Serving Indigenous Peoples and Our Friends Since 1981 Volume XXIX Number 4 Friday, March 23, 2012
Hozhoni Days Schedule! Hozhoni Days Schedule March 22, 2012 – Center of Southwest Studies Lyceum – 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. William Mendoza, Executive Director, White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education. Presentation: Education Opportunities for all American Indian and Alaska Native Students. (Sponsored by: John & Sophie Ottens Foundation, Wanbli Ota Student Organization and the Native American Center at Fort Lewis College)
Members of the Psychology 402 “Psychology Practice: Topics” course enthusiastically responded to queries about their views of the class.
FLC Psychology Class -
Compassion Overpowers Biased Attitudes By Noel Altaha FLC students are taking a new psychology class that encourages discussion of stereotypes and bias. The psychology department offers a relatively new course that challenges students to explore psychological research and theory around stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination. Psyc 402 taught by Dr. Kraus offers elements of compassion, particularly to oneself. Dr. Kraus shared why she teaches both stereotypes and compassion, “I have been very interested in compassion which seems to me to be the opposite side of prejudice. Studying when we are kind and loving towards others instead of mean or hateful seems to bring me full circle in my academic work.” Her dissertation work was on how the brain organizes and uses stereotypes to categorize people. Her goals in this course is to help students learn more about themselves, develop compassion of self and others and to provide tools they could use to make change. Psychology 402 is an applied or “practice psychology” upper division four-credit course offered to all majors. A large component of the course entails Code Red/Anti-Defamation League training. Students become trained facilitators for prejudice reduction programs on campus. According to the FLC website, Code Red workshops emphasize recognizing one’s own biases, understanding the experience of discrimination, and actively working toward a more respectful environment. Dr. Kraus stated, “Code Red is the action piece of my interest in how we treat others. I became part of Code Red to use what I study to make a difference in my community and to make FLC a better, more welcoming place.” Christopher Taylor, Dominique Tso, Manuelito “Chief” Garbiso, and Ergil Vallo are currently taking
this course and shared their experiences thus far in the semester. Taylor, Tso and Garbiso met together for their interview. Chris Taylor, a psychology major in his Junior year, stated one reason for taking this class was to further assist him in the field of counseling, particularly in multicultural psychology. For him, this class has created an awareness of his own biases and challenging them by discussing diversity in an effective manner. The “compassion” piece also interests Taylor. How do you show self-compassion? Time passes before Taylor thoughtfully answered, “I make time to do calm, nice things for myself. Swimming or stretching, taking care of myself makes me feel good.” After some hesitation Dominique Tso answers with a smile, “I have a vague idea but [I’m] still discovering.” Dominique Tso, a Junior majoring in psychology is from the Dine (Navajo) Nation. Tso stated her reason for taking this course was out of curiosity and to become aware of her own biases as well. “I wanted to learn how to handle [issues] for myself; I don’t want to be scared,” says Tso. Ergil Vallo, a Senior, and a sociology major is from Acoma Pueblo. Vallo was first interested in this class because it was a controversial topic, “Talking about racism and discrimination is something we not comfortable doing.” He added, “The most challenging part is to be honest and open. This class challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and be vulnerable.” Manuelito “Chief” Garbiso, a Junior and a psychology major is Dine (Navajo) and said he took the class after getting the recommendation of another psychology professor. “I took Positive Psychology and my professor knew my personality, so this class was recommended. I highly recommend both cours-
March 26, 2012 – Native American Center – 5:30 p.m. Introduction of Pageant Guest: Miss Indian World, Marjorie Tahbone, Alaskan Native. Ms. Hozhoni Pageant Meet and Greet the contestants. Short question and answer to follow the Meet and Greet. March 27, 2012 – Student Union/Vallecito Room – 5:30 p.m. Ms. Hozhoni contestants present Native Food. March 28, 2012 – Student Union/ Ballroom – 6:00 p.m. Ms. Hozhoni Contestants present Traditional and Modern Talents March 29, 2012 – Noble Hall Room 125 – 5:30 p.m. Smokin’ Fish – “Smokin’ Fish is more than preparing tradition smokes salmon,” explains Luke GriswoldTergis, the film producer, co-director and writer. “We see traditional food as a connection with history and with the land, as well as a pillar that support living Indigenous culture.” March 30 and 31, 2012 – “48th Annual Hozhoni Days Powwow” Gourd Dance – Friday 6 p.m. / Saturday 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Grand Entries – Friday 7 p.m. / Saturday 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Crowning of the 2012-13 Ms. Hozhoni after evening Grand Entry
Please See “Compassion,” p. 2
Kony 2012 Fraud? March Powwows.............3
NAIS Faculty Search......5
Spring Fitness Denver Scores Manning..7
Spring Awakens..............2
New Game Reviewed John Carter Film............4
Midterm Blues? Find Help on Campus.....6
Mendoza Stops In Aronilth Visits FLC........8
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inside issue
March 23, 2012
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Intertribal News
IN Student Editorial The Intertribal News welcomes the comments of its readers. If you would like to express your opinions, please write us a letter. All letters must include the name and contact information of the author. Letters may be edited for length and journalistic concerns.
Spring is actually visible on campus now! Here’s one of the many blossoms on crab apple trees near the College Chapel.
