at in South Seattle. Many of these people were once affiliated with Wings for America, a national organization that empowers Native youth through running. I learned about them at NCAI, where I met their Program Director, Dustin Martin. Dustin was promoting the film , “Run to the East,” a documentary about Native kids fresh out of high school who are competitive runners. One of the kids from the film was actually there that night at the dinner! Wow!! It reminded me that there are Natives who are pursuing healthy lifestyles and who are fighting to live in balance. Quite honestly I was bubbling with anticipation to see these young people who were being such good examples of living drug-free and alcohol-free simply by being themselves.   

These athletes introduce themselves.

My dad was a runner in his younger years, and he always encouraged me to be healthy, and athletic, both spiritually and physically. It reminded me of how he would always tell me to pray before a basketball game, and often I’ve found a similarity in Native athletes; the blending of cultural spirituality with sports. All in all, I can’t say what it was that fascinated most about this event, the athletes, or perhaps it was because I wanted motivation to work out more often. I’m sure I got both. Throughout the evening we listened as various runners were asked to share their story and what inspires them about running. There were a men’s team and a women’s team. They all sounded so strong and independent! Yet the room was full with their families and people who supported them.

Angelo's introduction.

When I spoke I asked the team to stand up so we could applaud them. I said how thankful I was to be there and how inspiring they were for me and that their example will bless the upcoming youth even if they themselves can’t tell yet. I said how their stories made me think of people like Billy Mills, youth like Shoni Schimmel, and the long history of Native athletic games like Lacrosse. These runners are part of that history and although they’re young, they're making that history every day, and every time they compete. I thanked them for coming to the Pacific Northwest to share their talent and it’s my sincere hope for them to continue to be successful and to keep pushing themselves. In a way I feel like they are doing what many people wish they could by staying healthy and strong. They’re definitely an example for me to keep exercising, and I know they’ll continue to be an example for more people to come. 

With the Women's Team!

NAHM; Celebrate on the Yakama Rez!

This entire day consisted of three consecutive events; the Opening of a new Veteran’s Exhibit at the Yakama Nation Heritage Museum, the Elder’s Honoring Luncheon at the Yakama Nation Tribal School, and finally, the Native American Heritage Month Assembly at my very own Wapato High School. Fortunately for me, I was very interested in being part of as many things as I could so I was alright with having an action packed day. To start with, the Opening of the Veteran’s Exhibit began at 8 am sharp. The exhibit was a display of the many Yakama veterans along with a gifting of a very special American Flag to our people. Like my presentation at the Veteran’s Camp, I was asked to do the Welcome Dance and say a few words. (I was rescued by the Library Staff Merida and Ezilda who had a copy of the song.) During my talk, I spoke about my Pusha (my grandfather on my dad’s side), Joe Jay Pinkham Jr, and his life’s work for Native Veterans across this country. I’m always proud to share that he was one of the first Native Master Gunner Sergeant’s of the Korean War, and that he served on our General Council for nearly 50 years. But the highlight of the program surely went to Virginia Beavert, one of the 4 remaining Yakama veterans of World War II, and also the prominent linguist of our Tribe. She gave a powerful speech which everyone responded with a standing ovation.

Yakama Warriors

After the presenting of the new flag, Dad and I headed over to the Tribal School for the Elders Honoring Luncheon. This luncheon is put on by the students and teachers of the Yakama Nation Tribal School which serves students between middle school and high school. It was my first time attending the event and this year was made even more special with the return of the Waptu, or wild Potato. After 50 years, without any replanting, the potato came back. Calvin Wahsise, the little brother of my good friend Andrea Wahsise requested that we welcome the food with a set of seven songs; old Wa’shut way. In Yakama culture, Wa’shut religion governed and continues to govern, how the bands organized feasts, by aligning themselves with the cycles of nature, and conducted sacred prayer in thanksgiving for these feasts, through ancient songs and ceremonies. Calvin invited elders in the audience to do the drumming and it was soothing for me to hear these songs again. As we ate, I was asked to come up and speak a few words. I shared my story of having to move back and forth between the Rez and Seattle, and how what protected me amidst those years of culture confusion (not to mention shock) was knowing who I am as a Yakama. It’s our songs, teachings, and stories that reinforce our identity and that’s what has given me strength.