Spring Time: Awakening of Animal Relatives By Zach Hooper Times have greatly changed the Navajo people from nomadic hunters to self-sufficient farmers, but the respect and need for animals is still strong regardless if the animals are domesticated or wild. Medicines, fetishes, art, and storytelling, ceremonies, and much more are still connected to animals. Animals play an important role to the Navajo people besides being just food. Yet the lifestyle of the Navajo people is changing with the modern world. This change is affecting people’s sense of respect and sacredness of animals. Farming, raising livestock, and fast food are replacing hunting practices. Hunting is what connected the Navajo people to animals through stories, practices, relationships, and sacredness. For many people across the world, myth and stories are the foundation of complex thinking, philosophy, creativity, and establishing relationships with all beings. Myths and stories tell us how to see and interact in the world. The Navajo people incorporate stories into their way of life; stories that are heard in ceremonies and taboos and explain the creation of all things. According to Jerrold E. Levy, author of In the Beginning: The Navajo Genesis, the first beings were insects, spirits, and animals in indefinite forms, meaning that the animals we see today are not the same as the ones before because of certain changes and transformations as they progressed into the upper worlds. Insects characters are important throughout the Navajo mythology and ceremonies; unforgettable characters like Big Fly, Cicada, the Ant People, Grasshopper, the Ripener, and the small but powerful Lice in coyote stories. An example is the Upwardreaching ceremony having fourteen different kinds of insects in just one myth, according to Leland Wyman’s Red Antway of the Navaho. With the spring season coming, insects are the first to emerge from their sleep. In many stories, the Diyin Dine’e, Holy People,
are responsible for creating the game animals and also the etiquettes for hunting although many Navajos disagree on who specifically created the animals. Today, hunting for game and the ceremonies are declining because of many regulations, changes in lifestyle, and the dominating mass society. Despite the dimming of such practices, animals are still being respected perhaps more in the form of property for livestock. But remember what the fawn says in Navajo Hunter Tradition by Karl W. Luckert: If you do not make use of us properly, even in times when we are numerous, you will not see us anymore.
Compassion, From Page 1 es,” Garbiso says. Self-compassion to Garbiso consists of being accepting of one’s self and accomplishments. “I’m pretty hard on myself; it’s easier to [show compassion] to others than to myself,” he says. Both Taylor and Tso nod in agreement. Taylor chimed in, “acceptance is like gold,” while Tso added, “to help others and listen to others is [expressing] compassion. [Self-compassion can be] vulnerable when opening up.” Is racism an issue on campus? Tso hasn’t experienced any but she’s heard about issues. Garbiso stated, “It’s more from Natives, among tribes, with my name ‘Chief’ because it can be seen as disrespectful. We all have our things, but I look at the bigger picture and the bottom line is to be real with myself.” Ergil Vallo stated, “Racism and discrimination are behavioral components. I personally have not experienced racism [but] I do feel that I have experienced lots of stereotyping and discrimination while at the Fort. [Although], the Westboro Baptist Church tried to do their own protest against members of the LGTBQ Community,. [it] resulted in a Peace Rally which was beautiful, because I felt connected, students to one another.” Garbiso said, “If it wasn’t for compassion [piece in this class] I was going to quit school, but it reminded me who I am. This class has shifted that outlook on students and created unity. Just to be in class, there is sincerity, respect, and acknowledgement.” Self-compassion appears to be a struggle for Vallo because he feels guilt and shame when doing nice things for himself, “Being Native American, and coming from a traditional background, I was not used to putting my personal needs before other people, because growing up I was always told that you put other people’s needs before your own.” In his prayers it is for other individuals and creatures of this world, one’s enemies, friends, family, and then self. Yet Vallo also adds, “It is important to show selfcompassion, because it’s necessary in creating a sense of unconditional love for yourself and other people.” Code Red: http://www.fortlewis.edu/codered/Home.aspx
INTERTRIBAL NEWS A FORT LEWIS COLLEGE STUDENT PUBLICATION
Editors Noel Altaha Zach Hooper
Ryan Desautel DJ Seeds Taryn Yuzos
Reporters Kyle Arnold Tina Billie Sharilyn Browning Lloyd Padilla Sunshine Perry
Now on the Webat:
Traditions of many tribes acknowledge the changing seasons, notably in the ways people turn their attention to their spiritual responsibilities.
http://blogs.fortlewis.edu/intertribalnews/ Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rick Wheelock wheelock_r@fortlewis.edu The FLC Intertribal News is a publication of Fort Lewis College students. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Native American Center or of the College. The Intertribal News extends its special thanks to the John and Sophie Ottens Foundation, FLC Student Services, the Native American Center and the Department of SW Studies and American Indian Studies for their generous support. Any donation which would help us with our production costs is greatly appreciated!
March 23, 2012
Intertribal News
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Commentary - On-Line Video Controversy -
Kony 2012: Real or Another Phony Scam?
Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistence Army (LRA) a Ugandan guerilla war group, is the target of Jason Russell’s on-line expose’. By Sunshine Perry Most of you have recently watched the video that went viral within just a few days, “KONY 2012”. This completely popular video has been causing a great deal of controversy since it hit the internet on March 5. “This is a film and campaign by Invisible Children that aims to make Joseph Kony famous, not to celebrate him, but to raise support for his arrest and set a precedent for International Justice”, claims the actual KONY2012.com website. In this 30 minute online video the director, Jason Russell, starts off by hitting the viewers in their soft spot… the emotions. He does this by displaying horrific images of African children in pain, misery and despair. After showing these images and drawing people in he clearly states that, “Joseph Kony is the cause of all of this.” He takes the approach in “educating” viewers, through the eyes a former LRA child soldier, Jacob, but also through his son, Gareth who has no idea who Kony is. These two young boys play a big part in how Russell reaches his audience on an emotional level and pull them in, which in my opinion, is wrong. In the second part of the film emotions are cut and left out, this part of the film focuses on the expectations for them from the elite groups of people. The elite supporters of this cause/campaign range from popular artists to well-known politicians. In order to join this elite group of supporters and people trying to catch Kony, viewers are encouraged to purchase an “Action Kit”, then register the enclosed ID bracelet at the website their provided with. So after every “Action Kit” purchaser registers their ID bracelet online, then every “Action Kit” purchaser will be known, identified and easily be tracked with new “KONY” updates. I am sure all of this personal information and data will be collected and stored by the people in charge. They are even asked to contribute “a few dollars a month” to the TRI organization. This organizations main goal is aimed toward American military intervention in Uganda. This cleverly documented video was obviously aimed toward the youth of today by using its new technologies and state-of-the-art techniques. It uses emotion, irrational thoughts and superficial explanations to trick the well-meaning viewers that really do desire to make positive changes in the world, into actually support a campaign that will essentially start a huge war controlled by the elite. Many say this campaign is not really trying to eliminate the Lord’s Resistance Armies (LRA) child-soldiers but it is attempting to create a new, different kind of child-soldiers with the youth supporters they gain from this campaign.
Now that I have explained the video’s intended purposes, the controversy comes in. There is a huge group of skeptical internet users to begin with, doubts of the director’s credibility and rising questions about the Invisible Children’s use of the collected funds. Countless reply videos have been posted about the truth and validity of the messages being portrayed from the video. Russell says that the LRA leader Kony cannot be found or taken down yet there is an online YouTube video interviewing Kony and some of his followers. The Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi finally responded with his own video and tweets to the supporting celebrities. He says that people were given a “false impression” about the country. He also states that,” The Kony 2012 campaign fails to make one crucial point clear: Joseph Kony is not in Uganda.” He also went on to personally invite the celebrities involved to “visit our proud nation to see the peace that exists”; this does not help the campaign at all. Along with the Prime Ministers video there are also many other doubts people are having, including me. The Invisible Children Organization is being questioned on where their funds are going and to whom. Finally, the credibility of Jason Russell and the things he is claiming are the big issues. He states in the film, “The next 27 minutes are an experiment, but in order for it to work you have to pay attention,” this is the first sign that engages many critical thinkers’ minds and starts the doubting process. Many of the things that Russell is assuming and claiming can be questioned, and most can be contradicted. After the viral explosion of the KONY video, there was another video released that could do potential damage to the campaign he worked so hard on. Jason was filmed on the street corner in Southern California, naked, screaming obscenities and pounding on the ground. He was not charged with a crime but officials insist that he be admitted to a hospital for treatment. He was arrested by the San Diego Police for fondling himself while under the influence of a substance that is unknown and vandalizing vehicles. The Invisible Children CEO Ben Keesey stated that he was, “suffering from exhaustion, dehydration and malnutrition.” I admit, when I first watched the KONY 2012 video I was stuck, I was a little skeptical but when I listened to Russell’s’ innocent son and witnessed the horrid pictures I couldn’t help but feel bad. But after reading into and researching to ease my skepticism I found a world of views I never imagined to find. I do agree that Kony is an evil man, but I don’t think that using this video and propaganda to get publicity is the way to go. Using the past events and a tragedy of a group of people is degrading and you can clearly see how it makes them feel in their reaction video on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Clb6wekfOVo&f eature=related. There are obviously many different views and opinions about the truth and validity of this whole KONY 2012 campaign, you’ve read my thoughts, so go view it…. and decide for yourself. You can view the official KONY 2012 campaign video on YouTube to decide on your own.: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4MnpzG5Sqc
Mikala SunRhodes, 2011 Miss Denver March, demonstrates the beauty of traditional regalia.