With Miss National Indian Days at Wa-Hi

After speaking, Dad and I hustled over to Wapato High School (now you see why the joke, “Wap-potato” is appropriate) for the Native American Heritage Month Assembly. I was asked by the Native American Student Association, the club I myself was once part of, to speak and present the school with a Yakama Nation flag. Prior to the Assembly, I visited with the Disability students; my aunt Paige teaches their class, and asked me to come and speak with them for a few minutes. It was nice to talk with these kids who are often separated from the rest of the happenings of the school. It was wonderful visiting with them, and answering their questions, it reminds me that I need to be more aware of how our communities are impacted by Disability even on the Reservation. I was anxious as we headed over to the gym for I was truly thrilled to be part of the assembly, and more proud than I could ever be, to see how NASA has grown and evolved. To see how these students have really learned to take initiative in bringing Yakama culture into the schools was inspiring. Arguably, high school students are probably the most difficult audience to engage at an assembly so I kind of had to pull out my insider as a Wolf (class of ’08). I remembered how unaware my non-native classmates were of Yakama culture when I was in high school, so I had more than a few first-hand experiences to share. During the 15 min Q&A I was asked to perform the Butterfly Dance, which I did…on a full stomach. But hey, that’s high school. And it was all worth it. J

Culture in College

I was invited to the South Seattle Community College Native American Heritage Month Salmon Bake by friend Patricia Allen—a Tlingit/Haida who is the Native American Student Commission Director, and is in charge of such events. Patricia and I met a year ago when I was the American Indian Commission Director for UW and our jobs crossed paths. I’m particularly proud of our Native students who are involved in student government and especially with my experience in putting on the ASUW AISC 2011 Winter Powwow, I’m definitely appreciative of students who take valuable time and who sacrifice to put on these important cultural events. Going to school in Seattle can be difficult if you’re Native as there isn’t a nearby Reservation or a large population in such a diverse and large city. Urban Indians, often struggle twice as hard to establish a strong, visible Native presence in schools and it’s no different in college. I know, that going to University of Washington, where there are 40,000+ students, I often feel like a number, and reaching the Native community can be a challenging task since students are so spread out. But when we come together in our Native clubs like First Nations @ UW, or AISES, it’s a beautiful feeling to find your community and to feel encouragement by the presence of your fellow peers. I like to maintain strong ties with Native students from other colleges, and I admire Patricia’s work and the example she is to me.   

I was also interested to see the turnout, she advised me that a majority of non-native students usually are in attendance, which is to be expected. It’s important for me that when I engage an audience that I do it at an appropriate level so that I pace myself. For example, I don’t give the exact same presentation for elementary students as I would these college students. Also, I try to play off of other presenters in the program that I’m part of, but this time around I was the first presenter aside from the Sacred Water Canoe family who sang an honoring song, along with various songs throughout the lunch. So, I tried to go ‘back to the basics’ and made sure to include a lot of Native history in the Seattle area and Washington state history. As I spoke, I began to realize that this is probably what professors go through when they give lectures. To make sure I didn’t put myself to sleep, I included my personal experience growing up back and forth between the Yakama Reservation and Seattle. That was after all challenging for me, and I know it's not an uncommon experience. 

But, as I spoke, I learned that there is sometimes more value in sharing a personal story rather than reciting facts and court cases. History is after all written from personal accounts, but there isn't enough written from Native peoples' perspective so why not give one? And who knows? Maybe someday...  

Native 101

I was really, and I mean REALLY looking forward to this presentation. I’d been invited by my aunt Vicki Pinkham to present at Pinehurst K-8 for their Native American Heritage Month Assembly. Their family comes to Clear Sky meetings every Tuesday, and they’re very supportive of their children, and their daughter attends Pinehurst. Scott and Vicki are Professors at the University of Washington and do a lot of outreach for our Native students in the sciences. I found this to be a special opportunity to try and reach the younger, non-native kids who are at the perfect age to soak up new knowledge. I am deeply aware of the struggles of our Native students who encounter micro-aggressions from their peers at school (sometimes not so micro), which in my experience, more often than not stems from ignorance and…sometimes a lack of respect. As these children were still very young, I was intensely determined on making a presentation that they could both learn from, and feel comfortable asking questions all in a respectful, appropriate way. They’re children, and any child can learn anything at a young age.

I began with the basics. I figure they can learn the in-depth political stuff when they get older. For now, I just wanted to give them the context; a simple but diverse, picture of Indian Country. After introducing myself, I knew their first questions would probably be around my regalia, so I taught them the word, “regalia,” and had them repeat it. I figured many of these kids had been to Powwows or at least heard of them and making sure they didn’t say “costume” is definitely a box to check off. I then launched into the presentation using “Did you know…?” questions. I always found these to be engaging when I was little, and I hoped to use it again with presenting some basic 101 about Native Americans in today’s world. I had to draw from a book I had read from one of my courses, “Native Roots,” which essentially documents the long history of how modern day technologies can trace their origins to Native and indigenous cultural practices. From the Constitution to Popcorn, from medicine to sports, Native teachings have been incorporated and used to propel society into the future. As I spoke, I found myself standing a little taller, speaking a little louder and I could feel a happy warmth spread from my crown, all the way to my moccasin-clad toes. It was a beautiful feeling that would persist for days afterward. 