March Begins Powwow Seasons! By Kyle Arnold March brings spring and plenty of powwows to go to Indian country one of these events is the 48th annual Ms. Hozhoni days, which has a long history at Fort Lewis College dating back to 1966 when the Shalako Indian Club first organized the event. Miss Hozhoni is Navajo word meaning “days of beauty.” The Ms. Hozhoni days is a three day contest consisting of public speaking, traditional food presentation, and traditional and modern talent performances. The title “Hozhoni Days” was the creation of Clyde Benally, who was asked by the deans of the college to help make the Shalako Club more active, Clyde Benally is known today as the”father of Hozhoni days. It can be argued that Ms. Hozhoni days might be the longest standing student led tradtion at Fort Lewis College and maybe even the oldest tradition at the Fort Lewis College. Ms. Hozhoni days event will be held on March 30-31 at the Fort Lewis College Gymnasim. Another long standing powwow in the Colorado area is that of 37th annual Denver March Powwow. The origins of the powwow go back to 1974 which was held at the Denver Indian Community Center and was originally entitled the Youth Enrichment powwow. The event started small at first being held at the community center but over the year the Powwow has grown bigger and bigger and this year it will be held at the Denver Coliseum March 23-25. This year Denver Powwow is supposed to be bigger and better then before will traditional and non-traditional dance groups and singers as well as the annual crowning of the Denver March Powwow Princess. For any more information regarding the Powwow’s please look at the links below. http://www.denvermarchpowwow.org/ https://www.fortlewis.edu/hozhoni-days-powwow/Home.aspx
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March 23, 2012
Intertribal News
Film Review -
John Carter is Out of This World
New Game Reveals “Native” Protagonist By DJ Seeds Looking for an adventurous/historical new game to play? Assassin’s Creed III might be the solution for all of your blood lust gaming needs! For those unfamiliar with the Assassin’s Creed series developed by the company Ubisoft, and often consists of a main character who sets out for one purpose, to kill, as an assassin does. Generally, the main character has a history or situation in which his actions become morally justified; but nonetheless, it remains a very violent and graphic video game. “As I’ve played in the other affiliated games, your character tends to perform surgically precise, brutal executions on antagonists,” says Austin Davis, a junior who is anticipating the new game’s release. So where then does a Native American fit into all of this? As most are aware, Western civilization has referred to Native Americans as ‘savages; for centuries in large part due to their encounters with tribes who probably knew how to wield a blade, tomahawk, spear, or bow and arrow. Well of course, the term ‘savage’ refers mainly to uncivilized people, and yet the negative connotations associated with the word including ‘barbaric’, ‘ferocious’, ‘fierce’, are often attributed to Native Americans. Naturally, these tags associate well with Assassin’s Creed III and who better to symbolize the face of violent behavior than Native Americans? According to GameInformer.com, “In the new game, the protagonist character you play is Connor, a half Mohawk half British man who takes up arms when white settlers attack his home in the colonial setting of the American Revolution”. Interesting enough, you also come across characters in the game who are of some importance during this era, such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. A gaming expert at IncGames released his thoughts on the game, “If you’re expected Assassin’s Creed III to extol the values of great American heroes like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, and
John Adams, you may want to think again.” As a teenager, you might have been drawn to the use of the pistol or tomahawk, but the storyline is apparently captivating if you’re interest involves a violent, historical video game. The question then becomes: is this portrayal another issue which Native Americans should rally against, or merely ignore? Of course this isn’t the first, and won’t be the last time that a Native American character is displayed as a savage (i.e. Turok video game developed back in the Nintendo 6 era, in which you’re a Native American hunting dinosaurs) but for youth, both native and non-native, media is the ultimate source of information via internet, television, or video games. As you impersonate a bloodthirsty savage seeking revenge on colonial settlers, does the idea of ‘playing Indian’ ever present itself to you? Do vivid images of Geronimo outfoxing the U.S. military and raiding villages with women and children appear? Assassin’s Creed III is set to release in October 2012 and is rumored to be the biggest sale of the Fall season. Will you be a ‘contributing factor’ or not?
By Zach Hooper Imagine a world where there are two moons, barren landscape, and the skies filled with gargantuan, solar-powered aircrafts that two great kingdoms wage war in. A world that is in danger of becoming a dead planet, a world that is called Barsoom or as we know it, Mars. The John Carter film, directed by Andrew Stanton, is packed with extraterrestrial imagination from the written works of Edgar Rice Burroughs. Combined with modern visual and special effects of cinematography, Burroughs’s John Carter and the planet Barsoom comes to life enriched with interesting characters that are out of this world. In the movie, John Carter (Taylor Kitsch), a Virginia ex-Confederate, must save not his world but a whole different planet from a devious plot by the mysterious Therns. Not to mention he gets some of the perks of being a hero like marrying Martian Dejah Thoris (Lynn Collins), super jumps from being in a lighter gravity, and a very fast dog-like companion named Woola. Disney has certainly created some amazing films over the years, many that would be considered pushing the envelope beyond the classical or fantastical films done in the past. John Carter fits within that category of “the sky is the limit” despite its recent flop, about a $200 million loss according to CBSNews. But Rotten Tomatoes has given the film a 51% critic rating and a 71% audience rating. If you’re into sci-fi or just want to see something different, check out John Carter with the kids at your local theater (be advised it’s PG-13) and doesn’t hurt to read the books, too.
He may not save the world, but John Carter (Taylor Kitsch) just might save Mars - We’ll see!