I reflected on a life changing experience I had in the 2nd grade. One of my classmates said to me, “All you believe in are your stupid Indian legends!” Her words taught me to question what other people think of when they hear the word, “Indian.” It made me ponder how our youth and children are educated and whether or not there’s a way for we as Native people to feel validated, and comfortable in our own skin. But as we did Q&A, I found there were children as young as 7 years old who wanted to know about the Native Tribes in California, who were interested in the Canoe Journey here in Seattle, who wanted to know what kind of math the Aztecs did, who wanted to know more. It was also healing for me, not just to share my culture, or historical knowledge, but to hear their positive response to it and their sincere desire to learn more. It gives me hope for the next generation. 

There is legislation in Congress by the National Indian Education Association that seeks to improve Native education. Support the Native CLASS Act and find out how we can benefit our kids to live more educated lives!   

Day 3: Youth Commission Activities and Honoring Luncheon!

So much had happened by now, it was all I could do to keep up! The next day of Youth Commission featured presentations from Big Brothers Big Sisters in Indian Country, Center for Native American Youth, the Youth Honoring Luncheon, and two time Native GRAMMY recording artist Star Nayea!

Morning Presentations!

The Big Brothers Big Sisters in Indian Country discussed mentorship, and how we—Native kids—can be mentors for the younger ones. We did an activity where we made a paper kid and paper mentor and told their story. Afterwards we broke up into talking circles-important discussion groups where we passed around a feather much like a talking stick. I enjoyed the conversation our group had; we discussed cultural vs contemporary attire. We all came from different tribes all over the country and it really made me appreciate the diversity of tribal leadership, albeit, on a macro scale.

Youth Commission Activities

Afterward, we heard a brief presentation from Dustin Martin, the Program Director for ‘Wings for America, a national organization that empowers Native youth through running and fitness. He discussed the film, “Run to the East,” and how we as Native people can use our cultural lifestyles to keep us not only physically healthy, but spiritually as well. The Center for Native American Youth discussed with us more in depth about how we can use healthy lifestyles for suicide prevention and further youth development in our own communities. We heard from Dirk Whitebreast, the tribal leader from Sac & Fox Tribe of Minnesota. He shared his incredible journey from suicide when he decided to run 10 marathons in 30 days to raise awareness of youth suicide prevention. I really appreciated their message and it’s helping me understand that healing comes in many different ways.

Luncheon!

It came time for the Youth Honoring Luncheon! (I was particularly looking forward to this as I was very hungry and my mom and I had developed a habit of not eating breakfast by now.) During this luncheon, we would be honoring an outstanding boy and girl with the Ernie Stevens Jr., Leadership Award. My mom and I (after a frantic 15 min search for the ballroom) sat with Annette Anquoe of the Seattle Indian Health Board, and the students from T’ohono O’dham Youth Council joined us. I had seen them at UNITY this last summer so we finally got to formally introduce ourselves.

Ballroom for Luncheon

Later, Star Nayea took the stage and gave a powerhouse performance (like always)! I’ve met her before through my time in Red Eagle Soaring (a Native American theatre group here in Seattle) and at a previous conference. As always she shared her incredible story as a “Scoop Up” baby; she was part of the 60’s/70’s generation of First Nations children who were stolen from their families and purposely adopted outside their communities to be assimilated into non-native society. She found her healing through music and singing. She would be the final presentation to the youth after the luncheon. J

Winner of the Ernie Stevens Jr. Leadership Award

Afternoon Presentations!

Prior to the Culture Night that evening, my mom and I were eager to attend the General Assembly to see the report by Loretta Tuell, Majority Staff Director and Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The Congressional Messages report featured an update about the Native CLASS Act, which seeks to improve Indian Education Nationwide among other important topics. Even with my knowledge as a college student, it was all I could do to keep up during the Q&A. The diversity of issues in Indian Country will always continue to boggle and turn my mind inside out! I met Tuell at UNITY this last summer and she was the one who made the report about why it’s wrong to associate Osama Bin Laden with Geronimo, and that’s the same report that went viral on facebook.  

Getting into the afternoon, my mom and I decided to check out some of the subcommittee meetings. I was desperate to see what Tribal leaders were doing in Indian Country pertaining to education in particular. Knowledge, be it Western, or Indigenous, or even from a movie, is something that I’m passionate about and something I struggle with every day as a college student. I awestruck by a presentation by the Chickasaw Nation and what they were doing to encourage their college students to come back to work for the tribe. Although I’m not Chickasaw, it was empowering for me as a college student to see how our Indian people are taking care of our post-graduates. J

Delicious delights!

My mom and I ran around some more, peeking in on various other meetings. I can’t describe how exciting it all was, to see so many beautiful things happening all at once, and being around so many passionate and strong leaders. We ended the day with a firm hope and belief in a more positive future...

…and then we got ready for the Culture Night an hour later.  

NCAI Day 2: Halloween Native Vote! Event

I never would have thought of having a voting event with an awesome Halloween Party.