March 23, 2012
Intertribal News
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NAIS Candidates Arrive for Interviews By DJ Seeds The candidate selection process among the four remaining candidates is going well as they have already made their way to Fort Lewis College! Dr. Kristina Jacobsen was the first to arrive on campus, Tuesday, March 13th and had lunch with Dr. Kathleen Fine-Dare, professor of anthropology and member of the search committee in hiring new faculty. Soon after, Dr. Jacobsen visited the Native American Center where she was greeted with several welcomes and smiling faces from students and faculty alike. The following day among her many stops, Dr. Jacobsen met with Dr. Linda Schott, Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences as well as other administration, and had lunch with several students in the Center of Southwest Studies Conference room. Her teaching demonstration then began in Dr. Boxer’s Introduction to Native American and Indigenous Studies class where her presentation was entitled, “Stereotypes of American Indians in Music and Popular Culture.” Dr. Jacobsen eloquently identified and elaborated on the significance of Native American stereotypes in mass media through examples such as the Florida State ‘war chant’ and Tim McGraw’s ‘Indian Outlaw’ which kept the class buzzing with insight. Dr. Jacobsen received her B.A. in American Indian History and Flute Performance at the University of Vermont. She received an M.A. in ethnomusicology at Arizona State University in 2003 as well as another M.A. in cultural anthropology at Duke University where she continued to her Ph.D. in cultural anthropology. She is currently defending her dissertation entitled, “Navajo Voices: Country Music and the Politics of Language and Belonging.” The next candidate, Dr. Natchee Barnd, met with faculty and students on Friday, March 16th and participated in a similar routine of meeting administrators, having lunch with students, and performing a teaching demonstration. Dr. Barnd’s presentation focused on the term “agency” and its impact, which involves native people acting on their own behalf. For context and definition purposes, agency is the ability of individuals or groups to make choices and perform actions. He then had the class identify examples of agency within Fort Lewis’ timeline which was both interesting and perceptive. Dr. Barnd’s prestigious education record includes a B.A. in Multicultural Studies and Philosophy with a
Dr. Kristina Jacobsen gained her degree in Cultural Anthropology at Duke University.
minor in Native American Studies from Sonoma State University in 1997. He then received his M.A. in American Indian Studies from UC Los Angeles in 1999. Dr. Barnd then went to UC San Diego where he received his M.A. in Ethnic Studies in 2001 then his Ph.D in 2008. His manuscript currently under review by Oregon State University Press and First Peoples’ Initiative is entitled, “Inhabiting Indianness: The Production of Colonial and Postcolonial Geographies.” The third appearance on campus Monday, March 19th was made by Dr. Mascha Gemein. She met with Dr. Linda Schott who received many guests in the past week, Darren Mathews, the Director of Human Resources, and Fort Lewis’ Provost, Dr. Barbara Morris. Dr. Gemein then had a meet and greet at the Native American Center, followed by a campus tour, then lunch at the Center of Southwest Studies with several students. After lunch, Dr. Gemein performed her teaching demonstration titled, “Ontology and the Political Arena,” where ontology refers to the study of
the nature or essence of being and reality. In her astute teaching session, the class was asked to use ontology as a conceptual tool to examine elements of an indigenous paradigm. Needless to say, her teaching demonstration was both insightful and fascinating for the many students in attendance. Dr. Gemein studied and received her M.A. at Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat in Bonn, Germany with her master’s thesis titled, “Ella Cara Deloria’s Waterlily: Its Background and Interdisciplinary Significance.” She then attended the University of Arizona and enrolled in the American Indian Studies program to receive her Ph.D status. Our very final candidate appearance took place on Wednesday, March 21st with Dr. Nichlas Emmons’ arrival upon the final deadline of this newspaper’s edition. Dr. Emmons is in the process of defending his dissertation (ABD) so for now it’s only Mr. Emmons, but he will soon receive his doctoral status upon further review. He met with students at the Native American center Wednesday morning and proceeded into lunch as well as in-depth dialogue with students about the environmental aspects he would like to bring to the NAIS program. Afterwards, he conducted his teacher demonstration titled, “Native Americans and Native Lands,” which emphasized the importance of land to all Native Americans as well as identified contemporary issues involving land such as lack of access to sacred sites and the trust relationship between the federal government and tribes. Dr. Emmons is affiliated with the Shawnee (Kispoko) tribe and received his B.A, M.A, and Ph.D at Ball State University in Political Science and Environmental Studies with a Native American Studies concentration. Now that the four candidates have made their visit, the selection process begins. Dr. Boxer described the selection process as, “Exciting but also exhausting. There are a lot of behind the scene processes that most people don’t see, but it’s absolutely pivotal to select someone to fill the position that Dr. Wheelock leaves.” Dr. Boxer and the search committee have quite the decision to make on who the next faculty member will be for the program.
Mr. Nic Emmons is ABD in Environmental Studies with an NAS concentration from Ball State University.
Dr. Natchee Barnd gained his degree in Ethnic Studies at UC-San Diego.
Ms. Mascha Gemein is ABD in the American Indian Studies program at the University of Arizona.
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Intertribal News
Come by the Tutor Center and meet their friendly staff who are always willing to help and teach skills that will be useful in your courses.