Obviously I knew the Conference would be taking place during Halloween, but I didn't pay much attention to the idea of it, until it happened. It was in conjunction with Native Vote! an organization that gave a presentation that very day. Native Vote! seeks to get all of Indian Country to get out the Native vote in the coming elections. But getting young people involved is a key way to 


For more information on Native Vote! 2012


As part of their Native Vote! 2012 campaign, there was a free photo booth! There were costumes everywhere! Along with the awesome Halloween treats and candy apples, were chicken skewers, chocolates and punch. The dance featured an array of classic rock hits to 80's pop, to Michael Jackson's 'Thriller.' Winners of the Costume Contest were a couple who came as Pop Eye and Olive. 


Many of the youth came as well, (I went as Catwoman) and I spent my time meeting and greeting. There were kids dressed as Superman, the Flintstones, even a tiny tot came dressed as a smurf! The lighting wasn't the best for my puny camera, and the following pic was the clearest shot I came out with:

Me and my old friend Tyson Johnston

Day 2 at NCAI: Color Guard, Youth Commission and Halloween! =D

The first day of NCAI got us off to a great start! Bright and early, it’s important to arrive on time, and we planned to be there for the National Prayer Breakfast, as we had purchased tickets. However, our morning was going to go in a way I hadn’t at all expected. It went way better.

We entered the hall, waving at a few councilmen. Among the first people I saw were my Aunt, and my Pusha—my grandpa on my Dad's side—Joe Jay Pinkham Jr. She was in a whirl, trying to get his moccasins on and trying to figure out his place in the Color Guard. My Pusha had served in the Korean War, and he was one of the first Native American Staff Gunner Sergeants. He served 50 years on the Yakama Nation General Council, where he spent his life creating and implementing programs for our Native Veterans. But he'd always been Pusha to me, so I was rather eager to see him in a new element. 

Photo: Courtesy of Jeremy Wade Shockley of the Southern Ute Drum Newsletter

Turns out, he got more attention than I did! Lol, that's saying something as I was wearing a crown, but it was all good. So many people knew who he was, it made me very proud to see just how many lives he'd impacted and how much he made a difference. A lesson for those of you still in high school and younger; learn about what your grandparents, your Elders did for your people. Seeing how our relations all over Indian country kick butt in court and in the White House, and knowing that I was related to this strong person, was really empowering and strengthening. I'm just a kid in college still trying to understand it all! It's such a special and rare gift, my Pusha's 84 now, and my only regret is that I didn't learn it sooner. 

To further my surprise, I was able to escort him in the Color Guard! This was a special honor for me to stand with these strong Native men who have served our country. (Out of all the demographics, Native people have the highest percentage of volunteers in our population.) As I visited with our Yakama Warriors, my friends Tracy Rector and Lou Karsen from Longhouse Media scurried about finding the right angles and requesting interviews. Later I got the chance to assist them in interviewing, and they even interviewed me! It was a very exciting morning, and the day wasn't even over yet. 

Afterwards, my Mom and I scrambled to get to the Youth Commission meeting. Along the way, we ran into Alex Alvarez, aka this year's Miss Shoshone-Bannock! We had met a few days ago at the 42nd Annual National Indian Education Association Convention in Albuquerque NM, so our parting was short-lived.  Together we all headed over. 

The Youth Commission of NCAI is relatively new addition to the Conference; it was established in the 1997 when the Conference was held in Juneau AL, through Resolution #JNU-97-003.

NCAI as a whole is a Conference for Tribal Leaders to make legislation about Tribal issues, such as education, health care, or on other legislation being debated about in the White House, like in the United States' Congress. When NCAI passes legislation, it means that all Tribes associated with NCAI are in favor of a specific issue or topic. It carries a lot of weight to other political leaders in the country. So, having a space at the table and being part of these meetings is very meaningful which is why it’s important that we as Native kids are involved.

Getting youth involved in this Commission is an ongoing process but this year was the highest turnout yet! From what I heard, attendance doubled since the previous year. Admittedly NCAI is during the week, so it’s probably quite difficult to make time to attend the conference. In our workshops, we introduced ourselves (at least 30 kids showed up!), discussed Robert’s Rules of Order (ie “Will all those who are in favor say Aye?”), and the importance of Native Vote campaign.

Throughout our time, I caught up with Tyson Johnston, a good friend of mine from UW (he was President of the First Nations club) and he’s now serving as Quinault Tribal Councilman, and Co-Vice President of the Youth Commission. Here’s the message: get involved in any way you can! It’ll prepare you for leadership roles in the future!

For myself, I was never involved in ASB, or even UNITY (United National Indian Tribal Youth-a national native student Congress). At the University of Washington, I’ve been involved with the ASUW (college level ASB) Student Senate, and was the Director of the American Indian Student Commission. So, I didn’t learn much about student government until after high school Both these organizations help prepare Native kids in writing legislation, leadership, and you get to learn a LOT about politics and tribal government. 

Day 1, Introducing the 68th Annual National Congress of American Indians!!!!