Midterm Grade Blues? -
There are Many Ways to Get Support By Sharilyn Browning Have you looked at your midterms yet? If yes, then was that grade what you wanted? Was that grade expected and do you think you could have done better? Why and why not? As for myself I know what it is like waiting for grades to be posted and yet hesitate to even check them. Usually it was because the grade was expected or because I just don’t bother for the fact that it’s ‘just’ midterm grades. But viewing your midterm grades is crucial. I learned that the hard way and of course the choices we make are our own and throughout life we learn from our mistakes. It is part of the growing process so it’s not such a terrible thing that we make mistakes because you learn from it the first time and you pick yourself up no matter what. What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger—right? We should know this because we always listen to our grandparents or our elders because they have a life full experience. They have gained so much of knowledge and wisdom which they pass on in hopes that we make good choices. From what choices I made and from that experience, what I would like to pass on is that knowing is better than assuming. Assuming that its ‘just’ midterm grades and assuming you still can pass either way is nonsense. Okay, having confidence that you can pass is great but what’s not great is that ‘assuming’ part. Would it have been better if you knew your grade so that you know what changes to make to your studying style based off that grade? Would it have been better if you finished your work ahead of time so that you can go out for the most of the weekend with friends? Would it have been better to have checked your grade so that you can prepare ahead of time? Would it have been better if you knew your grade so you can finally sleep better? Don’t hesitate any longer to beat around the bush—start changing the habit. There are many ways in finding support here on the beautiful Fort Lewis College campus. Many departments here on campus will help you in any course you seem to have trouble with. Many of which provide a great place to start building your learning and problem solving skills. If you are having difficulty in math then check out the following places on campus: ▪Algebra Alcove located in Jones Hall 147, (right next to Jones computer lab) with Kathy Wellborn as the coordinator. The Algebra Alcove is designed for students enrolled in freshmen mathematics courses in
TRS 82, TRS92, MATH 105, and MATH 110. They provide faculty members and peer tutors to help you with your homework and prepare you for math exams. It’s a huge space that provides a great working environment. Their hours are from Monday through Friday, 9a.m.-5p.m. For more information then contact Algebra Alcove through their phone (970)-247-6392 or (970)-247-7164. Oh yeah—and it’s free to all students. Also, another good place to get math assistance is at the: ▪Mathematics Assistance Center (MAC), located in Berndt Hall 700 with Vera Furst as the coordinator. This center provides help for those enrolled in MATH 113, MATH 121, MATH 221, MATH 222, MATH 223, and above. They also offer both faculty and students drop-in tutoring. The hours vary so be sure to stop by their department and the hours will be posted on the door. For more information call (970)-2477169. And yes this is also free to all students. If you need more help to getting yourself back on track then I suggest the following: ▪The Tutoring Center located in Jones 105B, which is across the Algebra Alcove, with Mathew Krichman as the Coordinator of Academic Success Resources. This department provides tutors to help you in any subject field you may have trouble in. They provide techniques that help you find your learning difficulties and help to make you become a independent learner. They also track your progress so that your learning goal can be reached making your learning skill less confusing. For more information call (970)-247-7434. Of course, there is help for writing your paper at: ▪The Writing Center located in Jones 105C with Gretchen Treadwell as the coordinator and their hours also vary so if you are interested then stop by their department and look on the door to see the posted hours. The Writing Center’s motto is “Building Better Writers” and that’s what they do. They provide peer tutors to help you with any writing assignment, whether it’s projects or short essays, the tutors know where to help you. For more information call (970)382-6934 and this is also free to all students. There are also other departments that offer computers, writing materials, work tables, comfortable couches, and even kitchens, like the following: ▪Native American Center (NAC), located in the Student Union building room 020 with Yvonne Bilinski as the Director. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. they pro-
March 23, 2012 vide academic, cultural, and social support for all Native students attending here at FLC and they also reach out to the larger diversity in the local community and within the Four Corners area. This is a good place to interact with other native students and participate in social activities. They also have kitchen and sometimes have free food out on the table. So if you are interested in making your fried bread, then please do so. If you have any further questions, then call (970)-247-7221. ▪El Centro located in the Student Union building room 040 with Shirena Trujillo-Long as the coordinator. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 9a.m-5p.m. El Centro, also known as El Centro De Muchos Colores (The Center of Many Colors), provide Spanish tutoring a great place to kick back and enjoy lunch with other peers. They are open to any and all interested students. For more information call (970)-247-7654. ▪Program for Academic Advancement (PAA), located at the top of the Reed Library room 308. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30a.m.-7:00 p.m. The PAA offer many ways to build yourself as an independent learner by providing individualized academic advising, study “fests,” social and cultural events, and workshops that help improve any skill that you are interested in or having trouble in (math, writing, study, and computer skills as well as helping you manage your time and money budget skills). This department is funded by the federal government and is mainly to assist first-generation and low-income students and students with disabilities. If interested, then I suggest filling out an application. The PAA is free for those who qualify. For more information call (970)-247-7692. Then of course there is the Reed Library, which we already know the location because they have your required text books put on reserve by your instructors or if not, then order for free through prospector, which usually takes a week. Also their collection of DVD’s are stocking up so if your brain needs a break then stop by the Reed Library and look through the selection. And check out the new book shelf. The Reed Library is a great quiet place to study, read, type, relax and also a good place to take a quick power nap on any of the couches provided but remember it is a library so keep the snoring to a minimal. Personally, I enjoy working in the library where there is peace and quiet and all the texts on shelves or online make your studying more convenient. But the other departments mentioned above are great places to start building yourself back up. I love the fact that if you want to study alone, then there is a place for that. If you want to stream the internet and kick back with other peers, then there is a place for that. If you are wanting to go over notes and eat a quick meal before class, then there is a place for that. So stop sitting around and stop procrastinating. It’s never fun to ‘assume’ you are doing fairly great in class and you can pass last minute either way. There are different types of learning communities that will guide you into becoming a better student now and in the future. It’s better late than never so while there is still time, find out your learning abilities and disabilities so that you know where you need help. Quick now—finals is around the corner and don’t ‘assume’ you’ll do good last minute. Get up and see which department you would like best. The departments mentioned above are just some of few learning communities, and FLC offers many ways in finding support to help you progress academically. Go onto the Fort Lewis College website and click on the A-Z directory and stream around—you never know what you are looking for is just one click away.
March 23, 2012
Intertribal News
Page 7
Denver Broncos Score With Manning
Spring has sprung at FLC! The Student Life Center remains a haven for fitness buffs, athletes and those just hoping to blow off steam. Many will move workouts into the great outdoors, too, as Spring weather offers the chance to “run in the sun.” Check the SLC’s spring intramural schedule for outdoor sports!
Spring: Chance to Renew Fitness Goals By Taryn Yuzos Spring is in the air, so get out there! Along with the spring come great outdoor sports and activities to do with friends and family. The gym, outdoor track, or other sports are good ways to maintain a physical fitness this Spring. Having a muscular toned body is always in season especially, every Spring and Summer as shorts are worn on a regular. Even classes are leaving the fourwalled rooms behind and convening in the amphitheater or grass areas all over campus! There are many different trails that are marked around campus to go for a nature walk and enjoy the great outdoors. Trails are not just limited to campus either, they are located throughout Durango and the outskirts of town, a great way to maintain physical fitness and be a part of the earth. According to Durango.com, there are lists of various trails open to the public for hiking; ranging in levels of distance, hardness and terrain. All of the trails offer a beautiful landscape. The SLC is still a place that many students go to gain muscle or just play sports with friends. The gym sees an average of (?) students per day. The SLC staff is friendly, helpful individuals who are there for any type of help one may need. So go on down to visit a fellow Native American student Robert Clah, an SLC employee! All types of people spend time in the gym here on campus. You may see the football, basketball, softball, track, volleyball, lacrosse, baseball, cyclist
Well known ASU Professor, Dr. James Riding In was on campus last week to help with the NAIS Program Review.
(Skyhawks) stars or the current reigning Miss Hozhoni, Tawnie Knight. Tawnie Knight is frequently seen at the Student Life Center because she says, “In present days, Diabetes is rising among Native peoples and I advocate good health to all Native Americans to harness this disease.” She enjoys the various things that are associated with the SLC and the activities they offer, “for students to do something other than school work, to help them relieve stress or hang with friends”, said Ms. Knight. Intramural sports are constantly a part of the SLC’s attempt to get the students involved on campus. The current sports being played are the “insomniac games” and indoor soccer with signups for March Madness Basketball, 4v4 Volleyball, Kickball, and Ultimate Frisbee. Late March to early April are the final days to get a team together and sign up for these sports. With the deadline coming soon, whip a team together and sign up for some great fun and the chance to meet new people!! For more information on signups, please log on to imleagues.com
By Lloyd Padilla Well, its official football fans, former Indianapolis Colts’ quarterback Peyton Manning agreed to a new deal and contract with the Denver Broncos early this morning. Specific details and negotiations are still currently being discussed. Peyton Manning, the 35 year old quarterback from New Orleans Louisiana was released at the end of the 2012 season by the Colts’ organization after sitting out the entire season with a persistent neck injury. The injury consistently caused neck pain and arm weakness causing him to undergo two neck surgeries. After signing with the Broncos earlier this week, questions arose about what was going to happen to Tim Tebow.Tebow became such a sensation early in his career and earned himself many nicknames including “Tebow Time”. He even established his own trademark pose. Just after a couple of days the questions were answered and Tim Tebow was traded to the New York Jets alongside rising start Quarterback Mark Sanchez. Peyton surprised everyone when he chose to attend the University of Tennessee over Ole Miss where his father and younger brother attended and played football. He completed his degree in three years but returned for his senior year to finish his football career there. Peyton was selected number one overall in the 1998 draft by the Indianapolis Colts. There he earned the honors of Super Bowl champion, Super Bowl MVP, 11 time Pro Bowler and six time AFC Player of the Year. Along with many other accomplishments; Peyton has established himself as one of the elite Quarterbacks in the NFL and after fully recovering from injury, playing in Denver under another all-time great John Elway, we should expect nothing but great things this upcoming season!
Payton Manning with surely replace Tim Tebow as Denver’s starting quarterback, a mixed blessing for many ardent Tebow fans. Denver’s quest for the Superbowl, though, takes on steam with Manning at QB.
Page 8
Intertribal News
March 23, 2012
Wilson Aronilth, Jr. Enlightens Class at FLC
William Mendoza, FLC graduate and now director, White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education, was on campus March 22nd. William visited with students at the Native American Center in this photo.
White House Appointee, FLC Grad -
Bill Mendoza Visits Fort Lewis College By DJ Seeds On Thursday, March 22, 2012, Fort Lewis College greeted one of its’ very prestigious alums, and now huge success within Native American education, Dr. William Mendoza. After graduating from Fort Lewis, Dr. Mendoza continued his education at Montana State University where he received his master’s and doctorate degree. Shortly after, Dr. Mendoza became a high school teacher in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. According to the US Department of Education’s website, or Ed.gov, “In December of 2011, President Obama signed an executive order establishing the White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education. The US Education Secretary, Arne Duncan, appointed Dr. Mendoza to head the initiative.” “We’re working hard to reduce the American Indian and Alaska Native student dropout rate and making sure students who stay in high school are ready to start their career by the time they complete college,” Mendoza said. “The Obama Administration is also committed to strengthening the capacity of TCUs, which play an important role, often serving as anchors in some of the country’s most remote areas.” The campus is both honored and excited to have Dr. Mendoza visit his alma mater and give his presentation entitled, “Educational Opportunities for all American Indian and Alaska Native Students,” which took place at 5:30 PM in the Center of Southwest Studies Lyceum following the reception at 4:45.