I had been waiting all year to go to the National Congress of American Indians. I'd been waiting a long time. Ever since I was in high school and first heard of NCAI, I've wanted to go. Tribal leaders, Councilmen, (Councilwomen), Chairs, and Congressmen attend this conference every year to discuss important issues in Indian Country. There are workshops, on sovereignty, education, and legislation and resolution discussions. People as young as high school aged, (I even saw a few little ones running around), all the way to the elders who are honored at the Elders Luncheon. But in all the times I imagined going, I never thought I'd be going as a representing royalty!! 

It was an incredible week of networking, learning, and sitting in on what appeared to be the “grown-up version” of the Student Senate I’m so used of here at University of Washington. Our trip to Portland Oregon for this year's National Congress of American Indians 68^th Annual Convention began the night before as my mom and I frantically packed for the week-long venture. 


Some important issues I was looking forward to; attending the Youth Commission Meetings, my good friend Tyson Johnston of the Quinault Tribal Council is a Co-Vice President and he's been a great mentor and friend to me since our time together here at the University of Washington. Also, I've been yearning to learn more about the Native CLASS Act, legislation that would improve Indian Education nationwide, something that is important for any kid going to class, whether it's at elementary, or high school. Even in light of the conferences I've attended, I was still a little intimidated and unsure of what to expect.

We arrived late Sunday afternoon, just in time for the Welcome Reception. After checking in at the hotel downtown we headed over to the Oregon Convention Center. The building was dazzling and spacious. A large canoe was out in front in the main hallway, and it was more than appropriate for the diversity of Tribal representatives that would be attending throughout the week. The Reception, like the General Assembly, was held in the dimly lit Portland Ballroom. 

It’s important at Tribal Gatherings that we recognize our people and adhere to traditional protocols. Thus, during the Reception, there was a welcoming program and presentations by Oregon and Washington state tribal leaders, introducing people through powerpoint, films, and speakers, to the history and culture of their individual Tribes and Nations. Throughout the Reception I got the chance to meet and greet a few friends from the National Indian Education Association (our parting from the 42nd NIEA Convention a few days before, was short-lived), Longhouse Media (they would be documenting the whole conference), and a few Tribal Councilmen from Ute Mountain, my own Yakama Nation, and Makah Tribal Council. Even my professor, Charlotte Cote, from University of Washington was there. 

So far, so good. It was even more upscale then I expected and seeing so many Tribal leaders from all across the country, was very satisfying. I'm majoring in American Indian Studies and would say my knowledge is a little decent, but I was thirsting to learn more.


After the evening, my mom and I took the “scenic route” while giving some friends, Mary Kim Titla among them, from San Carlos Apache a ride back home. We drove one way, drove the next, my mom and I finally understood the magnets at the Airport that had read, "Keep Portland Weird!" Though it was a minor setback, we got to know each other and we enjoyed the night lights from the City of Roses. We went to bed brimming with excitement for the next day.


Learn more about the National Congress of American Indians at: http://www.ncai.org/

Honoring our Veteran's at Camp Chapparal

I was invited by our Veterans Program to attend their annual Veteran’s Camp at Camp Chapparal. It’s very meaningful for my family and I that I attend because my Pusha (grandfather on my dad’s side) was a Master Gunner Sergeant in the Korean War; he was one of the first Native Americans to hold rank over white soldiers. His work with our Tribe and with Indian Country has been dedicated to honoring our warriors who fight to protect our families, culture and way of life. This Veteran’s Camp is part of his legacy and the legacy of the way we honor our warriors. At this camp, veterans from all over the country would also be attending, and many of them are non-native. But in spite of this, they are joined together in their journey for healing. There are cultural aspects to the week-long camp session; Prayer, Traditional Sweats, and Talking Circles. Because of the diverse veterans in attendance, I was there to share with them a bit of Yakama.

 I had the wonderful honor of performing the Welcome Dance. It’s a social dance, performed only by women. It’s symbolic of welcoming family by the setting out of a large feast or gathering. Young girls learn about this dance, I myself learned it at a young age. This dance, I explained demonstrated how connected Indian tribes were to each other, politically, economically and culturally because we Yakamas actually received this dance from the Tulalip Tribes. There was already strong trade and cross cultural exchange between tribes, even before white contact. (Another example comes from the Makah who have a war song they recieved from the Yakama.) I explained that it’s important that when dances and songs are sung that we acknowledge their origin and maintain protocol when sharing them. This is how we respect and honor the reasons for why they are given, and pass them onto our children.

I was honored to be part of this camp, to be in the presence of so many men and women, warriors, from all over who were visiting our land to find healing and the community support they deserve. Our veterans sacrifice so much, for their families, for their country, for everyone. I'd like to thank the Veterans Program and Warriors Association for allowing me to share the culture and lives of the people they’ve helped to protect. It was a very special blessing to me.

Indigenous Days at the Seattle Center!