By Tina Billie Guest speaker Wilson Aronilth, Jr. recently gave a lecture during Dr. Rick Wheelock’s NAIS Indigenous Philosophy class. Aronilth discussed Dine philosophy and corresponding topics relevant to Shamanism. He provided several handouts entitled: “Holistic Precious Values in Dine Life,” “ Dine Holistic Healing”, “Holistic Understanding of Spiritual SelfHealing,” “Bringing out the Holistic Self,” “Holistic Ceremonies and It’s Values.” He also touched briefly on specific traditional ceremonies such as the Lifeway, the Blessing Way, the Ghostway, and relating the purpose for each. Dr. Aronilth is a faculty member at Dine College, Tsaile campus, in Arizona. Currently, he instructs three, spring semester NIS classes, at the college. The courses include: Navajo Silversmithing (NIS 108), Foundations of Navajo Culture (NIS 111), and Navajo Philosophy (NIS 371). He has written six books, three of which are used in NIS classes today. Information on Aronilth was provided on the WINONA 360 website. It indicated that he “was born for his maternal grandmother the Red House Clan, and for his paternal grandmother, Zuni Red Streak Running into the Water Clan, for his maternal grandfather, Near the Water Clan, and for his paternal grandfather, the Under the Sleeve Clan.” He was raised in the Two Grey Hills area on the Navajo Nation by his grandmother, who, along with extended relations, contributed to his traditional upbringing. Aronilth was taught various aspects of traditional knowledge such as songs and prayers. He serves as a spiritual leader for the Native American Church (NAC) and is regarded by many as an esteemed figure. According to the WINONA 360 blog site, Mr. Aronilth, who was one of five elders selected to be the focus for a student journalism project for students from Winona State University of Minnesota in 2009. At the end of three weeks of filming on the Navajo Nation the students produced a documentary piece on
Enjoy
Hozhoni Days! We’ll see you at the Miss Hozhoni Pageant, the Film showing and the
Hozhoni Days Powwow! - See Page One for the Schedule -
Wilson Aronilth, Jr., was a guest of the NAIS program at FLC March 13th. His stimulating talk about the values of Navajo traditions in this genteration helped students and faculty understand the depth and significance of Dine’ concepts.
the lives of the Dine elders. A reception was scheduled to debut the completed film for public viewing at two designated sites on the Navajo Nation. After, copies of the documentary projects were presented to the N.N. Library and Museum and to Dine College for “cataloging and archiving.” In his lecture, Aronilth elaborated on the Dine traditional concept of “Sa’ ah Naaghai Bikeh Hoozhoon” that is key to a long life and happiness. He broke down the phrase and explained how each word in and of itself carries deeper, interrelated, meanings that are encompassed within the sacred concept. He stressed that traditional teachings are complex to grasp, and that in order for one to fully comprehend sacred concepts, it would take years, or even a lifetime, of intense study, to obtain complete understanding on particular sacred knowledge. A significant point brought up in Aronilth’s talk was his observation that present day many unhealthy relationships are prevalent. He gave an example of his assessment pertaining to young couples today. He observed that many disrespect one another, many of whom are uncommitted to their partner, and many who suffer abuse. Aronilth connects personal selfworth and outlook, including one’s upbringing, are contributing factors at the root of those types of damaging relationships. He attributes the lack of people engaging Dine principles and values as the cause for this due to their “laziness.” He conveyed further, that many people suffer from and are solely responsible for perpetuating mishaps in their lives due to their negative thoughts, attitudes, and behavior. Aronilth stressed this tendency is harmful to one’s overall well-being. In addition, Aronilth expressed one reason relevant to this too common dilemma is a result of the absence of traditional teachings. His opinion is that because many youth do not participate in coming of age ceremonies; which marked a profound moment in the person’s life. Aronilth described the process of such a ritual, stressing how specific kinfolk would assist to guide the youth before, during, and after the occasion. The combination of this form of traditional Dine education and the involvement of key figures, helped to orientate individuals to the proper attitudes, to various significant understandings, and to spiritual awareness. Aronilth related that, one attained personal fulfillment by living according to the values to which they were instructed to remain cognizant of. Brittany Jim is granddaughter to Mr. Aronilth. She is also as student at FLC and majoring in Exercise Science Physiology and minoring in NAIS. She obtained in 2010, an AA degree from Dine College, and was awarded summa cum laude honors. Her career goal is to become a physical therapist due to Jim’s fascination with the complexity of the human anatomy. Jim conveyed how significant her grandfather’s influence has been in her life, “He is the most positive person I know. He is patient, kind, generous, and we also depend on him spiritually. He encourages us to always know our identity, live a clean healthy life spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally.” In conclusion, Mr. Aronilth’s presentation was enlightening. The message he regularly expresses to students is reassuring. The website, WINONA 360 asserts that Aronilth often conveys, “you’re my generation, you’re my children, you’re my future leaders…I’m here to try and do what I can to support you and give you a little advice or guidance in your life in the way of education. I think you’re unique, special, and intelligent.”