A big thank you to Marc Taylor of the Seattle Indian Health Board who invited me to participate in this year’s 2^nd Annual Indigenous Cultures Day in Seattle. This year, it was held outside right next to the fountain! What made it very special for me, was that my 3 younger nieces; Kyra, Karissa, Kenita,  and 2 cousins; Cat and Aspen, all came over and got to participate in the event with me!

For the few days leading up the event, we practiced the Swan Dance, and the Welcome Dance together. These are very special, old, social dances that are performed by girls. Of course, growing up on the Reservation, my nieces and cousins had learned them and practiced them before, but never in front of such a large and diverse audience! My family and I wanted them to feel confident in what they were doing. Also, we hadn’t really gotten the chance to hang out with each other, since we live here in Seattle. So, participating in this event really brought our family closer together.

At the event, we performed in the morning, and again in the afternoon. During my presentation, I handed them the microphone and had them say their names and what tribe they were. Of course, they’re all Yakama, so I wanted to make sure it wasn’t too scary for them. I was surprised when my youngest niece, Kenita, confidently joined me on stage the second time on the along with her older cousin Kyra. The second time, it was at the invitation of last year’s Miss Yakama Nation, Carmen Selam and her brother Eric who was serving as National Indian Days Warrior. 

Whispering to Kenita on stage. 

Throughout the day, I got to visit and shake hands with the various Native vendors who were tabling. Our family was tabling and selling Fry Bread as a fundraiser. The sun came out off and on, and I got to enjoy the other performances that were given. It’s honor for me to be Miss Yakama Nation, and I’m just glad that I got to bring my little cousins and nieces along for the ride. 

Kyra, Aspec, Cat, Kenita, me, and Karissa!! Nice job ladies!
(photo courtesy of Daniella Pawl)

Happy Camping!

I think it’s safe to say that every kid who grew up on the Yakama Reservation has heard of or been to Camp Chaparral, the famed summer getaway for our Native youth. I myself have fond memories of my childhood where my brother and I drove away on the big school bus that came to pick up kids at the beginning of the week. I remember how we made dream catchers, I even weaved my first basket up there (admittedly, it was key chain size, but hey)! I always had fun meeting my cousins and cooling off in the icy river. Once, we went fishing and I took a picture of the pint size trout I managed to catch. (There was even a salamander all the kids tried to poke at!) It has a lot of happy memories and that history stretches even further back to my parent’s time, when the place was brand new. Although it was long ago, my memories of it still feel vivid and I enjoy knowing that there are still people who go up there and volunteer as staff to look after our young ones and make sure they have that safe zone. It is of course drug and alcohol free and this is really important that our youth know that that’s a priority.

At the Open House, there was a Mini-Powwow, led by an all-youth drum. There was even a switch dance which featured the staff and student volunteers, one of them was Sheila Pierce, my old friend from Wapato High School. She and the other staff worked tirelessly all summer to keep the camp running spick and span. Stephen Salam was in charge this year, and during the lunch I got to catch up with him about school and UW Powwow. He too is an Alum of University of Washington, he and my older brother were both part of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society chapter at UW. I was super excited when he invited me to come down to the Open House. It was a great day catching up with folks and seeing how my childhood playground is still being played in. 

Roosevelt Powwow

After Seafair on Saturday, my family and I drove across the state to attend Roosevelt Powwow by the Columbia River. We were invited to go there by our Tribal Councilman Sam Jim Jr, as his family helps put it on every year. Unlike Seattle, which had rained, Roosevelt was dry and hot. Nonetheless, there were of course a lot of Yakamas there, and Miss Warm Springs showed up as well! It was great seeing her and her dad again. (We did hear an announcement for Roosevelt Powwow at Pi-Ume-Sha.) Although it was a smaller Powwow, we had fun with the closer community—shaking hands of course, getting to know the new Miss City of Roses (Delta Park Powwow Queen) and hanging out with some old friends. Of course my mom bought raffle tickets…to no avail. But thankfully there were a few kids walking around selling dried fish, more people were selling popcorn, and we munched a bit while chatting with a family friend and her husband. It was nice just being able to enjoy the weather and watch the river. It is traditional land after all…

Seafair in Seattle!!

I was very eager to attend this year’s Seafair Powwow, I lived in Seattle, and many of my city friends would be there so I’d finally be able to share with them a little piece of Yakama. When I was in high school, I had volunteered at this Powwow. It’s held at the United Indians Daybreak Star Cultural Center which was established by Bernie White Bear in the 60’s to be a cultural center for the Native American community here in Seattle. Every summer they have the Seafair Powwow on their grounds—with a perfect view of the ocean. In my down time at the Powwow, I tabled with Clear Sky’s booth. My dad and I had also received gifts to hand out to promote Yakama Nation Land Enterprise: Pickled Asparagus! It tastes really good and I enjoy having something to give out to people.

With my good friend Tracy Rector of Longhouse Media! 

A few really special things happened at this Powwow; I was interviewed by KOMO 4 News, and my aunt came by with a new dress for me! While tabling, later in the afternoon, various news anchors were dropping by filming and checking out the Powwow—it’s one of the bigger events in Seattle after all! While tabling, I was being interviewed by another independent online news group, when another seemingly nondescript filmmaker showed up, although he had a larger camera. It was quick, but I was honored that he came over to ask me! We gave him some asparagus and he told us to check it out on the 11 o’clock news later that night. Later, my aunt Sophie came by with a brand new, pink and black southern style dress! I was in awe at its beauty! It was good that I was wearing my pink wingdress for the afternoon because it matched perfectly! She made it Southern style to honor my mom who is Southern Cheyenne. I was taught that when an elder makes you something and asks you to wear it, you honor their gift by wearing it.

Fellow Royalties!

The Powwow was quite a blur, as we went from one booth to the next meeting and greeting vendors, old friends, paused to say hi to the committee, and my friend Kaleena Marchand, who works with United Tribes to put on the Powwow. She’s an alum of the First Nations @ UW club and has more than enough experience. We visited with our friends Fern Renville and Martha Brice, directors of Red Eagle Soaring, a Native American Theater Group here in Seattle. I mingled with the other royalties; our own Veteran’s Day Queen of Yakama, the Puyallup Queens, along with the 2010-2011 Miss Shoshone Bannock! (Her outgoing Powwow was to be held in a few more weeks.) We round danced and socialized way past our original scheduled time. We were exhausted when we came home that night, I fell asleep the second I hit the couch…only be forced to wake minutes later to watch my interview on KOMO 4 News. It was thrilling and my last words were, “Yeah that was cool,” before collapsing a few seconds after it was done. Lol, it was totally worth it. 

Toppenish 4th of July Parade!

Being the Toppenish 4^th of July Parade was very special, mostly because I had gone to that Parade nearly half my life, and I always wanted to be in it. It’s one of the biggest events in the small town, and I was looking forward to participating in it. As we pulled up to the green lawn to park our car, horses, city floats, and random cars began to show up. I got the very special chance to mingle with Miss Granger and her court. My younger twin cousins showed up an hour later and we visited while dividing candy and arranging the shawls. Just a few minutes before the Parade started, a familiar van pulled up and out jumped Katrina Black Wolf, our Jr Miss Yakama Nation! We were pleasantly startled as she asked if she could join us in the Parade. I was just grateful to have someone to talk to during the long drive through town. So we readjusted the shawls and she climbed aboard.

Getting our smiles on!

All in all, it was really fun waving and smiling. It was also pretty good too that we were in it together as we were both representing the Yakama Nation. Our friends from the Powwow Committee were a few cars ahead of us, Ida and Starla Moses-Hyipeer. Their younger brother Cato, was Veteran’s Day Warrior and they had their own float. We all visited and chatted afterward. I was glad to have gone through that with Katrina, I’m really glad we get along.

A Wildhorse Weekend!

There were a lot of things that were going this weekend; I had a meeting with the Yakama Nation Youth Council, I made an appearance at the Toppenish Powwow, and then our family drove all the way to Pendleton OR to make it for Wildhorse Casino Powwow with the Umatilla’s. Fourth of July was coming up so we would have to be back in time for Toppenish Parade, lol, it was kind of grueling, but such is the life of a traveling Royalty, and it’s always worth it. :) 

At Wildhorse, it was very windy, sunny and dry. But it’s a big Powwow, and that’s a lot of hands to shake. It certainly made standing in Grand Entry a lot fun as there were lots of Royalty to meet and talk with. Lol, thankfully, my brothers joined me and helped me keep track of where to go. We had a good time catching up with Jr. Miss Yakama Nation, and with some old friends from Wapato. The unanticipated highlight of the Powwow, much to everyone’s surprise, was when the wind suddenly burst up and carried a giant canopy/party tent with it! It made everyone laugh. I had a great time visiting with the ladies sitting next to us; whom kindly offered to share their tent and cold water with my family. 

"Let's Celebrate!" Powwow with the Warm Springs

Attending the Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Days Powwow in Warm Springs Oregon, was very important and special to me. This year’s Miss Warm Springs, had come up to Yakama Nation Treaty Days Powwow and was there at the Pageant when I was crowned. She’s a strong leader for her people, and she offered very kindly to give our family room to stay at her family’s house! We had such a wonderful time staying at her Ulla’s (grandma on her dad’s side) house. During our stay, I learned that our Ulla’s are actually good friends! Our grandparents worked together to establish the Veteran’s Programs for Indian Country nationwide. It was such a warm feeling talking with Charlotte (her Ulla) and hearing her stories about the Warm Springs and all the amazing things she did in her life.

Sister Tribes!

Throughout the Powwow, Tamera and I had a great time together as well. I got acquainted with her court, as we stood in line to welcome the people. We had a great time tag-teaming the crowd as we strategized and coordinated shaking hands with the tumultuous crowd. It had been a few year since I’ve attended Pi-Ume-Sha and I thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality and seeing my parents reunite with old friends and introduce me to them. The Powwow highlight for me was watching the Team Women’s Shell dance. It was close, and I got to see Tamera’s team face off against an older women’s team (no pun intended). The other team won by just a hair! It was all good though, our other friend, Katrina Walsey was with them and we congratulated them on their win. That night Tamera and I danced Exhibition and had fun as her dad, Captain, loudly announced our motives (he was MC’ing) as we sneaked off stage for the judging.

Exhibition dancing with past and present royalty.

Lol in short…Pi-Ume-Sha, or "Let's Celebrate" definitely lived up to its reputation. :)

Crazy pretty clouds.

Honoring our Graduates with Clear Sky Native Youth Council

I live in Seattle, and for the past 3 years, my family and I have been involved in the Seattle Clear Sky Native Youth Council, a youth tutoring/cultural program for Native students here in Seattle. We do tutoring, provide mentoring for these students, who come from different schools from across Seattle Public School District. I graduated from the Seattle Public School District and it was hard for me culturally because I had just moved from Yakama Reservation and that transition was like jumping into cold water. But, now I’m a student at University of Washington and I want to make sure that I’m giving back to other kids who are struggling through high school in a city where they’re just a number. One of our biggest events is our “Honoring our Graduates” ceremony at the end of the school year where we invite various students to come and be recognized for their achievements through another year of school.

           

Hooray for our youth!!

It was a pleasant shock when Sarah Sense-Wilson, the head parent and good family friend to us, approached me with the request the students had made for the Student Guest Speaker. We held our Graduation at the Indian Heritage High School, a school that has a history of serving Native students—the campus buildings are covered in beautiful paintings and murals that establish a strong Native presence. I was humbled and excited for this opportunity because education is something I’m very passionate about and I know it’s a hard road for our Native students; they have to walk in two worlds and bring the best part of who they are back and forth. But also, I had just been crowned Miss Yakama Nation, so this was one of my first ‘gigs’ so to speak.

Public Speaking

It made me feel very proud and excited to see so many kids come to be recognized. My friend Angelo Baca brought his students from Big Sky High School, and kids from all corners of Seattle from middle school to high school were there. We had a luncheon, and our other speakers included “NDN’s for Justice” Millie Kennedy and her protégé my friend Patricia Allen. Our elder Alice Too said a few words of course, while Robert Fredricksen aka Ravenspeaker, MC’d the event.

As the presenters, we were gifted with a print!

I’m very passionate about teaching our kids that they can use their heritage and culture to make a difference in the world. Knowing who I am as a Yakama is what got me through my identity issues in high school, and I know there’s so much to keep learning and discovering about myself and my people. Native kids struggle with their identity in so many ways, and when we can come together to celebrate what our young ones have done, it’s good medicine that rubs off on us. 

Chief Joseph Warriors & Memorial Powwow!!

Since the early 70’s and late 80’s, the descendants of the Chief Joseph have been holding a Powwow to commemorate and honor the sacrifice of their ancestors. I personally also have Nee-Mi-Poo relations and it was very important to my family that we be in attendance at this Powwow to not only to respect the historical alliance between the Palouse and the Nee-Mi-Poo, but to honor our family and relations in Nez Perce country.

Attending this Powwow was a very special event. I was very excited to hear what was going to be shared and there was reconnecting with old family members and many introductions. The community spoke a lot about the history of the Nez Perce Wars and the historic “Run” they had with the United States government. This was mostly refreshing because for once I got to hear the history from the Nee-Mi-Poo themselves and not a biased textbook or film. The focus of the Powwow was on commemorating the sacrifice and challenges of our ancestors and taking that with us into the future. A giveaway from the descendents of Chief Joseph was the highlight of the evening. As the only representing royalty, there was a lot of gratitude from the community for my attendance. I was asked to speak and I expressed very sincerely my appreciation for being there to represent the Yakama Nation and I encouraged the young ones to pay attention to what was being said that evening. I exhorted them that the schools will try to paint a different history but that you must know who you are and that knowledge will give you strength to overcome adversity and the lies some non-natives would have us believe about ourselves.

The following morning, there was a brunch held at the Community Center prior to Grand Entry and it was my pleasure to shake hands with the early risers. There was a Wa’Shut Song sang, and a prayer held. To my surprise, my aunt Sophia Hunt, requested that I wear a dress that her daughter ,Ida, had been working on for her senior project in high school. It was a very beautiful dentalium shell dress and I wore it proudly. I gave my card to a woman who worked with the Head Start Program for the Nez Perce. I was surprised later, when the MC announced that a representative from Yakama had not attended their Powwow in some time and that they wanted to honor me. I was given a shawl and thanked for my words the previous night.